UMTS: the fusion of fixed and mobile networking

The Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) represents the emerging European standard for next generation cellular systems that transmit data as well as voice on a global basis. The UMTS goals involve the integration of evolved versions of today's second generation digital cellular systems, together with new terrestrial and satellite components. They also address a fusion of the mobile and fixed networks with a much greater role for intelligent network services. The integration scenarios take little account of the proliferation of IP based networks, and some system redesign is necessary to correct for this. To build on the strengths of GSM, the core UMTS network will evolve from the existing GSM service. UMTS support for data will probably be based on GPRS developed for GSM. Speeds available will vary from approximately 100 Kbps for a pre UMTS, GSM based system up to 2 Mbps for new UMTS radio access networks. Future mobile broadband systems may extend this up to 155 Mbps in restricted environments. The ETSI timetable for introducing these new systems shows the first equipment going into service in 2002, with full availability of third generation UMTS services by 2005.