02 GO - NAST3010 - E01 - 0 2G-3G Cell Reselection and Handover-49p

2G-3G Cell Reselection & Handover
Contents
1 An Introduction to the Reselections and Handovers Related to 2/3G Interoperability ......................... 1
Abstract........................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 The Preconditions of the Realization of Interoperability ...................................................................... 1
1.2 The Parameters Involved in the Interoperability ................................................................................... 1
2 The Reselections and Handovers between GSM and WCDMA ................................................................ 3
2.1 Strategies for Dual-mode Terminals to Reside in a Network ............................................................... 3
2.2 PLMN Selection ...................................................................................................................................... 3
2.3 A Brief Introduction to the Inter-system Cell Reselection between GSM and WCDMA................... 6
2.3.1 Cell Reselection at an Idle State (GSM->WCDMA)................................................................. 6
2.3.2 PS Cell Reselection (GSM->WCDMA) ................................................................................... 10
2.3.3 The Reference Values for the Configurations of the Key Reselection Parameters ................ 13
2.3.4 Network-controlled Cell Reselections (GSM->WCDMA) ..................................................... 14
2.3.5 The Triggering Conditions of Cell Reselections ...................................................................... 19
2.3.6 iBSC Informs MS that It Should Carry Out the Cell Reselection through PCCO Message .21
2.3.7 Network Assisted Cell Change （GSM->WCDMA） .......................................................... 24
2.4 The Cell Handover between 2G and 3G System ................................................................................. 26
2.4.1 The Parameters Related to CS Service Switching (GSM->WCDMA) .................................. 26
2.4.2 The Algorithm of CS Service Switching (GSM->WCDMA) ................................................. 34
2.4.3 How to Process the Measurement Reports from MS ............................................................... 35
2.4.4 The Directed Retry Handover Process...................................................................................... 39
2.4.5 CS Service Handover (WCDMA->GSM) ................................................................................ 41
2.4.6 PS Handover ............................................................................................................................... 43
2.5 An Introduction to the Interoperation between GSM and WCDMA ................................................. 43
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2.5.1 The Interoperation Items Supported by ZTE GSM/WCDMA ................................................43
3 Appendixes .......................................................................................................................................................45
3.1 GSM Protocol Reference ......................................................................................................................45
3.2 Other Parameters and Explanations Related to the Interoperation .....................................................45
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1 An Introduction to the Reselections and
Handovers Related to 2/3G Interoperability
Abstract
The definition of the interoperability of GSM network and 3G network: It is mainly
about how a GSM/3G dual mode MS manages to reside in a network or reselect a
network at an idle state or how it manages to complete the inter-system reselection or
handover at a connection state when both GSM network and 3G network are available.
1.1 The Preconditions of the Realization of Interoperability

Some conditions should be satisfied in order to realize the reselections and handovers
between the GSM system and 3G system.
Here are the preconditions:
The definition/configuration of the external neighbor cells;
The configuration of reselection/handover parameters;
The increase of system messages;
Some items related to the enabling/disabling of some other functions, which derserve
some special attention.
1.2 The Parameters Involved in the Interoperability

Some parameters should be set for the interoperability. The definitions of the
parameters vary with the actual technologies adopted by the access network.
Here the parameters which are involved in the interoperation between GSM system and
WCDMA system or between GSM system and TD-SCDMA system are listed in the
following two attachments respectively.
Similarly, some relevant pramaters are also involved in the interoperation between
GSM system and TD-SCDMA system. Since the definitions and values of most of the
parameters are the same, only the main parameters are listed.
1
2 The Reselections and Handovers
between GSM and WCDMA
2.1 Strategies for Dual-mode Terminals to Reside in a Network

For WCDMA subscribers, if they are given the priority to reside in WCDMA network,
they can fully enjoy the new services provided by WCDMA, especially those services
which GSM can not provide. For example, videophone, HSPA service, concurrent
services, and so on. Besides, when WCDMA is initially established, the network
capacity is not large. Therefore, if the subscribers are given the priority to choose the
WCDMA network first, it helps to reduce the capacity pressures of GSM network. On
the other hand, if the subscribers are given the priority to reside in the GSM network
first, it is possible to make full use of the resources which the GSM network can
already provide.
From the perspective of the realization of the scheme, there are two ways to make
subscribers have the priority to reside in the WCDMA network first: PLMN reselection
and cell reselection. Currently, cell reselection is preferred by the major carriers. It
takes a short time to return back to WCDMA from GSM, and the user experience is
good. However, PLMN reselection is suitable for the carriers who have many
difficulties in changing the existing GSM network. So this method is not used a lot.
2.2 PLMN Selection

The scheme named “the selection of PLMN” means that different PLMN identifiers
should be adopted for WCDMA network and GSM network. (In other words, different
MCC+MNC should be used for them.) Since a dual mode terminal needs to select a
PLMN when it is powered on or is at the roaming state, it is possible that a dual mode
UE can be given a priority to reside in a certain system by configuring the SIM card of
a UE with different HPLMNs (or EPLMNs).
Here is a description of the principles:
When MS is powered on or is at the roaming state, MS will manage to gain an access

to a PLMN network, and it will select a PLMN by making a search automatically or
manually. After it chooses a PLMN, MS will manage to find out an appropriate cell
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from the PLMN to reside in and make a registration. This is called the selection of
PLMN.
If the MS is at the idle state, it will manage to reside in a more appropriate cell through
cell reselection in order to get a better service. The cell reselection which involves
different PLMNs only occurs when the original PLMN has quite poor signals, and the
MS does not have an access to the network any longer. Then, in this case, it will make
a registration in a cell of another PLMN. This is called PLMN reselection.
PLMN selection/reselection can be completed automatically or manually. When it

selects a network automatically, MS will choose a PLMN according to the priority of
the PLMN list which is kept in the SIM card. However, when it selects a network
manually, all the currently available networks will be shown to the subscriber, and the
subscriber can choose one PLMN.
Different types of PLMNs enjoy different levels of priority. When a terminal chooses a
PLMN, it will observe the following order.
1. RPLMN 和 EPLMN; RPLMN and EPLMN;
2. HPLMN;
3. UPLMN;
4. OPLMN;
5. Other PLMNs;
PLMN reseletion occurs in the following two situations:
1. Under any circumstances, the subscribers can originate the PLMN reselection
manually.
2. The network reselection which occurs when the subscribers make a registration
in VPLMN (Visited PLMN): The subscribers may make a registration in
VPLMN due to a handover/roaming and the like. Since VPLMN and HPLMN
have the same MCC, but different MNCs, MS can make a judgement and
manages to return back to its home network. Specifically speaking, the MS will
search the home network periodically (The specific period will be decided by
USIM, ranging from 6 minutes to 8 hours.).
The subscribers can return to WCDMA network from GSM network through PLMN
reselection. If it is expected that the subscribers of GSM network can select WCDMA
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Chapter 2 1BThe Reselections and Handovers between GSM and WCDMA
network automatically as the first priority when they move to the areas covered by
WCDMA network, it is suggested that WCDMA network and GSM network can be set
as different PLMNs. Set WCDMA as HPLMN in USIM. The time for the selection can
be deciced by the carriers. The roaming between different networks can be realized
through the PLMN reselectin algorithm without the upgrading of GSM network.
The advantage of this scheme is that no alterations need to be made for GSM network.
Its disadvantage is that the two networks can not work together well in a
complementary way, the inter-system switching between CS and PS can not be realized,
and the inter-system cell reselection can not be realized. Besides, there will be “6
minutes time lag” (That is, after a UE resides in GSM network, it takes at least 6
minutes for it to return back to WCDMA network.).
Glossary
1. RPLMN (Registered PLMN): The PLMN where the recent registration is made
successfully. It records the information like LA, RA, and so on, which is kept in
the EFLOCI and EFPSLOCI files of the USIM card.
2. EPLMN (Equivalent PLMN): Equivalent PLMN means that the services

provided by this PLMN are the same as those provided by the home network.
3. HPLMN (Home PLMN): This is the home network number which set on USIM
card when the subscriber opens an account. It can be obtained from the EFIMSI
file of the USIM card.
4. UPLMN (User controlled PLMN): The PLMN is controlled by the users. It can
not be modified on the air interface. Currently, it is not used in 2G.
5. OPLMN (Operator Controlled PLMN): The PLMN is controlled by the carriers.

It exists in SIM and USIM beforehand. Currently, it is not used in 2G.
6. VPLMN (Visited PLMN): It refers to the PLMN of the cell which the MS
currently resides in.
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2.3 A Brief Introduction to the Inter-system Cell Reselection

between GSM and WCDMA
The inter-system cell reselection refers to the following two situations: Cell reselection
from GSM to WCDMA and cell reselection from WCDMA to GSM.
If the cell reselection is from WCDMA to GSM, no alterations need to be made on the
GSM side except NACC (Network Assited Cell Change).
2.3.1 Cell Reselection at an Idle State (GSM->WCDMA)
Here are the procedures and major parameters related to the cell reselection from GSM
to WCDMA at an idle state:
1. The system message SI2quater (and SI2ter), which GSM delivers on BCCH or
expanded BCCH, describes the WCDMA neighbor cell list and the cell
reselection control parameters. However, whether BTS is required to deliver the
message on BCCH or expanded BCCH can be set by the OMCR parameters.
Among these cell reselection control parameters, one of the major parameters is
Qsearch_I, which controls the neighbor cell measurement and reselection
process when UE is at an idle state. (3GPP 44.018)
Here is the definition of Qsearch_I:
Table 2-1 The Definition of Qsearch_I

Parameter name Meaning Value range
Search for 3G cells if signal level is below (0-7) or above (8-15)
threshold
0 = - 98 dBm, 1 = - 94 dBm, … ,
Qsearch_I 6 = - 74 dBm, 7 = ∞ (always) 0-15
8 = - 78 dBm, 9 = - 74 dBm, … ,
14 = - 54 dBm, 15 = ∞ (never).
Default value = ∞ (never).
If Qsearch_I is configured as 7, MS will always do measurements for the adjacent

