Chapter No.

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INTRODUCTION
Wireless communication has fundamentally transformed how individuals and societies stay
connected, enabling real-time voice, text, and data transmission across the globe. Two key
technologies that have played a significant role in this transformation are Personal
Communication Services (PCS) and the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM).
These two technologies laid the groundwork for today’s mobile networks by replacing analog
systems with digital platforms that are more secure, scalable, and efficient.

Among them, GSM emerged as a global standard for mobile communication, widely adopted
due to its support for international roaming, strong security features, and efficient spectrum
utilization. It allowed users to move seamlessly across regions and even countries while staying
connected, which was a significant leap from earlier, region-locked systems. GSM also
introduced Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards, allowing personal data and credentials to be
carried independently of the handset, making mobile communication more flexible and user-
centric.

At the heart of GSM’s functionality is its call processing system, which is responsible for
managing the entire lifecycle of a call. This includes everything from establishing a call (whether
mobile-originated or mobile-terminated), authenticating the user, allocating resources, managing
mobility (like handovers between cells), and eventually terminating the call once it ends. The
concept of call processing in GSM involves several interconnected components such as the
Mobile Station (MS), Base Transceiver Station (BTS), Base Station Controller (BSC), and
Mobile Switching Center (MSC), as well as databases like the Home Location Register (HLR)
and Visitor Location Register (VLR). Together, these elements work in coordination to ensure
calls are set up swiftly, maintained securely, and terminated efficiently, even when the user is on
the move.

Understanding how call processing works in GSM provides crucial insight into the underlying
architecture and intelligence of mobile networks. It reveals how communication systems ensure
reliability, manage resources, maintain user identity and location information, and guarantee a
high quality of service. This foundational knowledge is not only vital for studying earlier
generations of mobile communication but also essential for grasping how modern technologies
like 4G, 5G, and beyond have evolved from these robust early systems

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History and Evolution of Call Processing in GSM

The call processing mechanism in GSM has undergone significant evolution since its inception
in the early 1990s. Initially designed to provide basic digital voice communication, it gradually
adapted to incorporate new features such as data services, enhanced mobility, improved security,
and better user experience. Here's a look at how it has evolved over time:

Phase of GSM Evolution Key Advancements in Call Processing

1991 - Phase 1 Basic digital voice, SIM-based authentication,
location management
Mid-90s - Phase 2 Supplementary services, improved handovers
Late 90s - Phase 3 Packet data integration (GPRS/EDGE),
CAMEL for intelligent call control
2000s – Onward International roaming, mobile data coexistence
with voice
2010s+ Transition to VoLTE, IMS (IP Multimedia
Subsystem), GSM as a fallback system

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 Chapter No. 2
Mobile call origination in GSM
Mobile Call Originating - Mobile Call Originating (MOC) refers to the process of initiating a
phone call from a mobile device (Mobile Station or MS) to another phone—whether it's another
mobile or a landline.

Fig no.1 Mobile call originating

Step-by-Step Overview of Mobile Call Originating in GSM:

1. User Dials a Number
o The mobile user enters the destination number and initiates the call.
2. Call Request Sent
o The Mobile Station (MS) sends a SETUP message to the Base Transceiver Station
(BTS) over the control channel.
3. BTS to BSC Communication
o BTS forwards the call request to the Base Station Controller (BSC), which
manages multiple BTSs and handles resource allocation.
4. BSC to MSC Handoff
o The BSC forwards the request to the Mobile Switching Center (MSC).
5. Authentication and Ciphering
o The MSC contacts the Authentication Center (AUC) to verify the user’s identity
using the SIM card.
o Once authenticated, the communication is encrypted.
6. Routing the Call
o The MSC determines how to route the call:

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  If the destination is a mobile user → it queries the HLR/VLR.
 If it's a landline or external network → the call is routed through the PSTN
(Public Switched Telephone Network).
7. Alerting the Receiver
o The destination device starts ringing, and the network waits for the receiver to
pick up.
8. Call Established
o Once the call is accepted, a Traffic Channel (TCH) is allocated.
o Voice data starts flowing between the caller and the receive
9. Call Maintainance
o During the call, the network manages handovers, power control, and quality of service
as the mobile user moves.
10. Call Termination
o When either party hangs up, the network releases the resources.

Advantages of Mobile Call Originating in GSM

1. Mobility and Flexibility - Users can initiate calls from anywhere within network
coverage, unlike traditional wired phones.

