Aricent's GSN-Lite is a unique and proven GPRS Core Network packet switched node, which can be configured in GPRS or EDGE networks either as an SGSN or a GGSN, or as a combined GSN (SGSN+GGSN) solution.

Several mobile operators today deploy GSN-Lite to provide new generation of fast multimedia services. By the end of the year 2005, GSN-Lite network installations is expected to touch double digits.

GSN-Lite’s all-IP architecture in core networks along with its ability to run on any Linux-based, commercially available server offers the Service Providers an opportunity to reduce CAPEX through the use of commercially available routers and network elements. In addition, it also enables the Service Providers lower their OPEX by taking advantage of decreasing prices in the IP backhaul. Furthermore, GSN-Lite can also be interfaced with legacy solutions. For this, Aricent provides support for radio networks using Frame Relay/E1/T1 interfaces and for other network elements, such as the HLR and the MSC/VLR using MTP2/E1/T1 interfaces using ADAX’s hardware board.

Flexibility in GSN-Lite’s licensing and pricing model of "pay-for-what-you-need" and "pay-as-you-grow" provides new opportunities for operators and keeps the entry costs low for introducing GPRS services. Partnering with Aricent, operators receive a good Return on Investment (RoI) as well as the flexibility to align their network evolution with cash flows with the increase in number of subscribers and coverage area. Other benefits of GSN-Lite include:

• Low Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and zero obsolescence risk because GSN-Lite runs on standard Industry-grade Linux-based servers.
• Reduced OPEX
• Simple, and cost-effective migration path to 3G and rollout of IMS services
  

GSN-Lite Deployments

GSN-Lite is an ideal solution for non-critical deployments where solutions from established TEMs are commercially unviable. GSN-Lite target deployments include:

• For launch of data services, such as MMS, Internet, and e-mail in rural sectors in developed countries
• For rural operators who need to upgrade to the GPRS air-interface to maintain roaming agreement with regional or national carriers
• For operators in developing markets, such as Africa who require entry level GPRS solutions
• In scattered Islands, such as the Caribbean, the Micronesia or low population density countries, such as the CIS countries that require a low capacity solution

GSN-Lite Applications

Aricent’ GSN-Lite is an ideal standardized solution for providing wireless access to the Internet anywhere, anytime. With its low footprint, GSN-Lite allows operators to offer high-speed Internet services in portable, mobile, and fixed environments. A few examples of GSN-Lite’s applications are as follows:

• Military applications: GSN-Lite, with its low footprint and ability to run even on laptops, is highly suitable for mounting on mobile vehicles to provide localized data communication to dismounted soldiers in a battlefield.
• Maritime communications: Satellite backhaul cost is a significant recurring cost in any network architecture for maritime applications. Deployment of GSN-Lite, along with the BTSs and BSCs aboard ships would reduce satellite link lease costs significantly and allow for revenue generating applications, such as gaming and gambling to be hosted on the ship.
• Wireless Cabins: Another emerging application of GSN-Lite is to provide GPRS connectivity to passengers on aircrafts.

GSN-Lite Packaging

GSN-Lite ships as a software package that can be installed on any Intel hardware platform running Linux. It supports multiple transport options, such as IP transport, E1 (Frame Relay or MTP2), or any combination thereof towards other interface nodes, such as the BSC, the HLR, the MSC/VLR, and the SMS-GW.

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