WCDMA cells. If Qsearch_I is configured as 15, MS will never do measurements for
the adjacent WCDMA cells. When Qsearch_I is configured as 0～6 (For example, the
configuration is 0.), the measurement for the adjacent WCDMA cells will not be started
unless the received signal level RLA_C of the current GSM cell is lower than the given
threshold Qsearch_I (If the configuration is 0, the threshold is -98dBm.). If Qsearch_I
is configured as 8～14 (For example, the configuration is 8), the measurement for the
adjacent WCDMA cells will not be started unless the received signal level RLA_C of
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the current GSM cell is higher than the given threshold Qsearch_I (If the configuration
is 8, the threshold is -78dBm.).
1. If the adjacent WCDMA cells meet the requirements for search, MS will start to
decode and measure the CPICH(Common Pilot Channel) of WCDMA cells
according to the content of the parameters received from SI2quater (and SI2ter).
2. Besides, for every 5 seconds, the MS should update the field strength RLA_C of
the GSM serving cell and the received signal levels of 6 non-serving GSM cells
which have the strongest received signal levels (including GSM cells and
WCDMA cells).
3. If the measurement for WCDMA cells is needed (That is, the configuration of
Qsearch_I is not 15), the GSM sysem message SI 2quater or SI 2ter should
include the parameter FDD_Qoffset and FDD_Qmin. Here are the definitions of
the parameters.
Table 2-2 The Definition of FDD_Qoffset

Applies an offset to RLA_C for cell re-selection to access
technology/mode XXX (one or more)
XXX_Qoffset 0 = - ∞ (always select a cell if acceptable), 0-15
1 = -28 dB, 2 = -24 dB, … , 15 = 28 dB.
Default value = 0 dB.
When the configuration of FDD_Qoffset is 0, it means that a WCDMA cell will be

selected as long as its signals can be searched out.
Table 2-3 The Definition of FDD_Qmin

A minimum threshold for Ec/No for UTRAN FDD cell
re-selection,
FDD_Qmin 0= -20dB, 1= -6dB, 2= -18dB, 3= -8dB, 4= -16dB, 5= -10dB, 6= 0-7
-14dB, 7= -12dB.
Default value= -12dB.
The two parameters control the inter-system cell reselection process. When the
measurement for WCDMA cells is carried out for some time, MS will get the RSCP
value (or RSSI value) or Ec/No value of CPICH, and it will make a comparison
between this value and the reselection parameter FDD_Qoffse and FDD_Qmin. Here is
the algorithm: If a UE satisfies the following 4 conditions at the same time, it can make
a reselection and can be connected to the UTRAN neighbor cells.
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1) RSCP >= FDD_Qoffset + RLA_C. That is, RSCP of the neighbor cell is higher
than the average received signal level RLA_C of the current cell.
2) RSCP >= FDD_Qoffset + RLA_n. That is, RSCP of the neighbor cell is higher
than RLA_C of any GSM neighbor cell by at least FDD_Qoffset (FDD
reselection offset). Besides, this situation should last for more than 5 seconds (If
a cell reselection already happens in the previous 15 seconds, FDD_Qoffset
needs an increase of 5dB to avoid ping-pong reselections.).
3) Ec/No >= FDD_Qmin-FDD_Qmin_Offset. That is, Ec/No of the neighbor cell is

larger than or is equal to the FDD_Qmin-FDD_Qmin_Offset which is required
by the cell.
4) RSCP>= FDD_RSCP_threshold.
FDD_RSCP_threshold ＝ FDD_RSCPmin – min((P_MAX – 21 dBm), 3 dB),

if FDD_RSCPmin is broadcasted. Otherwise, Qrxlevmin + Pcompensation + 10
dB will be adopted if the parameters are valid. However, if the parameters are
not valid, FDD_RSCPmin will be adopted.
Qrxlevmin means the minimum received signal level required by the UTRAN
cell.
Pcompensation＝max(UE_TXPWR_MAX_RACH – P_MAX, 0) (dB)
P_MAX is the maximum transmission power of UE.
If more than one UTRAN cell satisifies the conditions mentioned above, the cell
which has the maximum RSCP will be selected.
4. If a WCDMA neighbor cell satisfies the conditions, the WCDMA neighbor cell
will be selected during the reselection.
Note:
The two parameters FDD_RSCPmin and FDD_Qmin_Offset are added when 3GPP R6
version is released. Currently, we still do not support the two parameters.
For ZTE iBSC, the following items should be configured at OMCR to support
the cell reselection function at an idle state.
· The configuration of WCDMA neighbor cells: First, the configuratin of the

UTRAN external cells should be completed, and it involves a series of
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parameters, including CellTypeUTRAN, MCC, MNC, LAC, C_Id of UTRAN

neighbor cells, ArfcnUTRAN, RNC_Id which the UTRAN neighbor cells
belong to, RAC, FDD scrambling or TDD cell parameters (ScCodeCellPara), the
transmission diversity adoptd by the UTRAN neighbor cells (DiverSity), and so
on.
· The configuration of Qsearch_I: It should correspond to the OMCR parameter

Qsearch_I. (UE enables the measurement threshold of the UTRAN reselection
cells.)
· The configuration of SI2quater: Whether SI2quater message is delivered on

BCCH or expanded BCCH can be set up through the configuration. Besides, the
corresponding OMCR parameter is SI2QuaterPos (It refers to channel where
SI2quater is broadcasted.).
· The configuration of FDD_Qoffset and FDD_Qmin: It corresponds to the

OMCR parameter FDD_Qoffset (FDD reselecton offset) and FDD_Qmin (the
minimum Ec/No value of UTRAN reselection cells).
The following principles should be observed when the inter-system cell

reselection at an idle state is started in the areas which are covered by both GSM
network and WCDMA network.
· The field strength principle: For GSM subscribers, they will not choose a
WCDMA network when they need a reselection unless the field strength of the
WCDMA system is stable. Generally speaking, the field strength principle
should be the first priority for the weak coverage areas which are covered by
WCDMA or the border areas which are covered by both WCDMA network and
GSM network.
· The efficiency principle: If the field strength principle is satisfied, it is suggested

that the reselection which ends up in a WCDMA network should be started as
soon as possible. The purpose is to provide a quality service for the subscribers.
Generally speaking, the efficiency principle should be the first priority for the
areas which are covered by WCDMA in a continuous way.
· The battery energy saving principle: It consumes a lot of electricity for a dual
mode terminal to carry out the measurements for inter-system signals. Therefore,
how to save the battery energy should be taken into full consideration when
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some areas are covered by two networks.
2.3.2 PS Cell Reselection (GSM->WCDMA)
If BSS supports PBCCH channel, BSS can send the relevant inter-system cell
reselection parameters (the information of 3G neighbor cells, cell reselection
measurement and control parameters) to MS through the system message PSI 3 quarter.
These parametes will be used for PS cell reselection process of the MS.
If BSS does not support PBCCH or it is not configured with PBCCH, BSS can send the
relevant inter-system cell reselection parameters (the information of 3G neighbor cells,
cell reselection measurement and control parameters) to MS through Packet Cell
Change Order or Packet Measurement Order.
For other situations, when the PS service of MS is available, the cell reselection
strategies which are used at an idle state should be adopted.
Here is a brief description of PS cell reselectin process when PBCCH is supported.
PS cell reselection process which is from GSM to WCDMA:
1. In the message PSI 3quater, which is broadcasted by the system and is delivered
on PBCCH (or PACCH), GSM gives a description of the list of adjacent
WCDMA neighbor cells, the search conditions, and the cell reselection
parameters. Among the cell reselection parameters, Qsearch_P,
FDD_GPRS_Qoffset and FDD_Qmin are the key parameters.
Table 2-4 The Definition of Qsearch_P

Search for 3G cells if signal level below threshold (0-7):
- 98, - 94, … , - 74 dBm, ∞ (always)
Qsearch_P or above threshold (8-15): 0-15
- 78, - 74, … , - 54 dBm, ∞ (never).
Default value = ∞ (never).
If Qsearch_P is configured as 7, MS will always do measurements for the

adjacent WCDMA cells. If Qsearch_P is configured as 15, MS will never do
measurements for the adjacent WCDMA cells. When Qsearch_P is configured as
0～6 (For example, the configuration is 0.), the measurement for the adjacent
WCDMA cells will not be started unless the received signal level RLA_P of the
current GSM cell is lower than the given threshold Qsearch_P (If the
configuration is 0, the threshold is -98dBm.). If Qsearch_P is configured as 8～
10
14 (For example, the configuration is 8), the measurement for the adjacent
WCDMA cells will not be started unless the received signal level RLA_P of the
current GSM cell is higher than the given threshold Qsearch_P (If the
configuration is 8, the threshold is -78dBm.).
2. If adjacent WCDMA neighbor cells satisfy the search conditions, MS will start
the decoding and measurements for CPICH (Common Pilot Channel). Besides,
for every 5 seconds, the MS should update the RLA_P of the serving cell and
the received signal levels of 6 non-serving GSM cells which have the strongest
received signal levels (including GSM cells and WCDMA cells).
3. If the measurements for WCDMA cells are to be started (That is, the
configuration of Qsearch_P is not 15.), the parameter FDD_GPRS_Qoffset and
FDD_Qmin should be included in Packet System information type 3quater of
GSM.
Table 2-5 FDD_GPRS_Qoffset

Parameter name Meaning Range value
Applies an offset to RLA_P for cell re-selection to access
technology/mode XXX (one or more),
XXX_GPRS_Qoffs
0 = - ∞ (always select a cell if acceptable), 0-15
et
1 = -28 dB, 2 = -24 dB, … , 15 = 28 dB.
Default value = 0 dBm.
When the configuration of FDD_GPRS_Qoffset is 0, it means that a WCDMA

cell will be selected as long as its signals can be searched out.
FDD_GPRS_Qoffset and FDD_Qmin control the inter-system cell reselection

process. When the measurement for WCDMA cells is carried out for some time,
MS will get the RSCP value (or RSSI value) or Ec/No value of CPICH, and it
will make a comparison between this value and the reselection parameter
FDD_GPRS_Qoffset and FDD_Qmin. Here is the algorithm: If a UE satisfies
the following 4 conditions at the same time and the situation lasts for more than
5 seconds, it can make a reselection and can be connected to the UTRAN
neighbor cells.
1) RSCP >= RLA_P. That is, RSCP of the current neighbor cell is higher than the
average received signal level RLA_P of the current cell.
2) RSCP >= FDD_GPRS_Qoffset + RLA_n. That is, RSCP of the current neighbor
cell is higher than RLA_P of any GSM neighbor cell by at least
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FDD_GPRS_Qoffset (FDD reselection offset). Besides, this situation should last

for more than 5 seconds (If a cell reselection already happens in the previous 15
seconds, FDD_GPRS_Qoffset needs an increase of 5dB to avoid ping-pong
reselections.).
3) RSCP>= FDD_RSCP_threshold. That is, RSCP of the current neighbor cell

should be higher than the required FDD_RSCP_threshold.
4) Ec/No >= FDD_Qmin - FDD_Qmin_Offset. That is, Ec/No of the current

neighbor cell should be larger than or is equal to the FDD_Qmin required by the
cell and it should be larger than or equal to the configuration of offset.
FDD_RSCP_threshold ＝ FDD_RSCPmin – min((P_MAX – 21 dBm), 3 dB)

