Integration and evolution of existing mobile telecommunications systems toward UMTS

This article indicates potential evolutionary scenarios from several starting points toward the target UMTS and investigates additional options for potential cooperation between existing systems. The definition of any evolution process should start with the definition of the process's target; therefore, the author provides a brief description of the target UMTS. Five evolution scenarios toward UMTS are introduced, including a fixed network offering intelligent network and cordless terminal mobility services, cellular networks (i.e., GSM), cable networks offering wireless local loop, satellite networks, and a standalone UMTS scenario. Cooperation options for the identified systems and operators are identified.