Question: Which of the following best describes the primary purpose of the RAN Information Management (RIM) function in E-UTRAN?
Option 1: To manage and prioritize traffic between the Radio Access Network (RAN) and User Equipment (UE).
Option 2: To facilitate direct communication between two RAN nodes without involving the Core Network (CN).
Option 3: To enable the request and transfer of system information (e.g., GERAN/UTRAN) between RAN nodes via the Core Network (CN).
Option 4: To optimize handover procedures between different RAN technologies (e.g., from UTRAN to GERAN).
Explanation: The correct answer, Option 3, accurately reflects the primary purpose of the RIM function as described. It highlights the ability to request and transfer system information between two RAN nodes using the Core Network as a conduit. This is crucial for ensuring seamless interoperability and information exchange across different network segments. Options 1, 2, and 4 are incorrect because they either misrepresent the RIM's role (Option 1), contradict its operational principle (Option 2, by suggesting direct communication without CN involvement), or assign an unrelated function to it (Option 4, which pertains more to mobility management than information transfer).