Qrxlevmin refers to the minimum received signal level required for the UTRAN
cell.
P_MAX refers to the maximum transmission power of UE.
4. If the adjacent WCDMA neighbor cells satisfy the conditions, an adjacent

WCDMA neighbor cell will be selected during the reseletion.
For ZTE iBSC, the following items should be configured at OMCR to support
the PS cell reselection funtion.
· In order to support this function, first of all, the relevant switch “PSReselPara2”
should be turned on at OMCR.
· The configuration of Qsearch_P: It is corresponding to the OMCR parameter

Qsearch_P (the threshold for UE to start the measurement of GPRS 3G
reselection cells). It should be noticed that there are two Qsearch _P parameters
at OMCR, which are corresponding to packet idle state and packet transmission
state respectively. In the database, Qsearch_P is a kind of built-up field. Here is
its structure: Qsearch_P_0+ Qsearch_P_1. It is built up according to the
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character strings.
· Different triggering conditions can be created through the configurations of

FDD_GPRS_Qoffset, FDD_RSCPmin, FDD_Qmin, and FDD_Qmin_Offset.
The corresponding parameter at OMCR are FDD_GPRS_Qoffset_0/1 (FDD
GPRS reselection offset, 0 refers to an idle state, 1 refers to a transmission state),
FDD_RSCPminPS (the minimum value of RSCP for PS of UTRAN reselection
cells), FDD_QminPS_0/1 (the minimum value of Ec/No for PS of UTRAN
reselection cells), and FDD_QminOffsetPS_0/1 (FDD_QminPS offset).
The following principles should be observed when the PS inter-system cell

reselection is started in the areas which are covered by both GSM network and
WCDMA network.
· The principles mentioned above, which are related to the “cell reselection at an
idle state”, should be observed. Specifically speaking, they are the field strength
principle, the efficiency principle, and the battery energy saving principle.
· Besides, the principle of service quality should also be taken into consideration.
That is, when PS service is available, stricter reselection principles shold be
adopted so as to ensure that the PS service can be provided in a continuous way.
2.3.3 The Reference Values for the Configurations of the Key Reselection
Parameters
Here are the configurations of the key parametes of the current inter-system reselection
parameters:
NO. English name Default

value
1 SI2QuaterPos 0
2 ReportTypeCS 1
3 Qsearch_I 7
4 FDD_Qmin 0
5 FDD_Qoffset 8
Notes:
Qsearch_I: Generally speaking, for the cells where the interoperation is expected, the
inter-system measurements will never stop from the moment the handset enters the
current cell. As long as the signals of the 3G system can meet the requirements for the
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MS to reside in, the system will be selected during the reselection. Therefore, the
configuration of the parameter should be 7.
FDD_Qmin: Usually, the carriers hope that the inter-system ping-pong reselections can
be reduced so as to relieve the system load which is caused by the repetitive
inter-system reselections. Therefore, the carriers require that the requirements for the
reselection from GSM system to 3G system shoul be stricter while the configuration of
the threshold for the reselection from 3G system to GSM system should be lower. The
purpose is to reduce the inter-system ping-pong reselections through the configurations
of the thresholds for entering either of the two systems. Besides, it helps to ensure that
the signals can meet the requirements when the reselection is from GSM system to 3G
system. However, if this method is used, it is quite possible that the time during which
the handset subscribers can reside in the 3G network will be reduced dramatically
when the 3G network is just established or when the coverage is not sufficient.
Whethter to widen the difference of the reselection threshold of the two systems
depends on the coveage conditions of the 3G network and the DT test results.
FDD_Qoffset: The value range of the parameter is -28dB~28dB (The configuration of

the range of the parameter is 0~15.). Therefore, if the value is 8, the corresponding
value is 0dB, which means that RSCP of the adjacent 3G cells is equal to the highest
RLA_C value of the current GSM cell and that of the GSM neighbor cells. However, if
the signal transmission features of the 3G system are taken into consideration, it can be
noticed that its transmission power and coverage are quite different from those of the
GSM system. Therefore, the configuration of the parameter should take into
consideration the features of the specific environment. Actually, the value 8 can be
regarded as an initial value, but the specific configuration should be completed
according to the actual coverage conditions of the 3G network and the extent to which
the relevant services can be supported. Generally speaking, when the network is just
established, we should ensure that the subscribers can reside in the 3G network as
much as possible. In this sense, the configuration can be relatively small, for example,
6, and 7.
2.3.4 Network-controlled Cell Reselections (GSM->WCDMA)
Different from the cell reselection which is originated by MS, the network can require
that the MS should report measurement reports and the cell reselection method should
be controlled by the network. The short form for Network controlled Cell Reselection
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is NCCR. This method depends on “Network_ Control_Order”. The meaning of this

parameter varies with different values. Here are the details:
Table 2-6 Different Options of “Network_ Control_Order” and the Corresponding Meanings
The value of Network_

Meaning The operations carried out by MS
Control_Order
The normal MS
NC0 MS will carry out the automatic cell reselection.
control
MS control with
MS will send the measurement reports to the network and then
NC1 measurement
continue to carry out the cell reselection.
reports
MS will send measurement reports to the network, and will carry out
the cell reselection only according to the cell reselection command of
NC2 Network control the network. MS will not carry out a cell reselection autonomous
unless the cell reselection is triggered when the downlink signaling
fails or when MS fails to send the random access.
If the NCCR function is enabled (Network controlled Cell Reselection), ZTE iBSC
allows that the cell reselection of PS service can adopt the “packet idle state” and the
“packet transmission state” with different cell reselection parameters. Here are the
details:
1. A set of cell reselection control parameters is adopted by the PSI 3quater

message broadcasted on PBCCH, which includes Qsearch_P,
FDD_GPRS_Qoffset, FDD_Qmin, FDD_Qmin_Offset and so on. These
parameters will be used during the cell reselection process of UE when it is at
the packet idle state.
2. If UE is at the packet transmission state and it supports NCCR, BSS can tell
another set of parameters to UE by sending the Packet Cell Change Order (The
new parameters are valid in the reselection cells.) or the Packet Measurement
Order (The new parameters will cover the original parameters.) on PACCH.
2.3.4.1 The Conditions which Are Needed to Support NC2
In order to support NCCR (Network controlled Cell Reselection),

Network_Control_Order is sent through the system message PSI5 on PBCCH or the
SI13 message and SI2quater message on BCCH or the PSI13 message on PACCH.
Besides, BSS can make use of Network_Control_Order which is included in PACKET
15
MEASUREMENT ORDER or PACKET CELL CHANGE ORDER to make MS carry

out the NCCR process. Here are the details:
1. If the cell is configured with PBCCH, Network_Control_Order will be sent to

MS through the packekt system message 5 (PSI5).
2. If the cell is not configured with PBCCH, iBSC will send the parameter
NETWORK_CONTROL_ORDER through the system message SI13 on BCCH
or it will send the parameter NETWORK_CONTROL_ORDER through the
packet system message PSI13 on PACCH. Besides, if the cell is not configured
with PBCCH, iBSC can send the cell reselection parameters to a certain MS
through Packet Measurement Order or Packet Cell Change Order.
2.3.4.2 The Similarities and Differences of Different Reselection Processes
There are no differences between the NC0 process and the cell reselection process
which is originated by MS. Except for the measurement reports which are sent on a
regular basis, the MS cell reselection process of NC1 is the same as the cell reselection
process which is originated by MS. If the method NC1 or NC2 is used, BSS will decide
how often a measurement report should be delivered during the cell reselection of MS
through NC_REPORTING_PERIOD_I, NC_REPORTING_PERIOD_T, and
NC_NON_DRX_PERIOD (Similar to Network_Control_Order, the parameters are
sent through PSI5 or the message SI13, and SI2quater). Among these,
NC_REPORTING_PERIOD_I is related to the reporting period of the measurement
reports when UE is at the packet idle state. However, NC_REPORTING_PERIOD_T is
related to the reporting period of the measurement reports when UE is at the packet
transmission state. When UE is under NC2 mode, it enters the stage of NC2 non_DRX
mode after it sends an NC measurement report to iBSC. The length of time is decided
by the parameter NC_NON_DRX_PERIOD. If UE does not receive the parameter
NC_NON_DRX_PERIOD, NC_REPORTING_PERIOD_I, and
NC_REPORTING_PERIOD_T, UE will adopt the default measurement report period.
Actually, UE will use its own timer T3158 as the measurement report period.
The advantage of NC2 technology: First, it can make full use of the information
provided by the network to make a reasonable judgment so as to make a good
allocation of the services within the network; second, it can help to reduce the invalid
cell reselections which are started automatically by MS at a high frequency. In this way,
the TBF data transmission will be more efficient.
16
Since NC2 mode makes a greater contribution to the TBF transmission efficiency when
UE is at the packet transmission state, NC2 mode with a packet idle state is not
supported when iBSC is designed. In other words, NC2 will only be used when UE is
at the packet transmission state. However, when UE is at the packet idle state, NC0 or
NC1 will be adopted.
Therefore, usually, iBSC will not set NETWORK_CONTROL_ORDER as NC2 in

PSI5 of PBCCH or in message SI13, and SI2quater of BCCH. However, it will only
enable NC2 by sending the PMO message on PACCH, whose
NETWORK_CONTROL_ORDER is NC2.
2.3.4.3 How to Process the NC2 Measurement Reports
Since NC2 has something to do with the processing of the measurement reports within
BSS and the selection of cells during the reselection process, it is a bit complicated
when it is compared with NC0 and NC1. Here is a brief description of the NC2
process.
How to process the measurement reports:
If the NETWORK_CONTROL_ORDER received by UE is NC1 or NC2, the neighbor

cell measurements will be started according to the parameters broadcasted by BSS and
the measurement reports will be sent to BSS periodically.
Under the NC2 mode, when iBSC receives the measurement reports from MS (The
measurement reports are obtained from the Packet Measurement Report message, or
Packet Downlink Ack/Nack, or EGPRS Packet Downlink Ack/Nack, which are sent by
MS.), it will store and calculate the weighted average of the RXLEV values of the
serving cell and the adjacent GSM cells, the RSCP values or EcNo values of the
adjacent 3G cells. Besides, it will preprocess the uplink of the MS when it is at the
packet transmission state, the downlink quality RXQUAL of GPRS or the average bit
error rate of the downlink of EGPRS TBF.
The reporting period of the packet measurement reports is long, and it is possible that
the intervals between the reports are not consistent. For example, if one measurement
report is missed, the weighted average algorithm will adopt different weight
coefficients for the existing measurement reports and the latest measurement reports in
the moving window according to the different reporting time. In principle, the longer
the interval between the latest measurement reports and the existing reports is, the
17
smaller the weight coefficient is or the smaller the influence is over the average value.
In the same measurement report, the weight coefficient of the serving cell is the same
as that of the neighbor cells. In other words, although the same processing method, that
is, moving average, is used for the processing of the measurement reports or the
Measurement Report or EMR messages of CS handover, the factor coefficients are
involved when the original measurement values are calculated. Besides, the size of the
moving window is set at OMCR independently.
MS can report the measurement reports of the adjacent WCDMA cells in two ways,
that is, RSCP and EcNo. However, whether to adopt the RSCP method or the EcNo
method depends on the description of the parameter FDD_REP_QUANT in the
downlink message of BSS (For example, PSI5, PSI3quater, PCCO, and PMO).
Table 2-7 The Definition of FDD_REP_QUANT

