RFUMTS (3G) vs. WLAN: A Detailed Comparison
umts
wlan
3g
wireless lan
mobile communication
Advertisement
This article highlights the differences between UMTS (3G) and WLAN. You’ll also find links to further resources comparing various technologies.
UMTS (3G) - Universal Mobile Telecommunication System
The initial UMTS deployment followed the R99 architecture.
- Architecture: UMTS architecture generally consists of the UE (User Equipment), UTRAN (UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network, which includes Node B and RNC), and CN (Core Network).
- Evolution: 3GPP has standardized and published various UMTS releases with feature enhancements over time.
- Design Goal: UMTS was designed to handle both voice communications and high-speed data internet access.
- RNC Role: The Radio Network Controller (RNC) manages the utilization and reliability of radio resources. The RNC is similar to the BSC (Base Station Controller) in GSM, and Node B is analogous to the BTS (Base Transceiver Station) in GSM.
WLAN - Wireless Local Area Network
WLAN was originally conceived to provide wireless connectivity within a LAN (Local Area Network).
- Concept: A traditional LAN with added wireless capabilities constitutes a WLAN.
- Popularity: WLAN has gained widespread adoption in homes, offices, public areas, and college campuses due to its support for wireless communication.
- Mobility: WLAN offers limited mobility while maintaining an internet connection.
- Spectrum: WLAN operates in the unlicensed ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) band.
- Standards: The IEEE 802.11 family of standards governs the development of WLAN products.
UMTS vs. WLAN: A Detailed Comparison
| Specifications | UMTS (3G) | WLAN |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 3GPP R99 | IEEE 802.11 series |
| Network Elements | UE, NodeB | AP (Access Point), STA (Station/Client) |
| Signaling Type | Out-of-band | In-band |
| Coverage Distance | ~16 km (max) | ~30 meters (max) |
| Data Rate | 2 Mbps (static), 144 Kbps (mobile) | 54 Mbps (802.11a), 11 Mbps (802.11b) |
| Core Network Connection | Mobile node connected to CN via BSS (CS and VCS methods) | Mobile node connected to CN via Access Point |
| Protocol Layers | Different control and user protocol stacks | Control and user data packets processed through the same protocol stacks |
| Downlink Flow Control | Supported | Not supported |
| QoS | Supported | Not supported (under discussion for future standards) |
| Frequency of Operation | Various bands (country-specific) | 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz |
| Topology | TDD and FDD | TDD only |
