/DL) Paging channel (DL) Paging for a mobile terminal Random access channel Resource request made by mobile terminal Slow associated control SACCH Used for transport of radio layer channel (UL/DL) parameters Standalone dedicated control SDCCH For user network signalling channel (UL/DL) Synchronisation channel Synchronisation of mobile terminal channels (CCH). Traffic channels are used to carry user data (speech/data) while the control channels carry the signalling and control information. The logical control channels are of two types: common and dedicated channels. Table 2.1 summarises the control channel types. 2.2 RADIO NETWORK PLANNING PROCESS The main aim of radio network planning is to provide a cost-effective solution for the radio network in terms of coverage, capacity and quality. The network planning process and design criteria vary from region to region depending upon the dominating factor, which could capacity or coverage. The radio network design process itself is not the only process in whole network design, as it has to work in close coordination with the planning processes of the core and especially the transmission network. But for ease of explanation, a simplified process just for radio network planning is shown in Figure 2.5. The process of radio network planning starts with collection of the input parameters such as the network requirements of capacity, coverage and quality. These inputs are then used Pre-Planning Site Survey Network Requirements C/I Analysis Capacity, Quality, etc Coverage & Parameter Planning Radio Network Plan Capacity Plan Site Selection Frequency Plan Figure 2.5 The radio network planning process RADIO NETWORK PLANNING PROCESS to make the theoretical coverage and capacity plans. Definition of coverage would include defining the coverage areas, service probability and related signal strength. Definition of capacity would include the subscriber and traffic profile in the region and whole area, availability of the frequency bands, frequency planning methods, and other informa