UMTS Networks and Beyond (eBook)

An all-encompassing coverage on UMTS Networks including an
in-depth discussion of current work on UMTS evolution and 4G .

UMTS Networks and Beyond offers a comprehensive
introduction to the networking aspects of UMTS and the networks
coming after UMTS. The book is unique in that it systematically
compares how a particular problem, e.g. obtaining connectivity, is
solved in UMTS and how the same problem is solved in a Computer
Network such as the Internet. It also highlights why the respective
solutions are so different.

The first part of the book provides a detailed technical
discussion of UMTS, including original vision, architecture,
protocol stacks and overall functionality. It places UMTS in the
context of its evolution of from GSM and its convergence with
Computer Networks. The second part of the book discusses
today's vision of 4G, and introduces upcoming networking
technologies. Emphasis is on LTE / SAE as successor of UMTS; UMB,
WiMAX and NGN are also discussed. The book gives an overview of
what these technologies are likely to offer, of their
architectures, protocols and functionality. It also discusses their
differences and similarities, and whether they will qualify as
4G.

Key Features:

* Provides readers, particularly those with a background in
IP-based networks, with a technical understanding of what UMTS
does, how it works and how it is likely to evolve

* Explains the differences in design between UMTS Networks and
Computer Networks and discusses how these design divergences can be
reconciled in the future

* Shows how economic considerations shape the design of UMTS

* Motivates why particular design choices are made in UMTS

* Gives an in-depth introduction to LTE / SAE

* Provides a detailed picture of the state of the art in 4G

* Illustrates the theory with numerous tables and figures

This comprehensive textbook is essential reading for advanced
students and lecturers in communications systems and networking. It
is also of interest to engineers and researchers in the field of
UMTS and communications systems.