Radio Netwok Test Configuration for Maximum Test Coverage : Model based load generation in system verification of a GSM Base Station Controller

Abstract: GSM has been developed during more than a decade and has grown to a very complex system. Due to the wide range of functionality, the high capacity and the complexity of the BSC the testing of stability and performance is time consuming. A simulator is needed for these tests as live networks are not available at this stage in the development process. The performance and stability need to be verified for each new release of functionality. This thesis describes a conceptual model of a GSM network. The conceptual model can be used to configure a simulated radio network and to communicate what is simulated on a conceptual level rather than a detailed level. The model presented consists of several sub models. The subscriber model describes the actions and movement of subscribers; the cell model describes the radio conditions experienced by a subscriber moving within one cell; and the cell network model describes the geographical and structural properties of the network. Together the models are used to compose scenarios with the aim to describe varying radio conditions, varying subscriber behavior and varying cell structures. The aim is that different features of the Ericsson base station controller shall be used in the different scenarios. The scenarios represent different parts of a radio network connected to the same base station controller.