GSM SOLUTIONS GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900

Nortel GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor

BASE TRANSCEIVER STATION CUSTOMER PRODUCT OVERVIEW

2007 Nortel Printed in France NORTEL CONFIDENTIAL: The information contained in this document is the property of Nortel. Except as specifically authorized in writing by Nortel, the holder of this document shall keep the information contained herein confidential and shall protect same in whole or in part from disclosure and dissemination to third parties and use same for evaluation, operation and maintenance purposes only. The content of this document is provided for information purposes only and is subject to modification. It does not constitute any representation or warranty from Nortel as to the content or accuracy of the information contained herein, including but not limited to the suitability and performances of the product or its intended application.

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NOTICE
This document presents the Nortel GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor Base Transceiver Station and describes the corresponding hardware modules and features. For more details on BTS 18000 Outdoor solution, please contact your Nortel representative.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
BTS Highlights .............................................................................................................. 5 Physical Characteristics................................................................................................ 6 RADIO Features ........................................................................................................... 6 Operation and Maintenance..................................................................................... 7 Physical Layout............................................................................................................. 8 Radio Configurations .................................................................................................. 11 Connection to the Base Station Controller.................................................................. 12 Base Station Controller Dependency.......................................................................... 13 BTS site extension...................................................................................................... 14 Installation ...................................................................................................................15 Shipping and Installation............................................................................................. 15 Floor Space ................................................................................................................ 15 Power Supply.............................................................................................................. 16 Environment................................................................................................................ 17 Protection.................................................................................................................... 17 Operation and Maintenance ....................................................................................... 18 Operation .................................................................................................................... 18 Initialization ............................................................................................................ 18 Configuration.......................................................................................................... 18 Fault-monitoring/recovery ...................................................................................... 18 Maintenance ............................................................................................................... 19 Component Description ............................................................................................. 20 BTS 18000 Architecture.............................................................................................. 20 Interface Control Module (ICM) .................................................................................. 21 Functions................................................................................................................ 21 Architecture ............................................................................................................ 21 Interface Module (IFM) ............................................................................................... 22 Functions................................................................................................................ 22 Architecture ............................................................................................................ 22 Spare Module (SPM) .................................................................................................. 22 Function ................................................................................................................. 22 Architecture ............................................................................................................ 22 Alarms and Bridge Module (ABM) .............................................................................. 22

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Bridge Functions .................................................................................................... 22 Alarm collector functions ........................................................................................ 23 Architecture ............................................................................................................ 23 Interface Control and alarme Module (RICAM & ICAM) ............................................. 23 Functions................................................................................................................ 23 Architecture ............................................................................................................ 24 Radio Modules (RM)................................................................................................... 25 Functions................................................................................................................ 25 Architecture ............................................................................................................ 26 Module Packaging.................................................................................................. 27 Radio performance................................................................................................. 27 Duplexer and combiner modules ................................................................................ 28 Module Packaging.................................................................................................. 31 Software...................................................................................................................... 31 APPENDIX 1: APPLICABLE SPECIFICATIONS (Outdoor Products) ...................... 32 APPENDIX 2: ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE .................................................. 33 APPENDIX 3: ABBREVIATIONS................................................................................. 34

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BTS HIGHLIGHTS
The GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor is a part of a new Nortel family of BTS that includes the Indoor and Outdoor versions of the high capacity BTS 18000. This new family of BTS is based on a new highly integrated radio module (RM) that provides the equivalent of three GSM/GPRS/EDGE transceiver channels including power amplifier function. This represents further integration of the successful single module DRX (Driver Receiver) approach for the receiver, transmitter, and frame processor, used in Nortel legacy S8000 and S12000 BTS. The BTS 18000 represents unprecedented capacity and flexibility and complements the S8000 or S12000 BTS in our portfolio for greenfield site deployments as well as legacy BTS replacement or complement. The BTS 18000 provides continuity to our S8000 and S12000 BTS by its ability to be operated as a synchronized site extension to increase the capacity of existing S8000 or S12000 BTS sites. The BTS 18000, which can contain 54 GSM carriers in three cabinets, is a high capacity, high density platform reducing the cost of ownership for GSM networks. The BTS 18000 is also able to address small configurations such as S111 or O3. In addition, two GSM frequency bands can be supported in the same cabinet. The BTS 18000 is also a platform for future data application evolution of GSM networks which require GPRS and EDGE services. The BTS 18000 uses the latest technology to provide operators with: High capacity accommodating up to 18 GSM TRX per cabinet in an optimized and dense packaging. High level of integration contributes to a significant reduction in required floor space, size and equipment operating costs. This concept is adapted to stringent environmental constraints and is leading to the best economic trade-off between initial and final capacity. In addition, the BTS 18000 supports asymmetrical radio configurations such as S963. Compatibility with the S8000 and S12000 BTS, through existing site synchronization or through the possibility to reuse existing site equipment (such as an S8000/S12000 Outdoor plinth).

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PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The primary physical characteristics of the BTS 18000 Outdoor are optimized to meet the temperature and mechanical requirements of outdoor sites: High density / low volume (18 TRX per cabinet and 79 liters (2.8 cu. ft.) per transceiver); Full frontal accessibility for ease of maintenance; Limited floor space: 1.96 m2 / 21.1 sq. ft., including space required for clearance, installation and maintenance. There is no clearance required at the back of the cabinet. Fully equipped cabinet for fast transportation and installation; Easy handling; Ingress protection (IP55 compliance) and weatherproof casing; Power backup via internal battery or External Battery Cabinet; Extended temperature range (-40C to +50C)/(-40F to +122F).

