the same way, requiring no behavioral change by the
subscriber. From a subscriber's perspective, they continue
receiving the same mobile services, and the services sound
better, run faster and cost less.
VCC presumes mobile handsets access a separate core
network when connected via Wi-Fi than when connected
to the outdoor macro network. By its very definition,
VCC will result in a different end-user service experience.
While there is effort underway to mask differences, the
method for supporting features as basic as supplementary
services is still undefined.
for operators evaluating approaches for delivery of a
new service. How significant are upfront capital costs?
How long will it take to deploy? What are the ongoing
operational costs? How disruptive will it be to the current
network and operations?
to service deployment, lower capital costs and reduce
overall network disruption, UMA was specified to leverage
existing, standard interfaces into core networks.
result, UMA solutions map well into existing operational
and billing systems and are operationally familiar to
network personnel.
to deploying the new VCC functional elements, operators
would need to deploy an IMS-based core voice network
(including necessary operational, billing and support
systems), as well as an interworked-WLAN solution to
provide IP access.
that standardization is required before operators can
successfully leverage any new technology. Only through
standardization can operators get a portfolio of compliant
handsets from the major suppliers, as well as interoperable
equipment from multiple infrastructure vendors.
2005, UMA technology has been implemented into fully
compliant mainstream mobile handsets from leading
suppliers (i.e. Nokia, Motorola and Samsung). Nokia
(Kineto), Motorola (Kineto), Ericsson, Alcatel and