Next Generation Wireless: 3G

Detailed Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction

This module describes the evolution of wireless networks and technology from 1st generation systems to newly emerging 3rd generation systems.

Topics covered:

  • impact of technological advancement on systems development and services
  • role of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU)

Module 2: Transmission Technologies

This module examines the service environment defined by IMT-2000.

Topics covered:

  • the “cellular’ concept
  • Signal propagation factors (e.g., multipath, fading and shadowing)
  • Multiplexing schemes
  • Access methods

Module 3: CMDA Radio Transmission Technologies

This module covers the basic characteristics and capabilities of CDMA radio transmission technology (RTT).

Topics covered:

  • system capacity
  • smart antennas
  • interference cancellation methods
  • the software radio
  • 3G RTT requirements and performance criteria

Module 4: CDMA 2000

Cdma 2000 is one of the RTT proposals submitted in response to the IMT-2000 initiative.

Topics covered:

  • Different versions of the IS-95
  • Relationship between Cdma One and Cdma 2000
  • Key characteristics of Cdma 2000

Module 5: WCDMA

WCDMA is another of the RTT proposals submitted in response to the IMT-initiative.

Topics covered:

  • WCDMA performance characteristics
  • Layers
  • Channel structure and function
  • Synchronous and asynchronous modes
  • System compatibility

Module 6: UWC-136

UWC-136 is the only proposal submitted in response to the IMT-2000 initiative that offers backward compatibility with 2nd generation, TDMA-based GSM and IS-136 systems.

Topics covered:

  • Various configurations supported by UWC-136
  • Supported switching schemes
  • Enabling technologies
  • Deployment models
  • Hierarchical cell structures

Module 7: Network Access Technology

This module details the aims and objectives of the IMT-2000 initiative.

Topics covered:

  • the “Family of Systems” concept
  • network entities
  • role of protocol layers
  • global roaming
  • importance of intelligent networks

Module 8: Future Trends

This module discusses the influence of 3G on the future of wireless communications and technology.

Topics covered:

  • Role of satellite systems
  • Fixed Wireless Access (FWA)
  • Interaction between 3G and the Internet