DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Subject: Wireless and Mobile Network Subject Code: 22622

Semester: 6 Course: Wireless and Mobile Network
Laboratory No: L004A Name of Teacher: Trupti Patel
Name of Student: Sanket Ghadage Roll ID: 22202B0058

Experiment No: 07
Title of Experiment: Use AT commands to understand working of 3G network using 3G mobile
phone Trainer kit.

1. Minimum Theoretical Background

While EDGE fulfils the 3G specifications, most GSM.UMTS phones report EDGE
(“2.75G”) and UMTS(“3G”) functionality. The following standards are typically branded
3G: The UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunication Service) system, first offered in
2001,standardized by 3GPP,used primarily in Europe, Japan, China (however with a
different radio interface) and other regions predominated by GSM (Global Systems for
Mobile)2G system infrastructure. The cell phones are typically UMTS and GSM hybrids.
Several radio interfaces are offered ,sharing the same infrastructure: The following
common standards comply with the IMT-2000/3G standard: EDGE, a revision by the
3GPP organization to the older 2G GSM based transmission methods, utilizing the same
switching nodes, base station sites and frequencies as GPRS, but new base station and cell
phone RF circuits. It is based on the three times as efficient 8PSK modulation scheme as
supplement to the original GMSK modulation scheme. EDGE is still used extensively due
to its ease of upgrade from existing 2G GSM infrastructure and cell-phones.

The 3G-324M protocol operates over an established circuit switched connection between
two communicating peers. 3G-324M is an umbrella specification to enable conversational
multimedia communication over Circuit Switched (CS) networks and has been adopted
by the 3GPP. 3G-324M is based on the ITU-T H.324 specification for multimedia
conferencing over Circuit switched networks. The 3G-324M specification using the
Circuit switched network allows delay sensitive conversational multimedia services such
as: 1. Videoconferencing for personal and business use 2. Multimedia entertainment
services 3. Telemedicine 4. Surveillance 5. Live Video Broadcasting– Cable TV On-
theGo 6. Video-on-demand (movies, news clips)
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2. Resources required (Additional)

Sr. Instrument /Components Specification Quantity Remarks

No.
1. 3G mobile phone Trainer Kit.

2. 3G activated SIM card(s) of

any service provider supporting
TriBand UMTS
2100/1900/850MHz
Or 2100/1900/900MHz
3. Power Supply, Hands free kit,
CRO/Spectrum Analyzer,
Connecting wires, Antenna with
coaxial cable, Micro SD Card
4. Computer system A basic computer
system with minimum
configuration and
operating system like
windows
2000/xp/vista/2007/
2010
5. GSM Modem SIM 300 or higher

6. SIM Card Any 3G network SIM

card

7. Serial Cable DB-9 serial connector

8. Adapter 12V DC

3. Observations:
Observe command response and write their Responses.
(Use blank sheet provided if space not sufficient)
Sr. No. Command Response
1. AT+CORS ACOPS:O
2. +CST=? +CS
3. AD+CREG? +CREG(9-2)
4. AD+CDEG=? +CREG(0.2)OK
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4. Practical related Questions

1. Compare 2G and 3G network, GSM and GPRS. Ans:
2G Network (Second Generation):

• Technology: Digital cellular technology.

• Speed: 2G networks offer speeds ranging from 50 Kbps to 100 Kbps.
• Main Purpose: Primarily designed for voice communication and SMS (Short Message
Service).
• Data Transmission: Limited data services with slower speeds; primarily used for voice calls
and text messaging.
• Example: GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) is the main standard for 2G
networks.
• Bandwidth: Narrowband, supporting limited multimedia services.

3G Network (Third Generation):

• Technology: Advanced digital cellular technology offering higher speeds and bandwidth.
• Speed: 3G networks provide speeds ranging from 384 Kbps to 2 Mbps, with newer variants
offering up to 42 Mbps or higher.
• Main Purpose: Designed for voice calls, video calls, high-speed internet, and multimedia
services.
• Data Transmission: Enhanced data services, enabling web browsing, video streaming, and
online gaming.
• Example: WCDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access), UMTS (Universal Mobile
Telecommunications System) are common standards for 3G networks.
• Bandwidth: Wideband, allowing for higher data throughput and improved multimedia
support.

2. State the advanced features of 3G communication.

Ans:

1. Higher Data Transfer Speeds

• Speed: 3G provides data transfer speeds ranging from 384 Kbps to 2 Mbps (and even higher
with advanced 3G technologies like HSPA+), allowing for faster web browsing, video
streaming, and real-time communication.
• Enhanced User Experience: These speeds enable better performance for data-intensive
applications such as mobile video conferencing, live streaming, and large file downloads.