RADIO FEATURES
The BTS 18000 offers a set of features enhancing the Quality of Service and the spectrum efficiency of the network such as: Support for GSM frequency bands: GSM 850, GSM 900 / E-GSM 900, GSM 1800 and GSM 1900; GSM 900/1800 and GSM 850/1900 Dual Band configurations with single or dual BCCH, built in a single or in multiple BTS 18000 cabinets; EGSM/1800 and GSM 900/1900 Dual Band configurations with dual BCCH. High output power with a range of Power Amplifiers going from 30W up to 60W; Guaranteed 110 dBm dynamic single-branch receive sensitivity (GMSK modulation) at the BTS antenna connector without any tower-mounted Low Noise Amplifier;

Best-in-class radio performance: -

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Improved receiver diversity gain using a Nortel specific algorithm providing up to 5 dB gain;

Full support of GPRS data services (CS1 and CS2 coding schemes and hardware ready for CS3 and CS4); Full support of EDGE 8PSK modulation; Spectrum efficiency optimization with the support of the undisputed Nortel capacity features that provide high quality voice and data services to a dense subscriber population in a limited spectrum and at competitive cost. Synthesized frequency hopping in all hybrid coupling types.

OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE High level of availability through optional duplication of switching, synchronization and control unit (working in active/stand-by mode) and optional N+1 redundancy for rectifiers. Monitoring of internal and external alarms, through internal bus and alarm loops. Remote configuration management from the OMC-R (site, sector, Abis, TRX). Remote software background downloading.

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PHYSICAL LAYOUT
The BTS 18000 Outdoor Base Station can be housed in one or several cabinets depending on the required capacity: Only one cabinet is required, namely the Base Cabinet, if the GSM capacity does not exceed 18 TRX. Extension Cabinets can be added; each cabinet can support up to 18 TRX.

BTS 18000 outdoor cabinet overview (door closed)

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The dimensions of the BTS 18000 Outdoor base cabinet are:

Height Width Depth Its maximum weight is:

1500 mm (59.06 in) 1350 mm (53.15 in) 735 mm (28.94 in)

Fully equipped (with 6 RM) Pre-cabled, non equipped cabinet

505 kg (1,113 lbs) 191 kg (421.37 lbs)

The following diagram shows the position of the modules in the fully populated cabinet.

BTS 18000 Outdoor equipped cabinet with door opened, front view (here with the ICM, it can be further optimized with RICAM or ICAM)

The BTS 18000 outdoor cabinet consists of the following specific elements: Outdoor enclosure including AC Distribution Unit (ADU); AC/DC power supply: Universal Compact Power System (UCPS);

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Environmental Control Unit (ECU); User Rack Space (4U x 19in) and its associated User ICO.

The cabinet of the BTS 18000 indoor and outdoor variants shares the following elements: Back-planes and ICO: Compact Interface Back Plane (CIBP), Digital Back-plane (DBP), Radio ICO (RICO); up to two Quad Interface Modules (IFM); One Interface Control Module (ICM) or two ICM (configuration with redundancy); Up to two spare modules (SPM); Up to two Alarm Bridge Modules (ABM); Up to six Radio Modules (RM or HPRM); Up to six Dual Duplexer Modules (DDM) with optional VSWR meter. DDM are physically grouped into 2 combiner racks. The digital rack consists of the association of IFM, ICM, a second ICM (or the SPM, Spare Module filler), ABM and RM modules. There are two digital racks per cabinet. The association of one combiner rack and one digital rack will be further named shelf. The BTS 18000 contains two shelves. The CIBP / IFM / 2xICM / ABM set is replaced by the RICAM by default, which is an optimized module physically grouping these functions into one single module. RICAM is internally redundant, while ICAM is a non redundant module which is equivalent to the CIBP / IFM / ICM / ABM set. RICAM, ICAM, IFM, ICM and spare modules are not required in a BTS 18000 extension cabinet.

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CAPACITY AND CONFIGURATION

RADIO CONFIGURATIONS
The BTS 18000 is designed to enable: Smooth and flexible capacity expansion from an omni directional BTS with 3 TRX in 1 cabinet (O3) up to a tri-sectorial BTS with 16 TRX per sector in three cabinets (S16-16-16). Higher capacity support via a future software release is planned; Support of asymmetrical configurations, such as S963 for instance; Highest capacity in the industry with 6-TRX tri-sectorial configurations in a single radio cabinet (S666); S8000 or S12000 extension capability via synchronization with the BTS 18000; Flexible coupling options: Duplexers to get the highest RF output power that provide maximum coverage; TX Filters to maintain the duplexer link budget but enabling capacity to grow beyond 1 TRX per sector by adding antennas; 2-way, 4-way and 3-way (future) hybrid combiner to grow capacity without adding antennas; Other options can be further studied with the operator;

Possibility to upgrade capacity with cabinet addition without any change on pre-existing site configuration; Various dual-band configurations using all types of coupling system. The Nortel GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor can be housed in several cabinets. The number of Nortel GSM BTS 18000 cabinets depends on the required capacity. Only one cabinet is required for configurations with a capacity up to 18 carriers, namely the Base Cabinet. For higher capacity configurations one or two additional Extension Cabinets are required. Capacity and configuration upgrades are particularly flexible and easy, allowing a maximum capacity of: 18 carriers per sector; 54 carriers per BTS in only three cabinets.