Value Default
Parameter name Meaning
range value
FDD_REP_QUA Indicates the reporting quantity for UTRAN FDD cells,
0/1 1
NT 0 = RSCP, 1 = Ec/No
Besides, BSS can control the reporting priority of the cells which are reported by MS
through the parameter REPORTING_THRESHOLD and
FDD_REPORTING_OFFSET in the downlink message. Here are the specific
meanings of the two parameters:
Table 2-8 The Definition of the Parameter REPORTING_THRESHOLD and
FDD_REPORTING_OFFSET
Value Defaul
range t value
Apply priority reporting if the reported value is
above threshold for GSM frequency band or access
XXX_REPORTING_THRE
technology/mode XXX (one or more), 0-7 3
SHOLD
0, 6, … , 36, ∞ (never).
Default value = always.
Apply an offset to the reported value when
prioritising the cells for reporting for GSM frequency
XXX_REPORTING_OFFS band or access technology/mode XXX (one or
0-7 3
ET more),
0, 6, … , 42 dB.
Default value = 0 dB.
18
Besides, BSS can control the reporting period of the measurement reports during MS
reselection through the following three parameters: NC_REPORTING_PERIOD_I,
NC_REPORTING_PERIOD_T, and NC_NON_DRX_PERIOD (The parameters will
be delivered through PSI5, or the message SI13, and SI2quater, and so on. This is
similar to the situation of Network_Control_Order.).
2.3.5 The Triggering Conditions of Cell Reselections
When it is time to decide whether to select a 3G cell or a GSM cell to complete the cell
reselection, the MS measurement reports will first be processed. Actually, the
triggering conditions of the cell reselection from GSM to WCDMA are closely related
to the selection conditions of the target cell and “the priority strategies of network
selection”. The so called “the priority strategies of network selection” means whether
the priority is given to the WCDMA network or the GSM network during the cell
reselection process.
Actually, either SGSN or iBSC can control whether the priority is given to WCDMA
cell or GSM cells.
· SGSN is used to control the network selection priority
Here are the details of the method: The message CELL CHANGE ORDER,
which SGSN sends to BSS, contains the field “Service UTRAN CCO”. The
information contained in this field is related to the selection priority strategy
when it is time to decide whether the handover goes towards UTRAN or
CDMA2000. It gives BSC some guidance over the handover stragegy during
its subsequent handover process.
Here are the attributes of the field:
Table 2-9 A List of the Attributes of the Field
Attribute Meaning
Network initiated cell change order to UTRAN or PS handover to UTRAN
000
procedure should be performed (The priority is given to UTRAN.)
001
procedure should not be performed (The priority is given to GSM.)
010
procedure shall not be performed (The cell change to UTRAN is not allowed.)
Other This field is not valid, so it can be ignored.
19
values
This field is stored in BSS, and it is used to do the estimation of handover during
the handover process. (Currently, iBSC does not support this function.)
· BSC is used to control the network selection priority
Here are the details of the method: BSC is responsible for making the judgement
of the netwok selection priority strategies during the handover process according
to the given configuration rules of OMCR. However, currently, this function is
not supported.
In iBSC, the algorithm adopted for the triggering conditions of the network
controlled 2G to 3G cell reselections is the same as that of the cell reselections
which are originated by MS. However, the specific threshold value can be set
differently. In other words, the configurations of FDD_GPRS_Qoffset,
FDD_RSCP_threshold, and FDD_Qmin can be different. (Note: The parameter
here is used when iBSC makes a judgement about the cell reselection, and it will
not be sent to MS through the broadcast.).
Here are the details about the algorithm related to the cell reselection judgement
made by iBSC. If a UE satisfies the following 4 conditions and the situation
lasts for at least 5 seconds, a reselection can be made to the adjacent UTRAN
cells.
1) RSCP >= RLA_P. It means that the RSCP of the adjacent cell is higher than the
average received signal level of the current level RLA_P.
2) RSCP >= FDD_GPRS_Qoffset + RLA_n. It means that RSCP of the neighbor

cell is higher than RLA_P of any GSM neighbor cell by at least
FDD_GPRS_Qoffset (FDD reselection offset). Besides, this situation should last
for more than 5 seconds (If a cell reselection already happens in the previous 15
seconds, FDD_Qoffset needs an increase of 5dB to avoid ping-pong
reselections.).
3) RSCP>= FDD_RSCP_threshold
FDD_RSCP_threshold ＝ FDD_RSCPmin – min((P_MAX – 21 dBm), 3 dB),

20
Qrxlevmin refers to the minimum received signal level required by the UTRAN
cell.
P_MAX refers to the maximum transmission power of UE.
4) Ec/No of the current neighbor cell should be larger than or is equal to the
FDD_Qmin required by the cell and it should be larger than or equal to the
configuration of offset.
2.3.6 iBSC Informs MS that It Should Carry Out the Cell Reselection through
PCCO Message
If iBSC decides that MS should carry out the cell reselection, it will deliver this
information to MS through the message Packet Cell Change Order.
If UE is at the packet idle state and it is configured with PCCCH, the following two
messages Packet Cell Change Order and Packet Measurement Order will be delivered
to the handset through a certain paging block on PCCCH, which is used by the handset
to do some monitoring on PCCCH. If it is not configured with PCCCH, a downlink
block will be first delivered on CCCH through the message Immediate Assignment.
Then, the message Packet Cell Change Order or Packet Measurement Order will be
delivered through the appointed block. (Since NC2 with a packet idle state is not
supported, this process will not be involved in practice.)
When UE is at the packet transmission state, the message Packet Cell Change Order
and the message Packet Measurement Order will be delivered to the handset through
PACCH.
When the handset receives the cell reselection order sent by the network, it will
manage to gain an access to the new cell. If it gains an access to the new cell
successfully, no notification will be sent to the original cell and the whole cell
reselection process is completed. Besides, the handset will report the measurement
reports of the new cell. If it fails to gain an access, it will return back to the original cell
and will apply for a single block of resources to send the message Packet Cell Change
Failure (PCCF). When the handset obtains the radio resources, it will send the message
of Packet Cell Change Failure to the network. Otherwise, MS will carry out an
21
abnormal release, and no notification will be sent to BSC. When the handset returns
back to the original cell, it will still report the measurement reports of the original cell.
If the cell reselection fails, the original target cell has to receive some punishment.
2.3.6.1 The Requirements for NCCR which Are Needed to Support PS Service
For ZTE iBSC, the following items should be configured at OMCR to support the
NCCR of PS.
· Some configuration needs to be done to clarify whether NCCR is supported and

what kind of NCCR is supported (NC0, NC1 or NC2). This is related to the
configuration of the parameter CtrlOrder (network control order).
· Besides, BSS needs to send MEASUREMENT_ORDER in the message PSI1 to

tell UE whether to send the measurement reports or not. This parameter is
corresponding to the OMCR parameter MeaOrder. If
MEASUREMENT_ORDER of the message PSI1 is set as 0, it indicates that
NC0 mode is adopted, and MS does not need to monitor the message PSI5. If
MEASUREMENT_ORDER is set as 1, it indicates that NC1 mode or NC2
mode is adopted. In this case, MS is required to send the measurement reports
and it should further monitor the content of PSI5.
· If the mode is set as NC1 or NC2, it is necessary to set the measurement period
of MS. Specifically speaking, the measurement period parameter
NC_REPORTING_PERIOD_I of the packet idle state, the measurement period
parameter NC_REPORTING_PERIOD_T of packet transmission state, and the
duration of NC but non-DRX mode NC_NON_DRX_PERIOD can be set
respectively through the parameter NcRepPerI (packet idle mode), NcRepPerT
(packet transmission mode), and NcNoDrxPer (the duration of NC but non-DRX
mode).
· After iBSC receives the measurement reports from MS, it needs to store them
and calculate the weighted average. During this process, the configurations of
the following parameters are involved: the size of the moving window which is
used for storing the measurement reports (Wnd), the minimum number of
measurement reports required to make sure that the penalty algorithm does not
work when the handover is made towards the same cell as shown in the moving
window (AllowedRepNum). However, the other parameters which are related to
the weighted average algorithm (for example, weighted value) can not be set at
22
OMCR.
· Besides, it is necessary to control the type of measurement reports sent by MS at

