A generic link layer in a beyond 3G multi-radio access architecture

A major aspect of beyond 3G networks is the efficient integration of multiple radio access technologies in a common network. One advantage of this multi-radio access integration will be an increased radio resource efficiency, e.g., due to a larger trunking gain and reduced radio cost per link. One realization of the multi-radio access integration is based on a generic link layer, which provides generic data processing for a multitude of radio access technologies. The generic link layer enables fast and lossless access selection. The functional architecture of the generic link layer is discussed, including the separation of radio dependent and radio independent functions. Furthermore, the relationship of the generic link layer to (multi-) radio resource management functions and radio specific transmission functions is presented and an example of access selection is described. Finally, we present how the generic link layer is included into a beyond 3G network architecture.