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BTS 18000 is introduced with: a maximum configuration of S888 or O16 TRX capacity on BSC2G; a maximum configuration of S16 16 16 or O16 capacity on BSC 3000.

The following diagram gives examples of configurations, which can be implemented in one to three BTS 18000 radio cabinets:

O3

S11 S33

S111

O12 O18

S66 S99

S444 S666

S12-12 S7S10S7

S555 S777

S18-18 S12 -12

S12-12-12 S888

S13-13-13 S9 -S9 -9

S12 S16-16-16 -12-12

BTS 18000 capacity and possible configurations

CONNECTION TO THE BASE STATION CONTROLLER

The BTS 18000 is connected to the Nortel BSC through PCM links using Nortel Abis interface. Only two PCM timeslots over the Abis interface are required for each 8-radio timeslot TRX. Only one PCM timeslot is necessary for signaling for configurations up to S333, 3 for up to S999, 6 for up to S161616. The BTS

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18000 can support 8 E1/T1 PCM links with a granularity of 4 E1/T1 per IFM board. The drop and insert capability is used to reduce the number of PCM links needed to connect the BTS to their Base Station Controller. This can be implemented through Chain connection or Loop connection, depending on the level of required reliability. The BTS 18000 supports the drop and insert function in exactly the same way as the BTS S8000 and S12000. Therefore, it is possible to have S8000, S12000 and BTS 18000 on the same chain or loop.

BASE STATION CONTROLLER DEPENDENCY

The BTS 18000 can be controlled from a BSC 2G or from a BSC 3000. However, BTS 18000 will offer its maximum configuration using the last generation of Nortel BSC (BSC 3000). The following table gives the maximum TRX units and maximum configurations allowed on a BTS18000 using BSC 2G or BSC 3000:

Max number BSC Type of TRX per cabinet BSC 2G BSC 3000 BSC 3000* 18 18 18 * Future evolution

Max number of TRX per cell 16 16 18

Max number of TRX per site 24 48 54

Max omni / trisectorial configurations 1O16 / 2S888 1O16 / 3S16-16-16 1O18 / 3S18-18-18

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Compatibility with S8000

BTS SITE EXTENSION

The BTS 18000 can extend existing BTS S8000 or BTS S12000 sites. The BTS 18000 then operates with the BTS S8000 and BTS S12000 (with CMCF phase 2 only) in synchronized mode. Therefore all spectrum optimization techniques are applicable. The BTS 18000 is introduced at sector basis as a co-localized site, synchronized on CBCF of BTS S8000 or BTS S12000 existing site. Each of the BTS manages its own cells. Typical synchronized sites are presented hereafter.

S8000
E1/T1

18000 S8000 18000

S8000
E1/T1

S8000

18000 S8000 18000

E1/T1

BTS 18000

Extension of S8000 S899 in 2 Cabinets

E1/T1

BTS 18000

BTS 18000

Extension of S8000 S16 16 16 in 4 Cabinets

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INSTALLATION
SHIPPING AND INSTALLATION
The GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor is usually installed either at ground/street-level, on a rooftop or indoor. Connections are situated on the front of the cabinet, therefore it is not necessary to use a plinth. Nortel designed the GSM BTS 18000 so that it can be shipped and delivered fully equipped with all functional modules (except batteries) and pre-tested. For challenging installations, the operator can easily depopulate the GSM BTS 18000. When depopulated, the operator may transport the GSM BTS 18000 to a rooftop by a crane, or by standard elevator.

FLOOR SPACE
Three typical GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor installation configurations are illustrated below:

S12000 Outdoor Base BTS 18000 Outdoor Base or extension cabinet

1.350 1.350

1.070

Total Area: 1.210 2.09 m

1.450

Front Front access access for maintenance for maintenance

GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor Installation Configurations

The GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor requires a floor space limited to 1.96 m (21.1 sq. ft.) per cabinet, because installation and maintenance are performed from the front, with the cabinet doors in a 90 position.

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Moreover, as the air intake is placed on the front of the BTS, the operator is able to install the cabinets against a wall without the need for any clearance at the rear. The maximum cable length between two cabinets is 10 meters (32.8 ft.).

POWER SUPPLY
The GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor is supplied with standard single, split, or threephase AC power supply (230 V 50/60 Hz). The primary power supply system (UCPS) delivers -48V DC voltage from the AC input. It includes a rack with up to five 1400W rectifiers (4+1 for redundancy). Rectifiers' -48V outputs are tied together to the DC distribution unit (ADU). The entire system and the optional internal batteries are controlled by a power controller (CCU). The rectifiers deliver 1400W at the 48 V DC output. 1400W rectifiers provide the capability to handle fast battery charging for the highest capacity configurations. The rectifiers have a large input voltage range with integrated power factor correctors. The output floating voltage automatically adjusts to the level of a control signal that is proportional to the battery temperature. Each rectifier has its own AC, DC and over-heating alarm signals. The BTS 18000 Outdoor can optionally be equipped with an internal battery for power backup. Another possibility is to use an additional ancillary battery cabinet to allow a more durable backup. Specific needs can be addressed by provision of additional backup capacity with customized solutions.

