CSCE 4520, Wireless Networks and Protocols
3 semester credit hours
Course Coordinator: Ram Dantu
Textbook: No textbook, but several references and handouts in class
Catalog Description: Architecture and elements of a wireless network. Use and process of
mobility management. Signaling schemes used in wireless networks, network signaling, protocols and standards (GSM, IS-95, WAP, MobileIP, GPRS, UMTSand CDMA2000). Analyze the operation and performance of wireless protocols.
Prerequisite(s): CSCE 3600
Elective Course
Course outcomes:
1. Basic operation of a cellular network.
2. Understanding basic operation of different network elements of a cellular network.
3. Basic understanding of soft and hard handoff.
4. Basic understanding of function of interfaces between BTS, BSC, MSC and PSTN.
5. Understanding basic issues related to supporting QoS in voice and data services in cellular networks.
6. Understanding basic operation of wireless LAN networks.
Relationship between Course Outcomes and Student Outcomes for IT:
Course Outcomes / Student Outcomes1,2,4,5 / a: An ability to apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the program’s student outcomes and to the discipline
2,3 / b: An ability to analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution
2,3,4,5 / c: An ability to design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs
6 / d: An ability to function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal
6 / e: An understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities
2,3,6 / f: An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
2,3,6 / g: An ability to analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society
6 / h: Recognition of the need for and an ability to engage in continuing professional development
2,3,4 / i: An ability to use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice
1,2,5,6 / j: An ability to use and apply current technical concepts and practices in the core information technologies of human computer interaction, information management, programming, networking, and web systems and technologies
2,5,6 / k: An ability to identify and analyze user needs and take them into account in the selection, creation, evaluation, and administration of computer-based systems
5 / l: An ability to effectively integrate IT-based solutions into the user environment
4,5 / m: An understanding of best practices and standards and their application
2 / n: An ability to assist in the creation of an effective project plan
Brief list of topics to be covered
Overview of Wireless Network Operation,
Overview of different technologies and protocols, 2G, 3G, 4G, GSM, CDMA, SS7 transport protocols, IS-95 Interface,
Practical design of a cellular network
MS-BTS/BSC interfaces and protocol layers (A1-A12 interfaces), Call Processing
Handoff Management
Connection Management
BSC-BSC interface and Radio Resource Mgmt, MSC-MSC interfaces and protocols
Data over wireless networks, Quality of Service, Quantitative analysis of QoS parameters
WiFi Protocol
4G/LTE Network operation
Seminars on 4G Applications