OMCR (MS reports RSCP or EcNo), that is, FDD_REP_QUANT. The OMCR
parameter used to control this is FDDRepQntPS (the types of the reported
UTRAN neighbor cells for PS service).
· Besides, iBSC can control the reporting priority of the cells which are reported
by MS through the parameter FDD_REPORTING_OFFSET and
REPORTING_THRESHOLD in the downlink message. The OMCR parameters
which are corresponding to the two parameters are FDDRprtOffsetPS (It refers
to the offset of the received signal level when it is time to decide which
UTRAN/FDD neighbor cells will be reported.) and FDDRprtThoPS (It refers to
the threshold of the received signal level when it is time to decide which
UTRAN/FDD neighbor cells will be reported.).
· The cell reselection judgement algorithm of iBSC is the same as the judgement
algorithm related to the cell reselection which is originated by MS. However, it
is possible to create different kinds of triggering conditions through the
configurations of the following parameters: FDD_GPRS_Qoffset,
FDD_RSCP_threshold and FDD_Qmin, and FDD_Qmin_Offset. The
corresponding OMCR parameters are the same as those related to the “MS
controlled cell reselections”. The corresponding parameters are
FDD_GPRS_Qoffset_0/1 (FDD GPRS reselection offset), FDD_RSCPminPS
(the minimum RSCP value for UTRAN cell reselection for PS service),
FDD_QminPS_0/1 (the minimum Ec/No for UTRAN cell reselection for PS
service), and FDD_QminOffsetPS_0/1 (FDD_QminPS offset). However,
whether the parameters are used in NC2 or NC0 and NC1 is controlled by the
parameter CtrlOrder (the network control order).
Note:
As to the details of the NCCR weighted average algorithm, please refer to the relevant
attachment enclosed in this document.
23
2.3.7 Network Assisted Cell Change （GSM->WCDMA）
2.3.7.1 The NACC Theory
If the network assisted cell change is available, the UE which is at the packet
transmission state will send a notification to BSC before it starts the cell reselection.
The purpose is to tell BSC the target cell which will be involved in the cell reselection.
Then, BSC will put the system messages or the packet system messages of the target
cell in a packet and send it to MS through the TBF which still performs the
transmission. Then, it will tell MS to continue the reselection process. On the other
hand, when MS receives the system messages of the target cell which is involved in the
reselection, it will make a reselction towards the target cell immediately and will
originate a packet access immdediately, and continue the service. However, different
from the cell reselection which is originated by MS, the function of NCCR is to ask
MS to send the measurement reports and to ask for the network controlled cell
reselection. In order to support NCCR (Network Controlled Cell Reselection),
Network_Control_Order will be delivered through the system message PSI5 on
PBCCH, or the message SI13 and SI2quater on BCCH, or the message PSI13 on
PACCH. Besides, BSS can make MS to carry out the NCCR process through the
Network_Control_Order which is contained in PACKET MEASUREMENT ORDER
or PACKET CELL CHANGE ORDER.
The network assisted cell change (NACC) can effectively shorten the interruption
caused by the cell reselection made by MS during the data transmission process so as
to improve the experience of the high-end users. NACC starts to be adopted from the
version 3GPP R4, and it is only used for the intra-BSC cell reselections. For R4 version,
two independent NACC schemes are designed:
1. BSS will always send the messages broadcasted by all the nearby neighbor cells
to MS on SACCH.
2. Before MS originates a cell reselection, it will make a request to BSS (send the
CCN message – cell change notify) and tell BSS that it decides to originate a
cell reselection. BSS will send the system messages of the target cell to MS on
SACCH. Whether BSS supports CCN (cell change notification) will be
broadcasted on BCCH or PBCCH, and the corresponding parameter is
CCN_ACTIVE. (This scheme is supported by iBSC currently.)
3. If BSS supports the message PACKET PSI STATUS, this information should be
24
delivered to MS through the message PSI1. In this way, MS can send the
message PACKET PSI STATUS to the network so as to clarify the current value
of the PSI message which is stored in MS. Therefore, the network can create a
relevant PSI message on PACCH, which MS needs. In this way, it is possible to
speed up the subsequent flow of the MS.
4. As mentioned above, one can choose to let MS activate CCN. However, apart
from this method, BSS can send PACKET MEASUREMENT ORDER to a
specific MS so as to ask MS to carry out CCN process in the original cell. Or
BSS can send PACKET CELL CHANGE ORDER or PS HANDOVER
COMMAND to a specific MS so as to ask MS to carry out CCN in a new cell.
In these messages, the field CCN_ACTIVE is included. For iBSC, MS is
allowed to carry out CCN process in the original cell by sending the message
PMO.
2.3.7.2 The Extended Functions of NACC
In the version 3GPP R5, NACC gets some expanded functions so as to make the
inter-BSC NACC and the inter-system NACC possible. The inter-system NACC
requires that BSC and RNC can obtain the system messages of the external cells of
BSC through the interface Iur-g or the process of SGSN and RAN Information
Management (RIM). (Currently, the external NACC is made possible with the help of
Gb interface and RIM process.)
The RIM process includes phases, that is, RAN Information Request and RAN
Information Send. BSC obtains the system messages of the external cells through RAN
Information Request. On the other hand, it reports the changes of the system messages
of the current cell to the external cells through RAN Information Send (event-based
triggers or timer-based triggers).
The main control BSC makes the external cells to originate RAN Information Send
through RAN Information Request. In this way, the system messages of the external
cells will be reported to the current cell.
BSC/RNC 1 CN BSC/RNC 2
RAN Information Request
Figure 2-1 The Process of RAN Information Request
25
If there are some changes of the system messages of the current cell of iBSC, the RAN
Information flow will be triggered. Here is the flow of RAN Information Send:
BSC/RNC 1 CN BSC/RNC 2
RAN Information
RAN Information Ack
Figure 2-2 The Flow of RAN Information Send
For ZTE iBSC, the following items should be configured at OMCR to support the
inter-system NACC function.
· First, the switch which supports NACC should be turned on, and the parameter
is NACCSupport (Network Assisted Cell Change).
· For different cells, sometimes the functional switch CCN, that is,
CCN_ACTIVE needs to be turned on. For example, the cells which need to
support the NACC function. Besides, the corresponding parameter is
CCNActive (It supports CCN mode.).
· Besides, the switch named “PACKET PSI STATUS support” should be turned
on, and the corresponding parameter is “PsiStatInd” (It is a mark which indicates
that the PSI state is supported.).
2.4 The Cell Handover between 2G and 3G System
2.4.1 The Parameters Related to CS Service Switching (GSM->WCDMA)
The MS which resides in a GSM cell and still provides the call service may receive the
Measurement Information on the downlink SACCH, which is sent by BSC. This
message also contains the information of the adjacent WCDMA cells and the
information of the WCDMA measurement parameters.
In the message System information type 2quater and Measurement Information, there
are the descriptions of the radio parameters of 3G neighbor cells (iBSC allows the
configuration of 64 WCDMA neighbor cells at most). However, apart from these
descriptions, in the two messages, there are some important control parameters which
are related to the neighbor cell measurements and the handovers. Here are the
26
parameters:
· Qsearch_C
This parameter indicates the threshold for MS to originate the inter-system cell
measurements (the adjacent WCDMA cells). This parameter defines a threshold.
If the average received signal level of the current cell, that is, RLA_C, is lower
than (The parameter value is 0~7.) or higher than (The parameter value is 8~15.)
the threshold, UE will start to search the adjacent 3G cells. Here are the details
about the values:
Table 2-10 The Definition of the Parameter Qsearch_C

Value
range
Search for 3G cells if signal level below threshold (0-7):
- 98, - 94, … , - 74 dBm, ∞ (always)
Qsearch_C 0-15
or above threshold (8-15):
- 78, - 74, … , - 54 dBm, ∞ (never)
If the value is 7, it means that the measurements for the adjacent WCDMA cells
which are made by MS will not be affected by the received signal level of the
current GSM cell, and MS will always carry out the measurements. If the value
is 15, it means that MS will not carry out the measurements for the adjacent
WCDMA cells. In other words, it is not possible to have a handover from a
GSM cell to a WCDMA cell.
If MS does not receive the parameter Qsearch_C, the selection of the judgement
threshold depends on the value of Qsearch_C_Initial in the message of System
information type 2quater on BCCH.
Table 2-11 The Definition of the Parameter Qsearch_C_Initial

Value
range
Indicates the Qsearch value to be used in connected mode before
Qsearch_C is received,
Qsearch_C_Initial 0/1
0 = use Qsearch_I, 1 = ∞ (always).
Default value = use Qsearch_I.
Specifically speaking, if the value of Qsearch_C_Initial is 0, the value of

QSearch_I will be adopted as the inter-system measurement threshold; if the
value of Qsearch_C_Initial is 1, MS will always carry out the inter-system
measurements.
27
· 3G_SEARCH_PRIO
This parameter indicates whether BSIC decoding is needed when the 3G

neighbor cells are searched and measured (The longest period is 13s). Here is a
description about the selection of values:
Table 2-12 The Definition of the Parameter 3G_SEARCH_PRIO

Indicates if 3G cells may be searched when BSIC
decoding is required,
3G_SEARCH_PRIO 0/1
0 = no, 1 = yes
Default value = yes
· FDD_REP_QUANT
This parameter indicates whether RSCP or Ec/No should be reported in the

measurement reports provided by MS. 0 means that MS should report the
measurement results of RSCP, while 1 means that the measurement results of
Ec/No should be reported.
· REPORT_TYPE
This parameter clarifies whether the measurement reports provided by MS

should be reported in form of EMR or MR.
· XXX_MULTIRAT_REPORTING
This parameter indicates the maximum number of the 3G neighbor cells which
is allowed in the measurement reports provided by MS. If the number of the 3G
neighbor cells which satisfy the requirements <
XXX_MULTIRAT_REPORTING, the remained space can be filled in with GSM
neighbor cells.
· XXX_REPORTING_THRESHOLD
This parameter tells MS that it can not send the measurement reports unless the
reported value is larger than the threshold. Here is a definition:
Table 2-13 The Definition of the Parameter XXX_REPORTING_THRESHOLD
28

Apply priority reporting if the reported value is above
threshold for GSM frequency band or access
XXX_REPORTING_THRES
technology/mode XXX (one or more), 0-7
HOLD
0, 6, … , 36, ∞ (never).
Default value = always.
· FDD_REPORTING_THRESHOLD_2
This parameter is used when the measurement type is not clarified in

FDD_REP_QUANT. It tells MS if the reported value of the current cell is larger
than the threshold, the relevant measurement data should also be reported
(Suppose it is clarified that FDD_REP_QUANT should report the RSCP
measurement results. If the EcNo of a certain cell is larger than
FDD_REPORTING_THRESHOLD_2, the measurement results of this cell
should also be reported.). Here is a description about the selection of values:
Table 2-14 The Definition of the Parameter FDD_REPORTING_THRESHOLD_2

Reporting threshold for the CPICH parameter (Ec/No
FDD_REPORTING_THRESH or RSCP) that is not reported according to
0-63
OLD_2 FDD_REP_QUANT.
Default value = 0 (disabled)
If MS starts to do the measurements for the adjacent WCDMA cells, it will send
Measurement Report to BSC periodically (480ms) or it will send Enhanced
Measurement Report. BSC will decide whether to enable the handover flow
according to the GSM handover algorithm and the relevant measurement
information.
If the standard Measurement Report is adopted and BCCH_FREQ_NCELL of a

neighbor cell is 31, the corresponding RXLEV_NECLL will show the
measurement results of an adjacent 3G cell (RSCP or Ec/No). Besides, the
corresponding BSIC indicates the location of the adjacent 3G cell in the list of
adjacent 3G cells. In this sense, the maximum number of the cells adjacent to the
GSM cells which can be reported is reduced to 31 (The original number is 32.).
In this case, the maximum number of WCDMA neighbor cells which can be set
is 64.
In ENHANCED MEASUREMENT REPORT, 4 parameters (RXLEV_VAL,