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ENVIRONMENT
The GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor is designed to be started up when the inside equipment air temperature is above 5C / 41F. If the in-temperature is below 5C / 41F, the heaters are switched on so that the BTS can start up. When switched on, the GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor operates in an external ambient air temperature range of -40C to +50C / -40F to +122F, with an absolute humidity level of 36 g/m3, and under a maximum solar radiation of 2 1120 W/m . The specifications are listed in Appendix 1, and more detailed environmental performances are defined in Appendix 2.

PROTECTION
As an outdoor product, the GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor is designed to resist ingress and attack. As such, it meets IP55 standards, as well as Bellcore standard TA-NWT-000487 (all other applicable specifications are summarized in Appendix 1). The equipment is protected against lightning surge.

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OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE

OPERATION
The GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor performs the operation functions under the control of the Base Station Controller (BSC), through the Abis interface. These functions are initialization, configuration and fault-management/recovery. INITIALIZATION A hardware reset or a re-initialization message from the BSC triggers the GSM BTS 18000 startup. Software downloading may be initiated for reinitializing the BTS or updating the software. All these operations can be handled remotely from the OMC-R. It shall be noted that the BTS 18000 supports the BTS Software Background Downloading. This particular feature enables a software download without impact on the carried traffic. It is however necessary to restart the BTS once the new software load is downloaded. CONFIGURATION All parameters are programmed under the control of the BSC, including: Abis interface (traffic and signaling channels); Radio characteristics (frequency, power, BCCH filling, etc.); TDMA frame; PCM interfaces (error rate, etc.); Connections established in the switch.

FAULT-MONITORING/RECOVERY The BTS 18000 Outdoor provides a high degree of service availability using an efficient fault detection and correction process based on the following principles: Active/stand-by redundancy for the RICAM or ICM (control, switch, clock, ICM boards) and optional N+1 redundancy for the rectifiers and the RM. Permanent monitoring of all external physical alarms, reporting of internal faults to the Base Control Function and internal tests; Immediate local corrective action for major failures, with isolation of the faulty element and reconfiguration (when duplicated);

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 Soft blocking of the faulty module, whenever possible; Reporting of all events to the BSC, for observation and corrective actions in the event of minor failure; On-going update of standby modules to limit information loss in the event of a switchover.

MAINTENANCE
Front access to the installed electronic and environmental control equipment in the GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor cabinet facilitates maintenance. An inventory capability is available with the Local Maintenance Terminal. It allows retrieving the following information: PEC code, modules designation and Serial Number. This inventory management information will be remotely available at the OMC-R (Operation and Maintenance Center) or through an external interface (future software feature, the hardware is ready).

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COMPONENT DESCRIPTION
BTS 18000 ARCHITECTURE
The BTS 18000 modularity was defined in order to reach the best compromise between the following constraints: Flexible growth from S111 up to S16-16-16; High reliability and ease of maintenance (only front access to the BTS 18000 Outdoor cabinet is needed for capacity growth and maintenance); Maximize the RF power output.

Combiner Rack

D D M

D D M

D D M

Combiner Rack

D D M

D D M

D D M

Combiner Rack

D D M

D D M

D D M

Shelf 1

Shelf 1

Digital Rack

Digital Rack

Shelf 1
RM RM RM

Digital Rack

I F M

I C M

A B M

RM

RM

RM

A B M

A B M

RM

RM

RM

Combiner Rack

Combiner Rack

D D M

D D M

D D M

D D M

D D M

D D M

Combiner Rack

D D M

D D M

D D M

Shelf 2

Shelf 2

Digital Rack

Digital Rack

Shelf 2

Digital Rack

I F M
Redundant

I C M

A B M

RM

RM

RM

A B M

RM

RM

RM

A B M

RM

RM

RM

Abis

Base Cabinet (up to 6 RMs/18 TRXs)

Extension Cabinet (up to 6 RMs/18 TRXs)

Extension Cabinet (up to 6 RMs/18 TRXs)

Traffic and O&M link Abis link : up to 8E1/T1 RF link : TX and RX Main/Div Internal Bus

Architecture Diagram of the BTS 18000 Outdoor (here with the ICM, it can be further optimized with RICAM or ICAM)

The architecture of the BTS 18000 Outdoor, as illustrated in the diagram above, is based on the following modules: the various types of Radio Modules, the DDM, the ICAM or the RICAM, the ICM, the IFM, the ABM, and the CIBP. One single set of spares can be provisioned with these particular modules for both BTS 18000 and BTS 6000.

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INTERFACE CONTROL MODULE (ICM)

FUNCTIONS The ICM covers all the functions related to a complete site management: Support of Drop and insert facilities for the PCM links with the BSC; Reference clock for the air interface, synchronized on the Abis PCM interface, a synchronizing BTS or a GPS antenna; GSM_TIME calculations with possible network synchronization; Switching of PCM slots; Conversion of electrical signals, from external to internal PCM data formats; Concentration of the data flow of the BTS; Configuration and supervision of all modules.

ARCHITECTURE The ICM is used in the BTS 18000 main cabinet only: it is not present in the extension cabinets. It is designed to manage the whole BTS 18000 site. The ICM module is composed of a single board with connections on the Compact Interface Back Panel (CIBP) and on the front panel. A second ICM can optionally be provided within the main BTS cabinet for redundancy purposes. This redundancy is dynamic: the swap of ICM from passive to active is automatic in case of trouble on the former active one.

