Optimization model for location management in WCDMA networks

This study deals with the location management in WCDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access) networks. The new location management method is the one of the many techniques used to provide the packet switched (PS) services effectively in WCDMA networks. WCDMA introduces RA (routing area) for the PS services in addition to LA (location area) for the circuit switched (CS) services. WCDMA system also adopts the cooperative paging and the combined area update which are to decrease signaling traffic using the PS network resources for the CS services. Considering the characteristics of the WCDMA networks, this study formulate into the mathematical programming problem for the location management. Rather than the existing researches which consider the single MSC/SGSN networks, we deal with the multi MSC/SGSN networks, where both MSC area and SGSN area should be determined as well. Fairness between traffic loads of MSC/SGSN and the system cost incurred to MSC/SGSN are also incorporated into our model, which make the model more realistic. We propose greedy algorithms for the problems, which consists of the merger of two neighboring areas and the movement of an area. Extensive experiment has been done based on the realistic problem examples. Followed by the analysis of parameter effect on the final solutions and the quality of final solutions obtained by our greedy algorithms. Our proposed model and analysis result can be used to determine WCDMA system areas and to predict the system performance measures by the determination.