MEAN_BEP, CV_BEP, and NBR_RCVD_BLOCKS) are added. These
parameters are related to the reported value of the serving cell. Besides, if there
29
are invalid BSIC in the neighbor cells (This is not described in the system
message, but the BSIC is allowed by NCC.), the measurement results of the
GSM neighbor cells are put in the unit of invalid_BSIC_information separately.
If there is a certain QUANTITY of GSM neighbor cells and 3G neighbor cells,
which have the valid BSIC, it is put in REPORTING_QUANTITIY (bitmap file
format) to be reported. If this message needs to be used, there is a precondition,
that is, each of the frequency point in BA should be configured with at least one
BSIC. The advantage is that the data of the reported neighbor cells, of which the
number can not be more than 6, is valid if it is required that UE can not report
the invalid BSIC cells. If EMR is adopted, BSS can allow the configuration of
64 WCDMA neighbor cells at most.
The figure here is a voice switching signaling flow from GSM to WCDMA.
RNC 3G MSC 2G MSC BSC MS
PREPARE HANDOVER HANDOVER REQUIRED

RELOCATION REQUEST REQUEST
RELOCATION
RESPONSE ack. PREPARE HANDOVER
RESPONSE
IAM
ACM
HANDOVER COMMAND HANDOVER COMMAND
RELOCATION DETECT PROCESS SIGNALLING
RELOCATION
SEND END SIGNAL
COMPLETE
ANM
RELEASE
RELEASE COMPLETE
Figure 2-3 A Voice Switching Signaling Flow from GSM to WCDMA
Here are the details about the signaling flow:
1. The original iBSC decides that MS should have a handover towards a WCDMA
cell according to the handover algorithm of GSM and the measurement
information, and it will send HANDOVER REQUIRED towards MSC.
2. The target RNC is responsible for the allocation of resources for the current
handover, and the setting of NodeB will be set up through the process of RL
SETUP. The target RNC will send the message HANDOVER COMMAND to
iBSC through MSC.
30
3. RNC will allocate the radio resources and other sets of parameters for MS.
4. iBSC will send the message HANDOVER COMMAND to MS, and MS and
NodeB will complete the synchronization on the air interface.
5. When NodeB detects MS, it will send the RL Restore message to RNC.
6. When RNC receives the message RL Restore, it will send the message
Relocation Detect to WCDMA MSC.
7. MS will send the message Handover To WCDMA Complete to RNC.
8. RNC will send the message Relocation Complete on Iu interface to WCDMA

MSC so as to inform iBSC that it should release the resources. Then, the
RNCWCDMA inward handover is compelted.
The GSM to WCDMA voice switching judgement algorighm is completed by BSS of

GSM. In order to support the inter-system handover, BSS of GSM must support 3GPP
R99 and the following protocol. Currently, the version of ZTE BSC is compatible with
3GPP R5 standards. Therefore, it supports the voice switching process from GSM to
WCDMA.
Specifically speaking, in order to support the inter-system handover, GSM BSS should
at least have the following functions.
· It should support the configuration of the adjacent WCDMA cells.
· It should support the System Information Type 2quater message. This message
can send the list of neighor cells and the measurement control parameters to MS.
Besides, it can help MS to send the measurement reports of WCDMA neighbor
cells at an appropriate time.
· It should allow that the information of the adjacent WCDMA cells and the
information of WCDMA measurement control can be delivered to MS. In other
words, it should support the new system messages at a connection state.
· It should be able to decode the new measurement reports MR and the enhanced
measurement reports EMR.
· It should be able to support the following items: The relevant inter-system

handover algorithm; the coverage-based voice switching from GSM to
WCDMA, the service-based handover from GSM to WCDMA, the load-based
handover from GSM to WCDMA, the load-based directed retry from GSM to
31
WCDMA.
· It should be able to send a handover request to WCDMA. iBSC should be able

to send the message Handover Required on A interface after it receives the
measurement reports. Besides, the format of this message must be compatible
with R99 version.
· It should support the inter-system handover order named InterSystemTo

WCDMA Handover Command, which is a response to WCDMA. Besides, it
should be able to send the command to MS.
For iBSC, the following items should be configured to support the inter-system
handovers in CS domain.
· First, the switch in BSC which supports the inter-system handover should be
enabled (InterSysHoCtrl).
· It should support the configuration of the WCDMA neighbor cells. First, the
configuration of the UTRAN external cells should be completed. The parameters
which will be involved in the configuration include CellTypeUTRAN, MCC,
MNC, LAC, C_Id of UTRAN neighbor cells, ArfcnUTRAN, RNC_Id which the
UTRAN neighbor cells belong to, RAC, FDD scrambling or TDD cell
parameters (ScCodeCellPara), and the diversity adoptd by the UTRAN neighbor
cells (DiverSity). For the details of the parameters, please refer to chaper 4
named “The Relevant Parameters Involved in the Configuration of WCDMA
Neighbor Cells”.
· As to the configuration of WCDMA neighbor cells, if EMR measurement

reports are adopted, the following constraints of iBSC OMCR should be
included.
The maximum number of neighbor cells allowed (including

GSM/WCDMA/TD-SCDMA) is 96.
The maximum number of WCDMA neighbor cells is 64.
The number of the WCDMA neighbor cells which have the same frequency
points should be no more than 32.
The number of frequency points of the WCDMA neighbor cells should be no

more than 3.
32
· The configuration of SI2quater: The configuration can decide whether SI2quater

message is delivered on BCCH or the expanded BCCH. The corresponding
OMCR parameter is SI2QuaterPos (the position of the channel where SI2quater
is broadcasted).
· It is necessary to do some configurations for some parameters, including the

control parameters related to the neighbor cell measurements done by MS. For
example, Qsearch_C, Qsearch_C_Initial, and so on. The corresponding OMCR
parameters are as follows: Qsearch_C (the threshold for UE to start the search
for the UTRAN neighbor cells under a dedicated mode), QsearchCInit
(Qsearch_C_Initial, a parameter which works before UE gets the parameter
Qsearch_C), SvrBandRprtCS (SERVING_BAND_REPORTING, the number of
the reported co-channel GSM neighbor cells CS – it should be noticed that the
co-channel GSM neighbor cells enjoy the priority to be reported first.),
FDDrepQntCS (FDD_REP_QUANT, the type of the quantity of the reported
UTRAN neighbor cells is CS.), FDDMulRatarrptCS
(XXX_MULTIRAT_REPORTING, the maximum number of UTRAN/FDD
neighbor cells which can be included in the measurement reports),
ReportRateCS (REPORTING_RATE, it refers to how often the measurement
reports are reported by the neighbor cells CS), SearchPrioCSUTRAN
(3G_SEARCH_PRIO, UE searches for the UTRAN neighbor cells CS in the
frames which need to be decoded by BSIC), FDDRprtOffsetCS
(XXX_REPORTING_OFFSET, the received signal level offset of the moment
when some of the UTRAN/FDD neighbor cells are selected to be reported),
FDDRprtThoCS (XXX_REPORTING_THRESHOLD, the threshold of the
received signal level of the moment when some of the UTRAN/FDD neighbor
cells are selected to be reported), ReportTypeCS (REPORT_TYPE, the types of
information related to the measurement reports which are reported by UE).
· Make a configuration to make it clear whether MS uses MR or EMR (enhanced

measurement reports) to report measurements. The corresponding parameter is
ReportTypeCS (the type of the information related to the measurement reports
which are reported by UE).
· Make a configuration of the inter-system handover algorithm and handover

parameters of iBSC.
33
2.4.2 The Algorithm of CS Service Switching (GSM->WCDMA)
Here are the main purposes or the original thoughts related to the inter-system
handovers from GSM to WCDMA:
· The requirements of continuous coverage
When MS resides in an area which is covered only by GSM network and it is

still at the conversation status, MS will move toward the area which is covered
by WCDMA network.
· The factor of load distribution
The service-based handover is mainly about how to make certain services stay in
certain bearer networks. The purpose is to take full advantage of both WCDMA
network and GSM network. For example, WCDMA can be mainly used to carry
the data and GSM can be mainly used to carry the voice, and so on.
· The factor of the optimization of network resources
The handover which is based on the optimization of network resources refers to

the inter-system handover which is triggered by the following factors: Load,
interferences, providing an access to more subscribers, services provided for the
subscribers, and so on. The main purpose is to optimize the configuration of
network to the fullest extent and to make full use of the advantages of a hybrid
network.
In order to realize the inter-system handovers mentioned above, ZTE iBSC

provides a series of handover algorithms. Then, the combinations of different
parameters can reach the targets mentioned above in a flexible way.
First, a description will be made about the triggering conditions of the

inter-system handovers. Here are the triggering conditions which can make
iBSC give an inter-system handover judgement.
Whenever the measurement reports are received from MS, they should be
processed. Besides, a judgement should be made about whether a handover
should be originated.
Suppose it is during the process of call admission. If congestion exists in the cell,
an inter-system directed retry may be triggered.
A handover may be caused by “handover enquiry”. If MSC finds that a certain
34
cell is quite busy, MSC will send a message named HANDOVER CANDIDATE
ENQUIRY to the BSS which the cell belongs to. This messge can tell the
maximum number of handover requirements which can be triggered and the
candidate cells which can be used during the handover. When BSS receives this
message, it will send the handover request to MSC according to the
requirements mentioned in the message, including the appointed cells and the
number of the appointed MSs which need a handover. When all the “handover
requests” are sent out, this module will send a “handover candidate response
message” to MSC to tell it the number of the candidates that have already sent
the handover request.
If the occupation percentage of the traffic channels of the serving cell (the
number of the occupied TCHs/the total number of the TCHs (not including the
blocked channels)) is larger than its TrafficThs which is related to traffic
handovers, BSS will make a judgement that the current cell is too busy and a
traffic handover will be triggered. iBSC will calculate the load and do enquiries
periodically.
2.4.3 How to Process the Measurement Reports from MS
When it is time to process the measurement reports from MS to decide whether the
handover is toward a 3G cell or a GSM cell, the triggering conditions of the handover
from GSM to WCDMA and the requirements for the selection of target cells are related
to the “priority strategy of network selection”. The so called “priority strategy of
network selection” means whether the WCDMA network or the GSM network will be
first selected during the handover process.
Whether the WCDMA cells will be selected first or the GSM cells will be selected first
can be controlled by MSC or iBSC.
· The MSC-controlled Priority Strategy of Network Selection
Method: The message ASSIGNMENT REQUEST/HANDOVER REQUEST,

