GSM data services:

The course is designed for those who are, or intend to be, involved in the planning, installation, provisioning or maintenance of GSM systems, particularly GPRS (General Packet Radio Systems) and related services.

Prerequisites:

Before studying this course you should have clear understanding of GSM networks used for telephony. The PTT online course MBC: 'GSM principles' covers this subject and we strongly recommend that you complete MBC before continuing with this course.
A background knowledge of data communications is also desirable. If you are new to data communications we suggest you study the PTT course TransNet A: 'Introduction to Wide Area Networks'.

Course Aim:

This course describes the provision of data services by GSM mobile systems with reference to EDGE, GPRS, HSCSD and SMS.

Course objectives :

At the end of this course, the trainee will be able to:

Compare the conventional GSM data transfer facility with that provided by HSCSD.

Describe the impact of all-IP architectures on GSM data services.

Describe the principles of operation of, and the facilities provided by, a Small Message Service (SMS).

Describe the components, operation and facilities of a General Packet Radio Service (GPRS).

Explain how mobility management (MM) in GPRS differs from MM in GSM with reference to the concept of Routing Areas.

Explain how data transfer rates for GSM systems can be increased by the use of different modulation techniques with reference to GMSK modulation in GSM and GPRS systems and the modulation techniques used by EDGE systems.

Compare the various means of accessing the Internet using mobile stations and explain the role and limitations of the Wireless Application Protocol (WAP).

Number of modules: 7
Approximate study time: 8 hours