Evolution of Positioning Techniques in Cellular Networks, from 2G to 4G

Figure 2

Schematic representation of the GSM/GPRS/EDGE, UMTS, and LTE networks. The figure shows that GSM and UMTS share the same core network. In GSM network, the BTS is connected to the core network through the Base Station Controller (BSC). In the UMTS network, Node B is connected to the core network through the Radio Network Controller (RNC). The evolved Node B (eNB) in the LTE network has both Node B and RNC functions and is directly connected to the EPC. GSM and UMTS core network CS domain connects to other Public Switched Telephone Networks (PSTNs), while the PS domain connects to other Packet Data Networks (PDNs). The EPC in LTE has only the PS domain. In both UMTS and LTE, the MS is referred to as User Equipment (UE).