2. International Roaming Support - GSM enables users to originate calls even while
traveling across countries, thanks to standardized global protocols. The HLR/VLR
system allows quick call routing based on current location.
3. Secure Call Setup - Before a call is connected, the user is authenticated using SIM
credentials.
4. Efficient Call Routing - The MSC ensures calls are routed to the correct network or
number (mobile, landline, VoIP, etc.) with minimal delay. Uses databases like HLR and
VLR to quickly find subscriber information.
5. High Call Quality - GSM uses digital encoding and error correction for clearer audio
and reduced interference compared to analog systems.

Disadvantages of Mobile Call Originating in GSM

1. Handover Issues - In fast-moving conditions (like in vehicles), handovers can fail or

cause voice breaks.
2. Dependent on Network Coverage - Calls can fail to initiate or drop suddenly if the
user is in a weak signal area, such as underground locations or remote regions.
3. Roaming Charges - When initiating calls while roaming internationally, users may incur
high charges, depending on operator agreements and country regulations.
4. Battery Consumption - Making calls consumes more power than standby mode,
especially in poor signal conditions where the phone works harder to maintain the
connection.
5. Call Setup Delay - Due to authentication, encryption, and routing processes, there can be
a slight delay before the call is connected—especially during peak times or in congested
networks.

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 Chapter No.3
Mobile Call Terminating in GSM

Mobile Call Terminating - Mobile Call Terminating (MCT) refers to the process of receiving
an incoming call on a mobile phone within a GSM network. It’s the opposite of Mobile Call
Originating (MOC), which is about making a call. MCT involves identifying the mobile user's
location, alerting the user, and setting up a connection so the call can be answered.

Fig no.2 Mobile call terminating

Step-by-Step Overview of Mobile Call Originating in GSM:

1. Call Initiated by Caller

o Someone dials a mobile number (e.g., your number).
o The call is routed to your network’s Mobile Switching Center (MSC).
2. HLR Lookup
o The MSC queries the Home Location Register (HLR) to get information about
your current location and the Visitor Location Register (VLR) where you're
registered.
3. Routing to Serving MSC
o The call is forwarded to the MSC that currently serves your location (based on
your VLR info).
4. Paging the Mobile Station (MS)
o The MSC sends a paging request through the Base Station Controller (BSC) and
Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) in your area.
5. MS Responds

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 o Your mobile device detects the page and responds.
o The network now knows your exact location.
6. Channel Allocation
o A Traffic Channel (TCH) is allocated to carry the voice communication.
7. Alerting the Mobile
o Your phone starts ringing (this is the "alerting" phase).
8. Call Answered
o When you pick up the call, a two-way communication link is established.
o Voice traffic starts flowing between the caller and you.
9. Call Maintenance & Termination
o The call is maintained by the network, with possible handovers if you're moving.
o Once the call ends, the connection is released and resources are freed.

Advantages of Mobile Call Terminating in GSM

1. Efficient Use of Network Resources - Once the call is terminated, the radio and network
channels are released.
2. Battery Saving - Active calls consume more battery due to continuous radio
transmission
3. Billing Control - For postpaid or limited prepaid plans, ending a call stops billing

Disadvantages of Mobile Call Terminating in GSM

1. Interrupted Communication - The biggest drawback is the loss of ongoing

conversation, which can lead to misunderstandings or missed important information.
2. User Inconvenience - If the call is dropped due to network issues or errors, the user has
to redial, which can be frustrating.
3. Increased Call Setup Time - After termination, setting up a new call requires going
through the call setup process again, which takes time and resources.

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 Chapter No. 4
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN Call Originating And Call Terminating

Aspect Call Originating Call Terminating

The process when a user The process when a user receives an
Definition
initiates (makes) a call incoming call
User Role Calling party (caller) Called party (receiver)
Mobile Station (MS) of the user GSM network directs the call to the
Initiated By
making the call recipient's MS
Dialing a number and pressing Receiving an incoming call from
Triggering Event
the call button another user
Network Establishes connection from Routes and delivers the call to the
Involvement caller to receiver intended recipient
Receiver usually not charged (depends
Billing Usually charged to the caller
on operator policy)
Example You call your friend Your friend receives the call from you

Aspect Call Originating Call Terminating

Uses 900 MHz & 1800 MHz in most

Frequency Band Uses 1900 MHz in North America parts of the world (850 MHz & 1900
MHz in the U.S.)

A digital cellular network standard A globally adopted digital mobile

Technology Type
primarily used in North America communication standard

Coverage Limited to North America Worldwide coverage

Modulation Uses TDMA/CDMA Uses TDMA and FDMA

Can work without SIM in some

SIM Dependency Requires SIM card for operation
cases

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 Slightly better in urban areas due More stable over long distances due
Call Quality
to higher frequency to lower frequency

Worldwide adoption, dominant in

Adoption Primarily in the USA and Canada
Europe, Asia, and other regions

GSM is more widely used globally, whereas PCS is primarily a North American standard
operating at a different frequency band.

