Question

How does UMTS achieve higher data rates than GSM? List at least three key improvements (or techniques) introduced in UMTS for higher data rates.

Answer 1

1. How does UMTS achieve higher data rates than GSM?

· UMTS maximum data transfer rate is 42 Mbps this is because of the implementation of a new technology called HSPA (High Speed Packet Access).

· In UMTS more data is carried to the downlink as a result of internet surfing, video downloads etc.

· When TDD system is used it is possible to change the balance between downlink and uplink transmission.

· UMTS also uses WCDMA( Wide band Code Division Multiple Access) technology to provide greater spectral efficiency and bandwidth.

· UMTS are in the process of upgrading High Speed Downlink Packet Access.

List at least three key improvements (or techniques) introduced in UMTS for higher data rates.

· UMTS belongs to 3G, while GSM belongs to 2G.

· UMTS are based on Wide band Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) and data transfer rate is 42 Mbps. While GSM used a combination of Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA) and Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) and data transfer rate is 384 Kbps.

· HSPA (High Speed Packet Access) technology introduced as an enhancement to UMTS network and thus increases data speeds. GSM is using the technologies GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) and EDGE (Enhanced Data for Global Evolution).

· In UMTS , SIM is transformed in to more powerful Universal SIM (USIM). SIM is using in GSM.