which MSC sends to BSS, contains a field named “Service Handover”. This
field contains the information which indicates the priority strategy of network
selection, that is, whether to first select UTRAN or CDMA2000. Besides, it also
indicates the handover strategy which BSC will adopt in its subsequent
handover process.
35
Here are the attributes of the field:
Table 2-15 A List of the Attributes of the Field Related to the Priority Strategy of Network
Selection
Attribute
Meaning
value
It means the priority will be given to UTRAN or cdma2000 when a network is to
000 be selected. Specifically speaking, it means the priority will be given to UTRAN
or cdma2000 when a target cell is to be selected.
It means that the priority will be given to GSM when a network is to be selected.
001 Specifically speaking, it means that the priority will be given GSM when a target
cell is to be selected.
010 It means that it is not allowed to have a handover towards UTRAN or cdma2000.
Other values This field is invalid, and it can be neglected.
This field is kept in BSS, and it is used to estimate the handover during the handover
process.
· The BSC-controlled Priority Strategy of Network Selection
Method: BSC will make a judgement about which network will be selected first
during the handover process according to the given configurations at OMCR.
For ZTE iBSC, some configurations can be done at OMCR to decide which
strategy will be adopted (controlled by MSC or BSC). If the configuration,
which is completed in cell attributes, is “BSC decides the priority strategy of
handover”, whether the priority goes to 3G or 2G will depend on the cell
selection strategy set up at OMCR. However, if the configuration, which is
completed in cell attributes, is “MSC decides the priority strategy of handover”,
whether the priority goes to 3G or 2G will depend on the cell selection strategy
of the service data which comes from the core network.
· The priority is given to WCDMA cells
With this priority, first, a 2G to 3G handover judgement will be made. If it is

possible to have a handover to 3G cells, the handset will be required to make a
handover to 3G cells. However, if it is not possible to have a handover to 3G
cells, another handover judgement will be made to have a handover toward 2G
cells. The details about the handover judgement will be clarified in the following
part.
36
If this strategy is adopted, the subscribers of the dual mode handsets can enjoy
the quality voice service of 3G network. Besides, it is possible for them to have
soft handovers within the area which is covered by 3G network. There is a high
success rate and the service is good.
· The priority is given to GSM cells
With this strategy, first, a handover judgement within 2G network will be made.
If it is possible to have a handover toward 2G network and the handover is a
kind of rescue, a 3G cell will be selected as a candidate cell. If all the cells
within 2G network have been tried and there are no external cells, this 3G
candidate cell will be tried. If the 2G handover is not a kind of rescue handover,
it is not necessary to select a 3G cell as a candidate cell.
If the coverage provided by 2G network is good, it is not common to have

handovers and reselections from 2G to 3G. If this strategy is adopted, the 2G/3G
inter-system handovers can be reduced. In this way, it is possible to reduce the
signaling and the handover failures, which are caused by the complicated
inter-system handover process.
However, the disadvantage is that the service is only provided for the
subscribers of the dual mode terminals within 2G network. Therefore, if there
are a lot of subscribers of the dual mode terminals, it is quite possible that 2G
network bears a heavy load while 3G network does not.
· The WCDMA cells are not allowed
With this strategy, the handover judgement only takes 2G handover into account.
Suppose the capcity of the 3G network is small while there are a lot of
subscribers of the dual mode terminals. In this case, 3G network has to bear a
heavy load and this strategy can be adopted temparorily. That is, the service
provided by 2G network is not allowed to be moved to the 3G network.
If the two kinds of configurations both exist (the configuration of MSC and the
configuration of BSC), the priority strategy is as follows. Please see the
following table.
Table 2-16 The Cell Selection Priority Strategy Related to the Inter-system Handovers
37
The priority goes to The priority does not go to

The handover towards
WCDMA during the WCDMA during the
WCDMA is not allowed.
handover. handover.
The priority goes to The priority goes to The priority goes to

WCDMA during the WCDMA during the WCDMA during the
handover. handover. handover.
The priority does not goes to The priority does not go to The priority does not go to
WCDMA during the WCDMA during the WCDMA during the
handover. handover. handover.
The handover towards The handover towards The handover towards The handover towards
WCDMA is not allowed. WCDMA is not allowed. WCDMA is not allowed. WCDMA is not allowed.
It depends on MSC, the
priority goes to WCDMA
Use the value of MSC. If MSC does not have the parameter Service Handover, the default
during the handover
value of iBSC will be used.
according to the default
setting.
priority does not go to
WCDMA during the
handover according to the
default setting.
handover towards WCDMA
is not allowed according to
the default setting.
Besides, if WCDMA neighbor cells and TD-SCDMA neighbor cells exist at the same
time, whether the priority goes to WCDMA or TD-SCDMA can be controlled by the
parameter “FDD/TDD handover” (FDDTDDPrio) at iBSC side.
The triggering conditions of the handover from 2G to 3G are as follows:
Give each 3G neighbor cell a strength threshold (RSCP and Ec/No should be set up
separately.). Among the latest N running mean values of RSCP or Ec/No, there are at
least P of them which are equal to or larger than the threshold. Then, the handover
towards 3G network can be triggered.
For example, RSCP defines the parameter 3GHoRSCPThs, and 3GHoRSCP_P,

3GHoRSCP_N. Among these, 3GHoRSCPThs is the threshold value. If the result of
the running calculation is larger than the threshold, the count values will be
accumulated. Therefore, among the continuous 3GHoRSCP_N average running
38
calculation results, if more than 3GHoRSCP_P are larger than the threshold
3GHoRSCPThs, this cell will be a candidate cell for the handover from GSM to
WCDMA.
For example, Ec/No defines the parameter 3GHoEcNoThs, 3GHoEcNo_P, and

3GHoEcNo_N. Among these, 3GHoEcNoThs is the threshold value. If the result of the
running calculation is larger than the threshold, the count values will be accumulated.
Therefore, if more than 3GHoEcNo_P calculated values are larger than the threshold
3GHoEcNoThs among the continuous 3GHoEcNo_N average running calculation
results, this cell will be a candidate cell for the handover from GSM to WCDMA.
The conditions for the selection of 3G target cells are as follows:
If more than one WCDMA neighbor cell satisfies the handover judgement
requirements, only one of the neighbor cells will be selected for the WCDMA handover
instead of putting the target cells in an order. Besides, the neighbor cell which is
selected as the target cell should have the most satisfying level (or EcNo). The
conditions for the selection of the target cell for the handover are the same as those of
the handover judgement. The only difference is that the average value of P, or N will
not be used. Instead, the latest average running level will be used, on which the
judgement will rest (In other words, only an aveage of HoWindowUTRAN continuous
RSCPs or EcNos will be calculated.). Since WCDMA handover is a kind of external
handover, only one attempt will be made to have a handover.
In other words, the slide average algorithm is used for RSCP and EcNo of the target
cell. Specifically speaking, the slide average algorithm is the same as the calculation
done for the original cell. However, different kinds of paramters can be set. The
parameters involved in the slide average algorithm include HoWindowUTRAN (the
size of the moving window which shows the average value of Ec/No or RSCP of the
neighbor cells) and ZeroAllowedUTRAN (The allowed number of measurement values
of UTRAN adjacent cells, which are 0.).
This decision algorithm can be applied to the “WCDMA cell preferred handover” and
the “GSM cell preferred” PBGT handover.
2.4.4 The Directed Retry Handover Process
Currently, the way to judge whether the 3G neighbor cells satisfy the directed retry
conditions are the same as the way to judge whether a handover is allowed. In other
39
words, among the latest HORSCP_N_FDD (HOECNO_N_FDD) average values of

RSCP, if HORSCP_P_FDD (HOECNO_P_FDD) of them are at least equal to or larger
than the sum of HoRSCPThsFDD (HOECNOTHSFDD) and HORSCPOFFSET3G
(HOECNOOFFSET3G) of the neighbor cell, this cell can be used as the target cell for
the directed retry. If more than one cell satisfies the requirements, the cell with the
largest average measurement value will be selected as the target cell. Besides, at most,
one external cell can be tried during the directed retry process.
Besides, the parameter InterSysRdCtrl of OMCR can be used to control whether the
directed retry towards 3G cells is allowed. Apart from this, it should also be noticed
that an attempt will be made first to apply for resources of the internal target cells if a
directed retry is needed. If this fails, another attempt will be made to have a directed
retry towards the external cells. However, for the directed retry towards the external
cells, whether the priority of directed retry goes to 2G cells or 3G cells depends on the
“the priority strategies of network selection”. The information of “the measurement of
network priority” can be obtained through the values of SERVICE HANDOVER
(delivered by MSC) or ServiceHo (the configuration of BSC), which include “priority
given to 3G cells”, “priority given to 2G cells” and “3G cells not allowed”.
In order to support the directed retry, the directed retry switch DrInd needs to be turned
on at the OMCR of iBSC.
2.4.4.1 The Handover Caused by the “Handover Enquiry”
Currently, during the “handover enquiry” process, the way to judge whether 3G
neighbor cells satisfy the handover requirements is the same as the way to judge
whether a handover is allowed. In other words, among the latest HORSCP_N_FDD
(HOECNO_N_FDD) average values of RSCP, if HORSCP_P_FDD
（ HOECNO_P_FDD ）of them are at least equal to or larger than the sum of
HoRSCPThsFDD (HOECNOTHSFDD) and HORSCPOFFSET3G
(HOECNOOFFSET3G) of the neighbor cell, this cell can be used as the target cell for
the handover. If more than one cell satisfies the requirements, the cell with the largest
average measurement value will be selected as the target cell.
However, during the handover enquiry process, whether the directed retry is towards
the 2G cells or the 3G cells first depends on “the priority strategies of network
selection”. The information of “the measurement of network priority” can be obtained
through the values of SERVICE HANDOVER (delivered by MSC) or ServiceHo (the
40
configuration of BSC), which include “priority given to 3G cells”, “priority given to

2G cells” and “3G cells not allowed”.
2.4.4.2 The Handover Caused by the Load of the Serving Cell
For the handover caused by the load of the serving cell, the conditions on which the
judgement of the 3G target cells is based are the same as those which have been
mentioned previously. In other words, the way to judge whether the 3G neighbor cells
satisfy the requirements for handover is as follows: Among the latest
HORSCP_N_FDD（HOECNO_N_FDD）average values of RSCP, if HORSCP_P_FDD
（ HOECNO_P_FDD ）of them are at least equal to or larger than the sum of
LoadHoRSCPThsFDD （ LoadHoEcNoThsFDD ） and HORSCPOFFSET3G
（HOECNOOFFSET3G）of the neighbor cell, this cell can be used as the target cell for
the handover. If more than one cell satisfies the requirements, the cell with the largest
average measurement value will be selected as the target cell.
If it is expected that the handover caused by the load is to be completed successfully, it

is necessary for iBSC to tell its own load state to other nearby BSS or RNS.
Specifically speaking, iBSC can send the message of LOAD INDICATION (BSSAP)
to MSC periodically.
In order to make the load measurement and the load indication possible, three
parameters should be set up at OMCR, including “LoadInd”, “LoadValidTime”, and
“LoadIndPrd”. These parameters indicate whether the load indication is enabled and
what the strategy of periodically reported load indiction is like.
2.4.4.3 The Handover Failure Penalty Time
In order to avoid the ping-pong handover, iBSC adopts a method called the handover
failure penalty time. Specifically speaking, this is a period of time which avoids an
immediate handover right after the handover from GSM to WCDMA fails. Within this
period of time, even if the measurement reports satisfy the triggering conditions of
handover, iBSC will not originate a handover. This can be realized through the
configuration of the parameter named HoFailPenalTmUTRAN (the penalty period of
handover failure to UTRAN cell).
2.4.5 CS Service Handover (WCDMA->GSM)
For the CS handover from WCDMA to GSM, what matters most is at the WCDMA
network side. However, for the GSM side, the following issues are quite important:
41
1. On A interface, the Handover Request message of the BSSAP signaling should

at least can support R99 version. In other words, it should be adaptable to the
chage of the coding method of the parameter Cell Identifier (Serving) which
carries the original cell ID of WCDMA network.
2. For BSSAP signaling, the RF value 6, and 7 of classmark2 which is carried by

the handover Request message can be ignored and do not need to be handled.
3. AS to the encryption algorithm delivered by GSM MSC, it can be ignored

without influencing the subsequent handover process even if the encryption
function is not enabled for BSS.
4. When BSS sends HANDOVER REQUEST ACK to GSM MSC, Chosen

