for GSM and TDMA (IS-136) networks, which provides both standards with a way to handle higher-data speeds and the transition to 3G. It will make mobile data faster, cheaper, and user-friendlier than ever before. By introducing packet switching and Internet Protocol (IP) to mobile networks, GPRS gives mobile users faster data speeds, and particularly suits bursty Internet and intranet traffic. For the subscriber, GPRS enables voice and data calls to be handled simulta- neously. Connection setup is almost instantaneous, and users can have GSM PLMN Downloaded from Digital Engineering Library @ McGraw-Hill (www.digitalengineeringlibrary.com) Copyright © 2004 The McGraw-Hill Companies. All rights reserved. Any use is subject to the Terms of Use as given at the website. GPRS Introduction Chapter 2 always-on connectivity to the mobile Internet, enjoying high-speed delivery of e-mails with large file attachments, Web surfing, and access to corporate LANs. GPRS was defined by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) as a means of providing a true packet radio service on GSM networks. GSM equipment vendors are actively developing systems that adhere to the GPRS specifications. At the same time, carriers whose net- works are based on North American TDMA (NA-TDMA) (IS-136) have decided to deploy GPRS technologies in their networks. Internetworking and interoperability specifications have been developed between ANSI/IS- 136 and GSM; therefore, this is a logical extension of the overall scheme. Figure 2-6 is an example of the internetworking arrangements that are planned for use within GPRS. This creates a coup for the ETSI, because up to now, IS-136 networks have been completely based on Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) standards and specifications. Today, GPRS is seen as one of the pre- liminary steps down a path that will someday lead to the convergence of GSM and IS-136 networks. Other Figure 2-6 SMS-GMSC GPRS PLMN Internetworking SMS-IWMSC strategies in GPRS. MSC/VLR Downloaded from Digital 