UMTS Radio Access Network - 3G

Framework for the 3G mobile Network.

3G Mobile Network

image ©DenMasBroto

The 3G network built upon the architecture of the GPRS / 2.5G network. The user equipment connected through the air interface to an enhanced transiever. The improved RNC (Radio Network Controller) will switch to the phone network for phone calls or switch to an enhanced data network (SGSN).

The 3G or UMTS Radio Access Network (UTRAN) network comprises 4 sub-systems :

  • Node B is the transceiver controlling the air interface. The connection is to the Radio Network Controller.
  • Radio Network Controller which controls the switching of the connection. This is to the phone network (GSM) or the data network (SGSN).
  • The core network consists of a SGSN (Serving GPRS Support Node which sends the data to the gateway (GGSN).
  • Operational Support is provided through the same mechanism as the GSM network with the VLR HLR EIR AUC OMC