IFM1 IFM

I C M 1

A B M

R M 1

R M 2

R M 3

Abis

IFM0 IFM

I C M 0

A B M

R M 1

R M 2

R M 3

ICM0=master ICM
Redundant ICM configuration architecture

It shall be noted that the RICAM and ICAM feature in one single module the functions of the ICM together with an ABM, an IFM and a CIBP. ICAM and RICAM are described further in this document.

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INTERFACE MODULE (IFM)

FUNCTIONS The Interface Module is used in the BTS 18000 main cabinet only: it is not present in the extension cabinets. Its main function is to provide secondary protection on the PCM links. It provides the following access for the ICM: E1 (120 ohms) or T1 (100 ohms) connectivity on the ABIS link with secondary protection and filters (4 PCM per IFM); Connectivity to an external synchronization source (synchronizing BTS or GPS antenna); Connectivity for ABIS extension and redundant ICM options.

Adaptation balluns can be provided for E1 75 ohms connectivity. ARCHITECTURE The IFM module is composed of a single board with connections on the Compact Interface Back Panel (CIBP) and on the front panel. The E1/T1 IFM is a passive board.

SPARE MODULE (SPM)

FUNCTION The Spare Module (SPM) is reserved for future use in the BTS 18000 main cabinet only: it is not present in the extension cabinets. The SPM will be designed so as to add extra features to ICM without the need to replace ICM HW. ARCHITECTURE SPM is coupled to ICM, which means that it is designed to operate in simplex configuration; nevertheless a redundant ICM+SPM couple option can be provided in all cabinets variants. The SPM module is composed of a single board with connections on the Compact Interface Back Panel (CIBP) and on the front panel.

ALARMS AND BRIDGE MODULE (ABM)

BRIDGE FUNCTIONS The ABM provides bridge functions between several interfaces: On one side, it manages interface with ICM;

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On the other side, it manages one internal link for ABM alarm function and 3 links to RM modules.

ALARM COLLECTOR FUNCTIONS The ABM alarm collector function performs the following operations under the ICM control: Detection of cabinet alarms; Presence detection of the digital rack, combiner rack and other cabinet modules; Inventory of the digital rack, combiner rack and other cabinet modules; Alarm polling of the radio coupling modules; Alarm polling of the cooling system modules (indoor SICS, outdoor ECU); Alarm polling and software management of the outdoor cabinet power system (outdoor UCPS); Optional external alarm detection and remote control drive.

ARCHITECTURE One ABM is used in each BTS 18000 digital rack: one or two ABM per main or extension cabinets depending on the requested configuration. There is a maximum of 3 RM per ABM. The ABM module is composed of a single board with connections on the Digital Back Panel (DBP) and on the front panel. There are up to 8 customer Alarms available per ABM.

INTERFACE CONTROL AND ALARME MODULE (RICAM & ICAM)

FUNCTIONS RICAM stands for Redundant Interface Control and Alarm Module. ICAM stands for Interface Control and Alarm Module. They are optimized versions of the BTS 18000/BTS 6000 base common function modules. The RICAM was designed according to the following assumptions: It is functionally equivalent to 1 IFM/2 ICM/1 ABM/1 CIBP and associated cables. It is therefore internally redundant. It supports up to two remote ABM enabling configurations up to 2S999/2S666_333 (BTS 18000) or 2S444/2S222_222 (BTS6000). It supports up to 4 ABIS.

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It is available for E1 120 , E1 75 , T1 100 . It supports an external synchronization signal. It is placed in the ABM0 slot. DIP switch commissioning enables the differentiation between the BTS 18000 and the BTS 6000 operations.

The ICAM is the non redundant version of the RICAM, i.e. it is logically equivalent to the set 1 IFM / 1 ICM / 1 ABM / 1 CIBP. RICAM and ICAM provide the operators with: A simplified BTS logical module architecture; An increased hardware BTS reliability compared to ICM redundant configurations; Same software redundancy mechanisms compared to ICM redundant configurations (RICAM only); Simplified trouble shooting activities; Less cables to manage.

ARCHITECTURE The ICAM and RICAM are placed in the ABM slot. They feature PCM interface on the one side and interface to the RM on the other side. The ICM and IFM are equipped with fillers and may be reserved for future use. Extension cabinets are equipped with ABM, as the ICAM or RICAM are used only in the main cabinets.

RICAM configuration architecture

The ICAM architecture is equivalent to that shown on this picture, the only difference being that the ICAM is not internally redundant.

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RADIO MODULES (RM)

FUNCTIONS The RM module is a complete GSM/GPRS/EDGE transmitter/receiver. It is in charge of all processing related to the GSM TDMA. It is designed to support 3 TDMA (GSM or EDGE). It is logically equivalent to 3 TRX. The RM is able to operate on one sector basis (3 carriers per sector, O3 mode) as well as 3 sector basis (one carrier per sector, S111 mode). Specific RM are associated to each of the four frequency bands (GSM 850, E-GSM 900, GSM 1800 and GSM 1900), with various power needs.

TX Outputs(3)

RX Inputs Diversity(3)

RX Inputs Main(3)

The BTS 18000 Radio Module

The RM consists of the following element: PSU: a power supply unit delivering from the 48V main power supply the secondary supplies to the other blocks of the RM module; RF RX board (RM RX): 3 dual narrowband receiver chains (main and diversity); RF TX board (RM TX): 3 low level transmit drivers; RF PA board (RM PA): 3 Power amplifier line-ups; LRM: the digital control board.

