The GSM Mobile Application Part (GSM MAP) allows for the implementation of carrier-grade,
mobile network signaling infrastructure targeted to the GSM network and is the basis
for providing its mobility characteristics. The premise behind GSM MAP is to connect
the distributed switching elements, called mobile switching centers (MSCs) with
a master database called the Home Location Register (HLR). The HLR dynamically stores
the current location and profile of a mobile network subscriber. The HLR is consulted
during the processing of an incoming call. Conversely, the HLR is updated as the
subscriber moves about the network and is thus serviced by different switches within
the network.
GSM MAP has been evolving as wireless networks grow, from supporting strictly voice,
to supporting packet data services as well. The fact that GSM MAP is used to connect
NexGen elements such as the Gateway GPRS Support node (GGSN) and Serving Gateway
Support Node (SGSN) is a testament to the sound design of the GSM signaling system.
GSM MAP has several basic functions. It provides:
- Mechanism for a Gateway-MSC (GMSC) to obtain a routing number for an incoming call
- Mechanism for an MSC via integrated Visitor Location Register (VLR) to update subscriber
status and routing number.
- Subscriber CAMEL trigger data to switching elements via the VLR
- Subscriber supplementary service profile and data to switching elements via the
VLR
GSM MAP works with CAMEL to
implement the home and visited network concept that allows an operator to offer
the same set of services regardless of whether or not the subscriber is within the
native operators network, or is roaming in a partner network.
The Signalware® GSM MAP capability is an enabling component of the
Signalware family. It is utilized by applications implementing such functionalities
as:
- Home Location Registers (HLRs)
- Visitor Location Registers (VLRs)
- Mobile Switching Centers (MSCs),
- Gateway GPRS Support Nodes (GGSNs)
- Serving GPRS Support Nodes (SGSNs)
- Mobile Location Centers (MLCs)
Signalware's GSM MAP feature is utilized when an application sends a received message
to the GSM MAP library for encoding or decoding. Signalware GSM MAP flexibly allows
the application developer to have control over the messages sent and received by
the network. By utilizing Signalware's GSM MAP capability, vendors can significantly
cut time to market and reduce support and maintenance costs.
Signalware GSM MAP is provided as a library to be used with the SS7
Transaction Capabilities Application Part (TCAP). The library may be accessed
via a traditional SS7 stack or may be utilized with
SIGTRAN. This flexibility allows the Signalware GSM MAP library to be used
in implementing any of the elements requiring MAP in all current generations of
GSM mobile networks. Through the use of SIGTRAN, applications developed in second
generation (2G) networks can be migrated to a common packet network and be utilized
in NexGen mobile networks- protecting investments and aiding network evolution.
Features:
- Implements MAP - GSM phase 1, phase 2, phase 2+, phase 3, and phase 4 for 3GPP Release
6; supports MAP - GSM extensions for GPRS, 3G, and works with the CAP library.
- Supports ASN.1 encoding/decoding of all the standard operations-related messages
exchanged in the MAP interfaces,
- Provides application context name negotiation features
- Runs over ITU TCAP
For more information, please contact sales@ulticom.com.