2. Mobile Internet Access

• Broadband Internet: 3G enables reliable, high-speed internet access on mobile devices,

supporting web browsing, social media, online banking, and e-commerce on the go.
• Always-On Connectivity: Unlike older technologies, 3G allows mobile devices to maintain a
constant connection to the internet, which is essential for real-time applications like push
notifications and instant messaging.
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3. Video Calling

• Video Telephony: One of the standout features of 3G is video calling, enabling users to make
real-time video calls between mobile devices. This feature utilizes both voice and video data
to create a more immersive communication experience.
• Improved Multimedia Communication: Beyond just voice calls, video calling allows
people to communicate face-to-face over long distances, making it a popular feature in
personal and business communications.

4. Improved Voice Quality

• Enhanced Call Quality: 3G provides clearer and more reliable voice calls, utilizing advanced
digital voice coding and improved error correction.
• Wideband Audio: Some 3G networks also support wideband audio, improving the frequency
range of the voice signal for more natural-sounding conversations.

3. How automatic selection of network is done? Ans:

How Automatic Network Selection Works:

Automatic selection is a combination of network detection, network preference, and

user settings. Here's a breakdown of how this process typically works:

1. Device Startup or Network Search

• When a mobile device (e.g., smartphone) is powered on, it begins by searching for nearby
cellular networks. The device scans all available frequencies (GSM, 3G, 4G, etc.) to detect
signals from local cell towers.
• The device checks for the Signal Strength and Network Availability. If the signal strength is
strong enough and the network is available, it proceeds to the next step of selection.

2. Network List and SIM Profile

• The device first checks the SIM card (Subscriber Identity Module) for its network
preferences and supported technologies (GSM, 3G, 4G, etc.). The SIM card typically stores
network-related information, including:
o The Home Network: The carrier that issued the SIM card.
o The Preferred Networks: Networks that the device should prioritize when available.
• Based on the information stored on the SIM card or phone settings, the device has a
predefined list of preferred networks or network operators.

3. Choosing the Best Available Network

• The device scans for networks that are available in the current location. It may detect:
o Home Network (the user’s primary carrier). o Roaming Networks (local or
foreign networks that have a roaming agreement with the home carrier).
• The device will automatically try to register with the home network first, as this is the
preferred choice for the best services (no roaming charges, faster speeds, etc.).

Factors influencing selection include:

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• Signal Strength: The stronger the signal, the more likely the device will connect to that
network.
• Network Type: If a 3G or 4G network is available and the device supports it, the device will
prefer to connect to those for faster data speeds.
• SIM Settings: The SIM card may restrict roaming or limit network selection based on region,
network compatibility, or roaming settings (e.g., "roaming only" mode).

4. Network Registration

 After detecting a network, the device registers with it. The registration process involves:
o Authentication: The device verifies its identity with the network (using IMSI or
IMEI).
o Subscription Validation: The network checks if the user is allowed to use its
services (based on SIM card data, account status, etc.).

If registration is successful, the device establishes a connection to the network, enabling

voice, text, and data services.

5. Roaming Selection (if applicable)

• If the device is outside its home network’s coverage area, it will automatically search for a
roaming partner network.
• The device can select a roaming network based on:
o Roaming Agreements: The device will choose a network that has a roaming
agreement with the home carrier.
o Preferred Roaming Networks: Some devices have predefined roaming partners to
connect to in specific countries or regions.

6. Manual Network Selection Option (User Preference)

 Users can manually choose a network by going into their mobile device’s network settings.
This allows users to:
o Select a specific network (e.g., for troubleshooting or preferred operator).
o Switch off automatic selection (useful when roaming, to avoid excessive roaming
charges).
o Force the device to connect to a particular band or network type (e.g., 4G, 3G).

7. Network Switching During Use

 If the network conditions change (e.g., the device moves to a different area, or the signal
weakens), the mobile device may automatically switch to another available network to
maintain the best connection. This is done without user intervention and ensures the best
possible service.
8. LTE and 5G Networks (Advanced Selection)

• LTE/4G and 5G networks may require specific configurations (e.g., Band Support) to work.
The device will search for available LTE or 5G signals and connect accordingly if supported.
• The device can switch between 2G, 3G, 4G, or 5G based on availability, signal strength, and
the user's mobile data preferences.
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4. How network availability is decided? what are the criteria to do so? How to improve
network availability to the user? Ans:
Network availability refers to whether a mobile network can provide service to a user’s
device, such as voice calls, data access, or messaging. Several factors influence the
decision and status of network availability. The device and the network work together to
determine if a connection can be established. Here's how this process works:

Key Criteria for Network Availability:

1. Signal Strength o Signal coverage is the primary factor in determining network

availability. If the signal strength is strong enough (within a specified threshold), the
network is available to the user.
o Signal strength is measured in dBm (decibels milliwatts). A higher signal strength
(closer to 0 dBm) typically means better availability, while a weaker signal (more
negative dBm) means poorer availability.
2. Network Infrastructure (Coverage Area) o Geographic Coverage: The extent of
the network's coverage area (urban, suburban, rural) determines availability. Networks are
usually deployed in cell towers covering specific areas, and availability is decided by the
proximity of these towers. o Cell Tower Density: The number of towers and their location
is critical in ensuring the network can handle the demand for service, especially in densely
populated regions.
o Frequency Band: Different networks use different frequency bands (e.g., 2G, 3G, 4G
LTE, 5G). Lower frequencies (like 700-900 MHz) have wider coverage, while higher
frequencies (like 1800 MHz or higher) provide faster speeds but have more limited
range.
3. Network Type and Technology
o Availability is also determined by the type of network available in the region, such as:
 2G (GSM, CDMA) for basic voice and text services.
 3G (UMTS, WCDMA) for moderate data services.
 4G (LTE) for high-speed data.
 5G for ultra-fast data speeds and ultra-low latency.
o Availability also depends on which technology the device and network support. For
instance, if a device only supports 3G and the area has 4G, it may still be able to
access 3G services but not 4G.
4. Network Congestion
o When there are too many devices connected to a network (especially in high-traffic
areas like stadiums, concerts, or urban centers), the network may become congested,
making it difficult for the user to get reliable access. Even if the signal strength is
good, congestion can affect service availability.
o Bandwidth allocation and traffic management systems can impact availability
during peak times.
5. Roaming Agreements
o When the user is outside the home network’s coverage area (in another region or
country), network availability depends on whether there is a roaming agreement
between the home operator and the local network. If no agreement exists, the device
will be unable to connect to the network.
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6. Environmental Factors
o Physical Obstructions: Buildings, mountains, and dense forests can block signal
propagation and reduce network availability.
o Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions like heavy rain, storms, or snow
can also disrupt signal quality.
o Interference: Other electronic devices, such as microwaves, radio towers, or even
other networks, can interfere with the network signal and affect availability.
7. Device Settings o A user's device settings (like Airplane Mode, Network Selection
Mode, or SIM Card settings) can influence network availability. If the device is set to
restrict certain types of connections (e.g., 2G only, manual network selection), it may
limit the availability of some networks.

5. What is the effect of antenna location in the cell, on the network availability?
Ans:
Effects of Antenna Location on Network Availability:

1. Coverage Area and Signal Strength

o Antenna Height: The height at which the antenna is placed is crucial for signal
propagation. A higher antenna generally provides better coverage because it can
transmit signals over a larger area and overcome physical obstructions (e.g.,
buildings, trees, and other obstacles). Higher antenna placement helps reduce signal
blockage and interference from nearby structures.
 Effect: A well-placed high antenna can ensure that the cell’s coverage area is
maximized, improving signal strength and network availability. Lower
antennas may result in poor signal coverage, particularly in urban or
mountainous areas.
2. Signal Quality and Interference o Obstructions and Terrain: Antennas located in areas
with a lot of obstructions (e.g., dense urban areas with tall buildings, or inside valleys)
may experience signal degradation. Antennas should ideally be placed in open areas to
minimize signal attenuation due to buildings, trees, or other physical obstacles.
 Effect: If an antenna is located in an area with poor line-of-sight (e.g.,
between tall buildings), the signal can be blocked or reflected, leading to
lower signal strength, increased interference, and degraded network
availability. In such cases, the coverage might be spotty, and the network
may experience frequent call drops or poor data speeds.
3. Cell Overlap and Handover
o Antenna Placement in Adjacent Cells: Antennas placed in the right locations ensure
proper cell overlap, which helps in handover between cells when a user moves
across a network area. A good handover mechanism allows users to experience
seamless transitions as they move between different cells without interrupting the
service.
 Effect: Poor antenna placement can create dead zones or regions where
handovers between cells are difficult. This causes users to experience
dropped calls or loss of data connection when moving from one cell to
another, affecting overall network availability.
4. Load Balancing and Network Traffic o Capacity and Traffic Management: The
location of antennas influences the traffic load in a cell. If antennas are placed too close
together in high-traffic areas, it can lead to network congestion as too many devices try
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to connect to the same cell. Alternatively, poorly placed antennas in low-traffic areas
may cause underutilization of the network.
 Effect: If antennas are poorly positioned or not strategically distributed, the
network may face overloaded cells (high congestion in some areas), leading
to reduced availability and slower data speeds for users. Ensuring antennas
are placed optimally, based on expected traffic patterns, helps in evenly
distributing the load and maintaining good network availability.
5. Network Coverage in Rural and Urban Areas
o Rural Areas: In rural regions with fewer physical obstructions, antennas can be
placed with more flexibility. However, long-range coverage is still critical, and antenna
location and height must be optimized to provide service to vast areas. o Urban
Areas: In dense cities, antennas may need to be placed in higher locations or on tall
buildings to avoid interference from nearby structures. In such areas, antennas may also
need to be part of small cell networks to provide denser coverage.
 Effect: Poor antenna placement in urban environments, especially where
buildings block signals, can create signal dead zones or reduce network
availability due to weak or inconsistent coverage.

Conclusion:
This experiment demonstrated the configuration of Wi-Fi settings via mobile tethering and the
use of AT commands to understand 3G networks. We explored network selection, availability
factors, and the impact of antenna placement on connectivity. The study provided practical
insights into mobile communication and network optimization for better performance.

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