Each radio module is interfaced with the ABM module via the digital backplane.

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ARCHITECTURE The Radio Module internal architecture is given in the block diagram below.

Alarms

Radio module PSU

5.7V_R 27 V

3.3V_D

+24V or -48V main power supply

RM TX

RM PA (X3)

TX out 1 TX out 2 TX out 3

LRM RM Logical Board

RM RX

RX Main 3 RX Main 2 RX Main 1 RX Div 1 RX Div 2 RX Div 3

link to link to RM debug ABM other RM

The BTS 18000 RM block diagram.

LRM RADIO MODULE LOGICAL BOARD The LRM digital board is in charge of communication and control of the whole module. It is also in charge of all necessary base band processing for 3 complete GSM/GPRS/EDGE TDMA (downlink and uplink). RM TRANSMIT BOARD The RM TX board consists of three low power transmit RF chains. Each chain processes only one downlink TDMA. Each chain consists of: IF quadrature modulator; IF gain and channel filtering; RF up conversion; RF signal conditioning and amplification: RF bandwidth filter, ALC variable gain stage, amplifiers, static and dynamic attenuators.

The RM TX provides the RM PA board with 3 RF, low level, modulated (GMSK and 8 PSK), burst signals. RM POWER AMPLIFIER BOARD The RM PA board consists of 3 independent Power Amplifier lines up built on three independent boards. Each line up processes one transmit carrier. The RM PA boosts the level of the GMSK or 8PSK modulated RF pulse, generated by the transmit driver, up to the RF power level required before coupling/combining.

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RM RECEIVE BOARD The RM receive board consists of 6 RF receive chains. Receive chains are grouped by 2 chains (Main and diversity). In addition, a RX splitter function is integrated on the RM RX board. It is inserted between DDM and RM RX paths (Main and diversity). It allows splitting DDM RX outputs in order to reach maximum configurations (one input to three outputs split for main and diversity paths). MODULE PACKAGING The RM board is mounted in a closed metal housing, with a suitable heat sink. The RM dimensions are as follows:

Height Width Depth Weight Weight (future)

335 mm. 125 mm. 410 mm. 19 kg. 10 kg.

The same housing is used for all frequency ranges: GSM850, GSM900, GSM1800 and GSM1900. RADIO PERFORMANCE The output powers delivered by the GSM 850/900/1800/1900 RM depend upon the module versions. The various RM power options are given in the table hereafter (+/- 0.5 dB).

Frequency GSM 850 GSM 900 (E+P) GSM 900 (E+P) GSM 900 (E+P) future GSM 1800 GSM 1800 GSM 1900 GSM 1900 future

Carriers 3 3 2 3 3 3 3 3

Output power (GMSK) 60 W / 47.8 dBm 40 W / 46 dBm 60 W / 47.8 dBm 60 W / 47.8 dBm 30 W / 44.8 dBm 50 W / 46.9 dBm 30 W / 44.8 dBm 50 W / 46.9 dBm

Output power (8PSK) 45 W / 46.6 dBm 40 W / 46 dBm 45 W / 46.6 dBm 45 W / 46.6 dBm 30 W / 44.8 dBm 30 W / 44.8 dBm 30 W / 44.8 dBm 30 W / 44.8 dBm

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The guaranteed sensitivity figures of the BTS 18000 RM are given in the table hereafter: GSMK RX sensitivity GSMK RX sensitivity with space diversity All these performances as well as the packing density are based on a set of highly integrated components specifically developed by Nortel. -110 dBm -115 dBm

DUPLEXER AND COMBINER MODULES

The operator can use different types of couplers to couple the Power Amplifiers to the antennas and to combine the Rx and Tx paths hybrid combiners, transmit filters or duplexers. These couplers can be found in the following BTS 18000 modules: DDM with or without H2; TxF with or without H2; H4 and future H3.

Their main characteristics are summarized hereafter:

Dual Duplexer Module (DDM)

The BTS 18000 uses DDM (Dual Duplexer Module), for TX and RX coupling/filtering purpose. The duplexer allows to share on a same antenna TX and RX signal. The aim of the DDM is to provide TX filtering (out of band spurious and noise suppression), RX filtering (out of band interferers and noise suppression), TX to RX isolation, as well as front end low noise amplification for the receive chain. The figure below shows the block diagram of standard DDM:

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Antenna port

Antenna port

RX LNA

TX

RX LNA

TX

4 RX outputs TX input (from RM (to RX PA output) splitter input)

4 RX outputs TX input (from RM (to RX PA output) splitter input)

DDM block diagram

The DDM provides two separate RX paths with 4 outputs per chain. It also provides two transmit inputs and two antenna ports (two transmit carriers capacity). The DDM is used in a sector basis with one duplexer for main receive path and the other one for diversity receive path. Synthesized frequency hopping can be used with duplexers. Particularly well adapted to small capacities (1 to 2 TRX per cell) the DDM limits the transmission losses to provide high coverage performance. As an option, the DDM integrates a VSWR meter on both antenna accesses. This VSWR meter provides three levels of alarms. The corresponding thresholds of alarms are settable on site, through DDM front panel switches.