Encryption Algorithm IE can not be blank no matter the encryption function is
enabled or not.
Since iBSC satisfies these basic requirements, there is not any problem about the CS
handover from WCDMA to GSM. The figure 8 shows the voice handover signaling
flow from WCDMA to GSM.
UE RNC 3G MSC 2G MSC BSC
RELOCATION REQUIRED
PREPARE HANDOVER
HANDOVER REQUEST
HANDOVER REQUEST
PREPARE HANDOVER ACK
RESPONSE
RELOCATION COMMAND
HANDOVER COMMAND
HANDOVER DETECT
HANDOVER COMPLETE
SEND END SIGNAL HANDOVER COMPLETE

REQUEST
RELEASE COMMAND
RELEASE COMPLETE SEND END SIGNAL

RESPONSE
Figure 2-4 The Voice Handover Flow from WCDMA to GSM
Here are the details about the flow:
1. The original RNC start to send the handover request message to GSM MSC and
originate the voice handover process from WCDMA to GSM according to the
42
attributes of the current cell, the configuration attributes of the neighbor cells,
the MS measurement results, and so on.
2. After the target iBSC allocates the radio resources and other resources to MS,
this messag will be sent to the original RNC through WCDMA MSC.
3. RNC will send the information of iBSC to MS through the message of Handover
from WCDMA Command on Uu interface. According to this message, MS will
identify the information of radio channel resources which GSM/BSS allocate to
it. Then, MS will gain an access to the GSM cells.
4. After MS gains an access to the GSM cells, WCDMA MSC will send Iu Release
Command to the original RNC. Then, RNC starts to release the context of MS,
the radio resources, and other resources.
2.4.6 PS Handover
Currently, the PS Handover either from GSM to WCDMA or from WCDMA to GSM is
not supported by iBSC.
2.5 An Introduction to the Interoperation between GSM and WCDMA
2.5.1 The Interoperation Items Supported by ZTE GSM/WCDMA
The following table shows the interoperation items which are supported by ZTE GSM
network, and the version of ZTE GSM is V6.20.
Table 2-17 The Supported Interoperation Items
No. Category The item content

Cell BSC supports the system message SI2ter, SI2quater, and SI3. Besides, it
1
reselection supports the configuration of the WCDMA neighbor cells.
The configuration of GSM neighbor cells and the configuration of WCDMA
2
neighbor cells can be done respectively.
The allowed maximum number of the configuration of WCDMA neighbor
3
cells is 64.
Different cell reselection parameters will be used for the idle state and the
4
PS connection state.
The message of Measurement Information is supported. Besides, BSC can
5 NCCR originate and identify the parameters which are relevant to WCDMA
(NCCR).
43
For BSC, it is able to trigger the Cell Change Order (to UTRAN) signaling
6 through the measurement reports so as to make UE starts the cell reselection
(NCCR).
7 NACC The inter-system NACC is supported.
8 The RIM process which goes through the BSSGP interface is supported.
The The BSSAP signaling Handover Request which BSC sends on A interface is
two-way about R99 version or a more advanced version. In this way, BSC can be
9
voice adaptable to the change of the coding method of the parameter Cell
handover Identifier (Serving) which carries the original cell ID.
BSC can ignore the RF value 6, and 7 of classmark2 which is carried by the
10
Handover Request message. They do not need to be handled.
As to the encryption algorithm delivered by 2G MSC, it is required that it
11 can be ignored without influencing the subsequent handover process even if
the encryption function is not enabled for BSS.
12 It supports the enhanced measurement reports.
13 The inter-system handover caused by the load of the original cell
14 The inter-system directed retry caused by the load of the original cell
It supports the inter-system handover control (MSC-controlled) based on the
15
priority strategy
It supports the inter-system handover control (BSC-controlled) based on the
16
priority strategy.
It supports the inter-system directed retry (from GSM to WCDMA) caused
17
by the load of the original cell.
It supports the inter-system handover (from GSM to WCDMA) caused by
18
the load of the original cell.
44
3 Appendixes
3.1 GSM Protocol Reference

A reference is made to R6 version:
Type Number Title

TS 43.129 Packed-switched handover for GERAN A/Gb mode; Stage 2(R6)
TS 44.018 Mobile radio interface layer 3 specification; RRC protocol
TS 44.060 General Packet Radio Service (GPRS);Mobile Station (MS) - Base Station
System (BSS) interface;Radio Link Control/Medium Access Control
(RLC/MAC) protocol(R5)
TS 45.002 Technical Specification Group GSM/EDGE Radio Access
Network;Multiplexing and multiple access on the radio path(R5)
TS 45.008 Technical Specification Group GSM/EDGE Radio Access Network;Radio
subsystem link control(R5)
TS 48.008 MSC-BSS Interface Layer 3 Specification
GSM protocol reference
3.2 Other Parameters and Explanations Related to the

Interoperation
Many parameters are involved in the interoperation. However, the categories of
parameters vary with the different kinds of interopeation functions. In this document,
the major parameters have been explained and introduced according to different
interoperation functions. For the explanations and usage methods of other parameters,
please refer to the document named GSM P&O Special Subject Guidebook—2-3G
Interoperation Fast Check of Parameters.
45

02 GO - NAST3010 - E01 - 0 2G-3G Cell Reselection and Handover-49p

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02 GO - NAST3010 - E01 - 0 2G-3G Cell Reselection and Handover-49p

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2G-3G Cell Reselection & Handover

1 An Introduction to the Reselections and Handovers Related to 2/3G Interoperability ......................... 1

1.1 The Preconditions of the Realization of Interoperability ...................................................................... 1

1.2 The Parameters Involved in the Interoperability ................................................................................... 1

2 The Reselections and Handovers between GSM and WCDMA ................................................................ 3

2.1 Strategies for Dual-mode Terminals to Reside in a Network ............................................................... 3

2.2 PLMN Selection ...................................................................................................................................... 3

2.3.1 Cell Reselection at an Idle State (GSM->WCDMA)................................................................. 6

2.3.2 PS Cell Reselection (GSM->WCDMA) ................................................................................... 10

2.3.4 Network-controlled Cell Reselections (GSM->WCDMA) ..................................................... 14

2.3.5 The Triggering Conditions of Cell Reselections ...................................................................... 19

2.3.7 Network Assisted Cell Change （GSM->WCDMA） .......................................................... 24

2.4 The Cell Handover between 2G and 3G System ................................................................................. 26

2.4.1 The Parameters Related to CS Service Switching (GSM->WCDMA) .................................. 26

2.4.2 The Algorithm of CS Service Switching (GSM->WCDMA) ................................................. 34

2.4.3 How to Process the Measurement Reports from MS ............................................................... 35

2.4.4 The Directed Retry Handover Process...................................................................................... 39

2.4.5 CS Service Handover (WCDMA->GSM) ................................................................................ 41

2.4.6 PS Handover ............................................................................................................................... 43

2.5 An Introduction to the Interoperation between GSM and WCDMA ................................................. 43

3.1 GSM Protocol Reference ......................................................................................................................45

3.2 Other Parameters and Explanations Related to the Interoperation .....................................................45

1.1 The Preconditions of the Realization of Interoperability

Here are the preconditions:

The definition/configuration of the external neighbor cells;

The configuration of reselection/handover parameters;

The increase of system messages;

1.2 The Parameters Involved in the Interoperability

2.1 Strategies for Dual-mode Terminals to Reside in a Network

2.2 PLMN Selection

Here is a description of the principles:

When MS is powered on or is at the roaming state, MS will manage to gain an access

PLMN selection/reselection can be completed automatically or manually. When it

1. RPLMN 和 EPLMN; RPLMN and EPLMN;

PLMN reseletion occurs in the following two situations:

2. EPLMN (Equivalent PLMN): Equivalent PLMN means that the services

5. OPLMN (Operator Controlled PLMN): The PLMN is controlled by the carriers.

2.3 A Brief Introduction to the Inter-system Cell Reselection

2.3.1 Cell Reselection at an Idle State (GSM->WCDMA)

Here is the definition of Qsearch_I:

Table 2-1 The Definition of Qsearch_I

If Qsearch_I is configured as 7, MS will always do measurements for the adjacent

Table 2-2 The Definition of FDD_Qoffset

When the configuration of FDD_Qoffset is 0, it means that a WCDMA cell will be

Table 2-3 The Definition of FDD_Qmin

3) Ec/No >= FDD_Qmin-FDD_Qmin_Offset. That is, Ec/No of the neighbor cell is

FDD_RSCP_threshold ＝ FDD_RSCPmin – min((P_MAX – 21 dBm), 3 dB),

Pcompensation＝max(UE_TXPWR_MAX_RACH – P_MAX, 0) (dB)

P_MAX is the maximum transmission power of UE.

· The configuration of WCDMA neighbor cells: First, the configuratin of the

parameters, including CellTypeUTRAN, MCC, MNC, LAC, C_Id of UTRAN

· The configuration of Qsearch_I: It should correspond to the OMCR parameter

· The configuration of SI2quater: Whether SI2quater message is delivered on

· The configuration of FDD_Qoffset and FDD_Qmin: It corresponds to the

The following principles should be observed when the inter-system cell

· The efficiency principle: If the field strength principle is satisfied, it is suggested

some areas are covered by two networks.

2.3.2 PS Cell Reselection (GSM->WCDMA)

Table 2-4 The Definition of Qsearch_P

If Qsearch_P is configured as 7, MS will always do measurements for the

Table 2-5 FDD_GPRS_Qoffset

When the configuration of FDD_GPRS_Qoffset is 0, it means that a WCDMA

FDD_GPRS_Qoffset and FDD_Qmin control the inter-system cell reselection