On the optimization of 3G cellular systems deployment

This paper presents a combined analytical and practical approach in considering the third-generation mobile systems implementation. Starting from the characteristics of the second-generation cellular systems and the required next-generation features, different possible migration paths towards next-generation systems are analysed. Thus, two basic scenarios - evolutionary and innovative - are described. However, it is shown that considerable modifications in this basic approach can be introduced. A full scale of possible third-generation deployment possibilities is identified. The presented analyses are then used for defining an algorithm for the choice of an optimized solution.