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Rohde & Schwarz is a leading supplier of validated test cases for intersystem handover between UMTS and GSM. These test cases are supported by 2G/3G software options for the R&S CRTU-W and R&S CRTU-G protocol testers. The R&S CRTU-W/-G test solution also performs other key test cases such as cell selection/reselection or intersystem measurement control and report.

Since the Rohde & Schwarz protocol testers support circuit-switched services, GPRS, EGPRS (enhanced general packet radio service) standards as well as DTM (dual transfer mode), they can already perform tomorrow's test cases today. This test solution has been designed for test houses, conformance and precompliance test departments as well as network providers.

Intersystem handover refers to the capability of mobile terminals to switch between 2G, 2.5G and 3G telecommunication systems without encountering problems. When the UMTS network is first launched, it will not be able to provide gap-free coverage of all areas. The terminals must therefore be able to switch between UMTS and GSM without interference, even if a connection has already been established.

To meet this need, Rohde & Schwarz has expanded its R&S CRTU-W and R&S CTRU-G protocol testers by software options that support 2G/3G intersystem test cases. Offering a wide range of validated test cases in accordance with the official Global Certification Forum (GCF) prioritization, Rohde & Schwarz holds a leading position in this field.

The test cases specified in the TTCN description language cover not only handover scenarios but also various handover failure scenarios. To ensure optimum connection setup between the base station and the terminal, the terminal selects the best mobile radio cell during the cell selection/reselection test mode and then registers with this cell. The terminal performs a similar procedure with the intersystem measurement control and report, where it selects the best mobile radio cell during an established connection. As with intersystem handover from UMTS to GSM and vice versa, these tests are a significant contribution to the successful launch of UMTS.

The test solution for 2G/3G intersystem scenarios from Rohde & Schwarz consists of the Protocol Tester R&S CRTU-W for WCDMA and the Universal Protocol Tester R&S CRTU-G for GSM. Once the intersystem measurements have been performed, each of these instruments is separately available to handle test scenarios within its own specific mobile radio technology. Moreover, both testers can be easily integrated into complex test systems.

Because of this flexibility, users require fewer instruments to cover the entire range of necessary tests, thus saving money. In addition to circuit-switched services, the R&S CRTU-G already supports the GPRS, EGPRS and DTM standards. With the planned GSM service DTM, a terminal can simultaneously transmit speech and data. Since both the R&S CRTU-G and the R&S CRTU-W are ready to handle future test cases, this test solution provides high safety of investment for test houses, conformance and precompliance test departments as well as network providers.