DDM with 2-way Hybrid Combiners (DDM H2)

In order to increase the transmit capacity of the DDM, integrated 2 way hybrid

combiners (H2 coupling) can be proposed as an option for DDM. These combiners can be bypassed. In addition, a front panel switch informs the system of the actual DDM H2 configurations (2 ways hybrid by-passed or not). The figure below shows the DDM H2 block diagram:

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Antenna port

Antenna port

RX LNA

TX

RX LNA

TX

4 RX outputs TX inputs (from RM (to RX splitter PA outputs) inputs)

4 RX outputs TX inputs (from RM (to RX splitter PA outputs) inputs)

DDM H2 block diagram

This device provides all the functionality of the duplexer described above and combines the signals from two power amplifiers through a two-channel hybrid combiner. It is therefore limiting antenna count for configurations with more than 2 TRX per sector. Synthesized frequency hopping can be used with DDM H2.

Transmit Filter (TxF or TxF H2)

The TX filter is used as complement of the DDM or of the DDM H2. It shall be used each time extra transmit capacity is needed without need of receive capacity. This device only filters the signal transmitted from the PA to the antenna and does not provide the reception path. Synthesized frequency hopping can be used with transmit filters. TXF filter accommodates an optional VSWR meter like the DDM and the DDM H2. It comes either with integrated H2 coupling, which can be by-passed, or without H2 coupling. The TXF H2 provides the same insertion losses as the DDM H2. The TXF without H2 or with by-passed H2 provides the same insertion losses as the DDM without H2 or with by-passed H2.

H4 module
The H4 module is 4-way hybrid coupler which combines up to four TX carriers from RM/HPRM outputs to DDM or TxF input. This module enables site capacity growth while limiting antenna count.

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(H4) module inventory (I2C)

(H4) output PA input a PA input b PA input c PA input d

H4 module

MODULE PACKAGING RF combiner deployment will vary according to the RF configurations and the TX coupling type. The choice of RF combiner type is mainly driven by the desired antenna output power and number of feeders and antennas per sector.

Room for combiners in the BTS 18000 indoor or outdoor cabinet is limited as follows: Maximum combiner capacity: 18 x 50mm slots; One DDM requires 3 slots; One DDM H2 requires 3 slots; One TXF (with or without H2) requires one slot. One H4 module requires one slot.

Therefore there is a maximum of 6 DDM or DDM H2 within one indoor or outdoor BTS 18000 cabinet.

SOFTWARE
The BTS 18000 is based on centralized software architecture. That means that the RICAM or ICAM or ICM module only support the external software interfaces. The RICAM or ICAM or ICM software manages the external interfaces and deals with the different BTS modules. All the software can be downloaded from the Base Station Controller (under the control of the OMC-R), with a selective loading option (file by file). The BTS 18000 is remotely upgradeable. The BTS software manages the different hardware memory modules. The BTS software is distributed among the RICAM, ICAM, ICM, ABM and RM. As far as redundancy is concerned, an active/stand-by mode is used, with hot restart. The active processor sends status information to the stand-by processor. If a major failure occurs on the active side, the stand-by processor takes over the BTS control.

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APPENDIX 1: APPLICABLE SPECIFICATIONS (OUTDOOR PRODUCTS)

Ref A1 IEC 721-3-4 (3) Classification of Groups of Environmental Parameters and their Severities Stationary Use at Non-Weather Protected Locations. Classes 4K2/4Z5/4Z8/4B1/4C2/4S2/4M3. Optional Classes 4K4 or 4K4H. Ref A2 Ref A3 Ref A4 Ref A5 IEC 60529 Degree of Protection Provided by Enclosures (IP codes), Ed.2.1 (2001). IEC 917 Module Order for Development of Mechanical Structures for Electronic Equipment Practices. IEC 721-2-6 (2) Environmental Conditions Appearing in Nature-Earthquake Vibration and Shock. EN 301 489-8 Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matter (EM); Electro Magnetic Compatibility (EMC) standard for radio equipment and services; Part 8: Specific Requirements for GSM Base Station V1.1.1 (2000). 3GPP TS 25.113: Technical specification group radio access networks; Base Station Electro Magnetic Compatibility Ed V3.5.0 FCC Part 15 Class B: Radio Frequency Devices. ISO 1996/1 Acoustics - Description and Measurement of Environmental Noise Part 1 Basic Quantities and Procedures. ISO 7779 Acoustics - Measurement of Airborne Noise Emitted by Computer and Business Equipment. ISO 3270 Methods of Tests for Paints. ISO 3461 Graphic Symbols. ISO 3864 Safety Colors and Safety Signs. ETS 300 019-1-1 Classification of Environmental Conditions Storage Class 1.2. ETS 300 019-1-2 Classification of Environmental Conditions Transportation Class 2.2. EN 60950, Safety of Information Technology Equipment, including Electrical Business Equipment (ed. 3, 2000). UL 60950, CSA C22.2 N 60950-00, Safety of Information Technology Equipment, including Electrical Business Equipment (ed. 3;2000).

