GSM Abis/Ater Optimization Gateway

RAD's Vmux-400 GSM Abis/Ater optimization gateway maximizes bandwidth utilization in large, central or remote site installations by eliminating redundant silence and idle frames in the Abis protocol. Supporting both point to point and point to multipoint GSM Abis/Ater optimization, the Vmux-400 GSM Abis/Ater optimization gateway is particularly useful in applications where landlines do not exist or are not available, and expensive satellite and/or microwave links, with their limited bandwidth, are used to backhaul the GSM traffic. When used in conjunction with other Vmux voice compression and bandwidth optimization components, cellular operators can significantly reduce both their Operational Expenditures (OpEx) and Capital Expenditures (CapEx).

• Up to 3:1 average bandwidth optimization reduces operating expenses while enabling cellular operators to expand their network infrastructure and introduce new services

• Interoperable with the major BSS vendors, simplifying system integration

• Suitable for both satellite and terrestrial connections

• Precise clock regeneration over an IP link; no GPS required

Voice compression technologies enable mobile operators to slash bandwidth on the BSC-to-MSC segment of the backhaul network, as well as between MSCs and the MSC-to-PSTN section. Because voice traffic between the BTS and the BSC is already compressed, no further compression is recommended. By applying technology that optimizes the Abis protocol interface (the encapsulated traffic running between the BTS and the BSC), however, it is possible to realize significant reduction in bandwidth, resulting in cost savings.

The Vmux-400 GSM Abis/Ater optimization gateway is a standalone device, complementing RAD’s Vmux voice compression products, which enables cellular operators to lower backhaul costs across their Radio Access Network. The Vmux-400 optimizes the Abis (BTS to BSC) bandwidth utilization, while the A (BSC to MSC) interface and the E (MSC to MSC/ PSTN) interface are further optimized for greater bandwidth efficiency by the Vmux-2100 voice trunking gateway. The Vmux family of compressed voice and bandwidth optimization devices reduce OpEx while enabling cellular operators to expand their network infrastructure and introduce new services, without additional costs.

The Vmux-400 enables cellular operators to achieve better bandwidth utilization and reduce backhaul expenses by offering up to 3:1 bandwidth optimization. This is particularly important in remote or rural areas lacking an extensive terrestrial telecom infrastructure, where many cellular operators backhaul traffic over satellite links. In built-up areas where landlines exist but are not currently available, microwave radio links might be employed for quick connectivity.

Vmux-400 is particularly beneficial in these applications, maximizing the amount of traffic that can be supported over the limited available bandwidth of these links.

Moreover, due to the high cost of satellite and microwave transmission, the Vmux-400’s return on investment is very fast.

The Vmux-400 supports optimized data, GPRS and EDGE over multiple timeslots for cellular transmission networks, as well as standard GSM Ater optimization and AMR codec rates from 4.75 to 12.2 kbps. The standards-based Vmux-400 is interoperable with equipment from major switch vendors, such as Alcatel, Siemens, Huawei, Nokia, and Motorola, facilitating connectivity in a multi-vendor environment.

A unique feature allows for reliable regeneration of the TDM-based clock for synchronized network operation. This enables the use of packet-switched networks for the transport of cellular voice traffic.

The Vmux-400 is a 1U-high, half 19"-wide unit that can be mounted in a 19" rack. Its compact size makes the Vmux an ideal solution for installation in small BTS cabinets. It can groom the traffic of two E1s over a single E1, serial or 10/100BaseT Ethernet uplink. Vmux-400 may be supplied with an internal AC or DC power supply.