Network Management Convergence of Multiple Sub-networks in GSM Infrastructure

摘要

Network convergence, including service, timing and management convergence, is a trend of future telecommunication networks. Because network convergence can provide carriers with cost reduction, highly integrated applications as well as greater flexibility and functionality, new technologies and standards have driven this convergence tide. However, network management convergence, managing disparate networks with a unified platform, has been a challenging task in sophisticated telecommunication network environments. Administrators are faced with the task of managing various devices with several different applications, without an effective tool set to provide visibility across the network. In general, multiple transmission networks such as SDH, PON, HDSL and digital microwave are adopted in GSM infrastructure to transport mobile traffic between BTS and BSC. Traditional method of managing these devices is that GSM network (MSC, BSC and BTS), SDH, PON, HDSL and digital microwave are managed independently. In this paper, a converged network management platform, named OMConvergence, is proposed and demonstrated. The platform aims at managing the whole GSM network covering SDH, PON, HDSL or digital microwave sub-networks within it. The OMConvergence comprises of remote access methods of OAM message, as well as processing of multiple network management protocol such as ECC (Embedded Control Channel), Q3 and simple network management protocol (SNMP). The management and maintenance message of various devices physically converges to El timeslots at the sides of BTS, and then convert to unified IP packages before it is terminated at the side of BSC or network administration center. In addition, extended applications of OMConvergence in image monitoring of BTS surroundings are also demonstrated.