Ref A6 Ref A7 Ref A8 Ref A9 Ref A10 Ref A11 Ref A12 Ref A13 Ref A14 Ref A15

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APPENDIX 2: ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE

The references (Ref []) are connected with Appendix 1: Applicable Specifications. Operational Temperature Range The GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor is designed to operate when the external ambient temperature is in the range of -40C to +50C for full performance as per specifications. This operational temperature range is achieved within 4 hours of AC power connection to the Outdoor BTS. The GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor meets the requirements of IP55 as defined by Ref [A2]. TheBTS 18000 Outdoor, once fully installed, can withstand a wind velocity of 50 m/s. The GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor meets the requirements [A5] and [A6]. For Europe the product is CE marked. It complies with [A14]. For America the product is UL and CSA compliant. It is approved by Underwriters Laboratories under [A15]. Acoustics Noise The maximum sound power level emitted by the GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor is 64 dB(A) at BTS normal speed operation (58 dBA for configuration limited to S333) and 65 dB(A) at BTS maximum speed operation, when measured in accordance with Ref [A8]. The GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor is designed to operate under the vibration limits defined by Ref [A1]. The GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor is designed to operate under the humidity levels defined by Ref [A1] Class 4K4H (36 g/m3 A/H). The GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor is designed to operate under the conditions of airborne mechanically chemically active substances, defined by Ref [A1] Class 4C2/4S2. The standard mechanical design of the GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor offers protection against the heating effects of solar radiation on the BTS structure. The maximum solar radiated energy on the Outdoor BTS is taken as 1120 W/m2. The mechanical design of all BTS products takes into account the effects of seismic shock up to the level of seismic shock level 3, as defined by Ref [A4] 2.4.3. The GSM BTS 18000 Outdoor is compliant to the Directive 2002/95/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 January 2003 on the Restriction of the use of certain Hazardous Substances (RoHS) in electrical and electronic equipment.

Ingress Protection Wind Protection EMC/EMI Product Safety

Operational Vibration Humidity

Air Purity

Solar Gain

Seismic Shock

RoHS

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APPENDIX 3: ABBREVIATIONS
Abis AC ABM AMR BCCH ETSI generic name for the BSC-BTS interface Alternative current (power source) Alarm & Bridge Module Adaptive Multirate Coding Broadcast Control Channel Common mobile logical channel used for broadcasting system information on the radio interfaces. Base Station Controller Base Station Subsystem A BSS is made up of BSC, plus a number of BTS, some transcoder units, and an OMC-R. A BSS is connected to an MSC, and therefore to the global network through the A interface. Base Transceiver Station Compact Interface Back Panel Decibel milliwatt. Logarithmic unit to express a power level, with reference to 1 mW. Digital Back Panel Direct Current (power source) Dual Duplexer Module The receiver includes both main and diversity channel down conversion and sampling in the same RX volume. The Frame Processing Unit (FPU) then processes both channels, using an equivalent Maximal Ratio Combining technique through a joint equalization of both receive signals.

BSC BSS

BTS CIBP dBm DBP DC DDM Diversity

Drop and insert A technique allowing several components to be daisy chained on a common physical bus with each component, and ensuring data integrity and positioning. DRX DTX Driver + Receiver + Frame Processor Discontinuous Transmission A technique allowing the suppression of transmission when nothing is to be transmitted A frequency band selective circulator. Used, as any multiplexer, to minimize the number of physical transmission lines. For radio, transmission lines are antenna systems Standard European PCM (2.048 Mbit/s) Environmental Control Unit

Duplexer

E1 ECU

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EDGE EGPRS E-GSM EIRP EMC EMI ETSI FCC FP FRU GMSK GPRS GSM GSM 850 GSM 900 GSM 1800 GSM 1900 H2 H3 H4 HDLC HW ICM ICO IEC IFM LNA

Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution EDGE on General Packet Radio Services Extended GSM Equivalent Isotropic Radiated Power Electromagnetic compatibility Electromagnetic interference European Telecommunication Standard Institute Federal Communications Commission Frame Processor Field Replaceable Unit Gaussian Minimum Shift Keying Radio modulation used in GSM system General Packet Radio Services Global System for Mobile communication Radio cellular network standard operating at 850 MHz Radio cellular network standard operating at 900 MHz Radio cellular network standard adapted for the 1800 MHz frequency band Radio cellular network standard adapted for the 1900 MHz frequency band Hybrid 2-way combiner Hybrid 3-way combiner Hybrid 4-way combiner High-Level Data Link Control Protocol used on data links HardWare Interface Control Module InterCOnnection module International Electrotechnical Committee InterFace Module Low Noise Amplifier An RF amplifier used to enlarge very small useful signals received with minimum added noise. Microwave Link Terminal Multi Carrier Power Amplifier

MLT MCPA

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MRC

Maximum Ratio Combiner Name of the most efficient linear combining technique for receive diversity. Mobile Services Switching center Operation and Maintenance Original Equipment Manufacturer Operation and Maintenance Center for the radio sub-system. OMC-R then stands for Operation and Maintenance Center Radio Power Amplifier Pulse Code Modulation By extension, name given to the E1 or T1 physical link. Phase Locked Loop 8-Phase Shift Keying Radio modulation used in EDGE Power Supply Unit Radio Frequency Radio Frequency Interference Railway GSM Radio Module Restriction of Hazardous Substances BTS receiver Synchronization module SoftWare Standard US PCM system (1.544 Mbit/s) TimeSlot Time Division Multiple Access Multiple access technique based on timeslot structure. BTS Transmitter/Receiver BTS transmitter Universal Compact Power System Voice Activity Detection Voltage Standing Wave Ratio

MSC O&M OEM OMC

PA PCM PLL 8-PSK PSU RF RFI R-GSM RM RoHS RX SYNC SW T1 TS TDMA TRX TX UCPS VAD VSWR

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