Chapter No. 5
GSM CHANNEL
GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) is a digital cellular technology used for
mobile communication. It divides communication into different types of channels to ensure
smooth and efficient data and voice transmission. These channels are essential for managing
calls, messages, and network control functions. GSM channels are broadly classified into two
main categories: Traffic Channels (TCH) and Control Channels.

1. Traffic Channels (TCH) – These channels are responsible for carrying actual user data,
including voice calls and data transmission such as SMS and mobile internet.
2. Control Channels – These channels manage signaling, call setup, handovers, network
synchronization, and system information exchange between mobile devices and network
towers.

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Fig no. 3 GSM Channels

The diagram categorizes GSM channels into Traffic Channels (TCH) and Control Channels
(CCH). Each of these has specific functions:

1. Traffic Channels (TCH)

Traffic channels are used for the actual transmission of voice and data between mobile users.

 Speech Channels:
o Half-rate (11.4 kbps) – Uses less bandwidth, allowing more users on the network
at the cost of reduced voice quality.
o Full-rate (22.8 kbps) – Provides better voice clarity but uses more bandwidth.
 Data Channels:
o 2.4 kbps, 4.8 kbps, and 9.6 kbps – Used for mobile internet, SMS, and other
digital services. Higher data rates allow faster communication.

2. Control Channels (CCH)

Control channels handle network signaling and management tasks, such as call setup,
handovers, and synchronization. These channels do not carry user voice or data but are essential
for smooth communication.

 Broadcast Control Channel (BCH):

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 o FCCH (Frequency Correction Channel) – Helps mobile phones adjust to the
correct frequency of the GSM network.
o SCH (Synchronization Channel) – Provides timing information for mobile
devices to synchronize with the network.
 Common Control Channel (CCCH):
o PSH (Paging Channel) – Notifies mobile phones of incoming calls and
messages.
o RACH (Random Access Channel) – Used by mobile phones to send a request to
the network when they want to establish a connection.
o AGCH (Access Grant Channel) – Grants access to a mobile phone after it
requests a connection via RACH.
 Dedicated Control Channels (DCH):
o SDCCH (Standalone Dedicated Control Channel) – Used for call setup, SMS
transmission, and authentication.
o SACCH (Slow Associated Control Channel) – Provides system information and
controls power management.
o FACCH (Fast Associated Control Channel) – Handles urgent signaling needs,
such as call handovers between network towers.

Chapter No. 6

FUTURE TRENDS IN PCS AND GSM TECHNOLOGIES

1. Transition to 5G – The evolution from GSM to 5G technology will provide significantly
faster data speeds, lower latency, and improved connectivity.
2. Enhanced Voice Communication – The adoption of VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and Wi-
Fi calling will improve voice call quality and reliability.
3. Expansion of IoT and Smart Devices – PCS and GSM will continue to support the
growing number of IoT (Internet of Things) devices, enabling automation in homes,
industries, and transportation.
4. Artificial Intelligence in Network Management – AI-based technologies will optimize
network performance, predict failures, and enhance user experience.

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5. Improved Security Measures – Advanced encryption and fraud detection mechanisms
will strengthen the security of mobile communications.
6. Satellite-Based Connectivity – Integration with satellite networks will extend coverage
to remote and rural areas, improving global accessibility.
7. Energy-Efficient Network Solutions – The implementation of eco-friendly technologies
will reduce power consumption and promote sustainable mobile communication.
8. Adoption of eSIM Technology – Embedded SIM (eSIM) technology will eliminate the
need for physical SIM cards, providing flexibility in network switching.
9. Network Virtualization – The use of software-defined networking (SDN) and network
function virtualization (NFV) will enhance efficiency and scalability.
10. Continued Relevance of GSM – Despite advancements, GSM technology will remain in
use, especially in developing regions where infrastructure upgrades are gradual.

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CONCLUSION
PCS (Personal Communication Services) and GSM (Global System for Mobile
Communications) are fundamental technologies in wireless communication, each playing a
crucial role in connectivity and mobility. PCS operates on a digital framework, offering
enhanced voice quality and data services, while GSM, as a widely adopted standard, ensures
seamless mobile communication with global interoperability. Both technologies contribute to
efficient network architecture, frequency allocation, and mobility management. Their evolution
has led to the development of more advanced wireless systems, shaping the future of mobile
communication.

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REFERENCES

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