Electronic device for searching network on which voice call service is available, and operating method thereof

Abstract

An electronic device for searching for a network on which a voice call service is available, and an operating method thereof are disclosed. An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise a memory for storing instructions. The electronic device may comprise a processor for executing the instructions. When executed by the processor, the instruction can cause the electronic device to: determine whether a voice call service is available; identify other radio access technology (RAT) supported by a registered public land mobile network (RPLMN) of the electronic device when the voice call service is unavailable; perform a RAT scan for acquiring the identified other RAT; and perform a public land mobile network (PLMN) scan for acquiring a PLMN that differs from the RPLMN in the current RAT if the other RAT is not acquired as a result of the RAT scan.

Description

Electronic device for searching a network capable of providing voice call service and method of operation thereof

[0001] An electronic device for searching a network capable of providing voice call service and a method of operating the same are disclosed.

[0002] 5G mobile communications technology defines a wide frequency band to enable fast transmission speeds and new services. 5G mobile communications technology can be implemented not only in sub-6GHz bands, such as 3.5 gigahertz (3.5GHz), but also in ultra-high frequency bands called millimeter wave (mmWave) bands, such as 28GHz or 39GHz (above 6GHz). Many mobile carriers are eliminating their existing circuit switched networks (CS) with the recent introduction of 5G networks. Furthermore, many carriers do not have CS networks to begin with. Therefore, these carriers only provide voice call services via the internet protocol multimedia subsystem (IMS) over LTE or 5G networks.

[0003] An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a memory that stores instructions. The electronic device may include a processor that executes the instructions. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to determine whether a voice call service is available. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to check for another radio access technology (RAT) supported by a registered public land mobile network (RPLMN) of the electronic device if the voice call service is not available. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to perform a RAT scan to acquire the identified other RAT. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to perform a PLMN scan to acquire a PLMN (public land mobile network) different from the RPLMN in the current RAT if the other RAT is not acquired as a result of the RAT scan.

[0004] An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a memory that stores instructions. The electronic device may include a processor that executes the instructions. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to perform a RAT scan and a PLMN scan to provide a voice call service if the voice call service is not available in the RPLMN of the electronic device. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to provide a data packet service in the current RAT of the RPLMN if another RAT and another PLMN are not acquired as a result of the RAT scan and the PLMN scan. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to periodically perform the RAT scan and the PLMN scan.

[0005] An operating method of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include an operation of determining whether a voice call service is available. If the voice call service is not available, the operating method of the electronic device may check for another radio access technology (RAT) supported by a registered public land mobile network (RPLMN) of the electronic device. The operating method of the electronic device may perform a RAT scan to acquire the other RAT identified. If the other RAT is not acquired as a result of the RAT scan, the operating method of the electronic device may perform a PLMN scan to acquire a public land mobile network (PLMN) different from the RPLMN in the current RAT.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an operating method of an electronic device may perform a RAT scan and a PLMN scan to provide a voice call service if the voice call service is not available in the RPLMN of the electronic device. If another RAT and another PLMN are not acquired as a result of the RAT scan and the PLMN scan, the operating method of the electronic device may provide a data packet service in the current RAT of the RPLMN. The operating method of the electronic device may periodically perform the RAT scan and the PLMN scan.

[0007] A computer-readable recording medium according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a program for determining whether a voice call service is available. If the voice call service is not available, the computer-readable recording medium may store a program for checking for another radio access technology (RAT) supported by a registered public land mobile network (RPLMN) of the electronic device. The computer-readable recording medium may store a program for performing a RAT scan to obtain the other RAT identified. If the other RAT is not obtained as a result of the RAT scan, the computer-readable recording medium may store a program for performing a PLMN scan to obtain a PLMN (public land mobile network) different from the RPLMN in the current RAT.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a computer-readable recording medium may store a program for performing a RAT scan and a PLMN scan to provide a voice call service when the voice call service is not available in the RPLMN of the electronic device. The computer-readable recording medium may store a program for providing a data packet service in the current RAT of the RPLMN when another RAT and another PLMN are not acquired as a result of the RAT scan and the PLMN scan. The computer-readable recording medium may store a program for periodically performing the RAT scan and the PLMN scan.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment including a plurality of cellular networks according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a wireless communication network according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5 is a drawing for explaining a related technology for searching a network capable of providing voice call service.

[0014] FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 are diagrams for explaining a method for searching a network capable of providing voice call service in one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for searching a network providing a voice call service in stage 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 are flowcharts illustrating a method for searching a network providing a voice call service in stage 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining an operation method of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the description with reference to the attached drawings, identical components are assigned the same reference numerals regardless of the drawing numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (104) or the server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). In one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0020] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0021] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0022] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0023] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0024] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0025] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0026] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0027] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0028] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0029] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0030] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0031] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0032] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0033] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0034] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0035] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0036] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0037] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0038] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0039] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0040] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0041] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0042] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0043] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0044] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between sellers and buyers as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or may be provided through an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones), online distribution (e.g., downloading or uploading). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily created in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0046] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0047] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) in a network environment (200) including multiple cellular networks according to one embodiment.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 2, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (210) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1), a first radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) (222), a second RFIC (224), a first radio frequency front end (RFFE) (232), a second RFFE (234), a first antenna module (242), a second antenna module (244), and a third antenna module (246). The second network (199) may include a first cellular network (292) (e.g., a legacy network) and a second cellular network (294) (e.g., a 5G network). The electronic device (101) may further include at least one component among the components described in FIG. 1, and the second network (199) may further include at least one other network. In one embodiment, the second RFIC (224) may be omitted or included as part of the third RFIC (226).

[0049] According to one embodiment, the first RFIC (222), the second RFIC (224), the first RFFE (232), and the second RFFE (234) of FIG. 2 may be included in the communication module (190) of FIG. 1 (e.g., the wireless communication module (192)), and the first antenna module (242), the second antenna module (244), and the third antenna module (246) of FIG. 2 may be included in the antenna module (197) of FIG. 1.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the processor (210) (e.g., a communication processor) may support establishment of a communication channel in a band to be used for wireless communication with a first cellular network (292), and legacy network communication through the established communication channel. The first cellular network (292) may be, for example, a legacy network including a second generation (2G), 3G, 4G, or long term evolution (LTE) network. The processor (210) may support establishment of a communication channel corresponding to a first band (e.g., about 6 GHz to about 60 GHz) (or a frequency range (FR)2 of the 5G standard (e.g., 24.25 GHz to 52.6 GHz)) among the bands to be used for wireless communication with a second cellular network (294), and 5G network communication through the established communication channel. The second cellular network (294) may be a 5G network defined by 3GPP. The processor (210) can establish a communication channel corresponding to a second band (e.g., about 6 GHz or less) (or FR1 of the 5G standard (e.g., 410 MHz to 7.125 GHz)) among the bands to be used for wireless communication with the second cellular network (294), and can support 5G network communication through the established communication channel.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the first RFIC (222) may, upon transmission, convert a baseband signal generated by the processor (210) into a radio frequency (RF) signal in a frequency band (e.g., about 700 MHz to about 3 GHz) used by the first cellular network (292). Upon reception, the RF signal may be received or acquired from the first cellular network (292) via the first antenna module (242) and preprocessed via the first RFFE (232). The first RFIC (222) may convert the preprocessed RF signal into a baseband signal so that it may be processed by the processor (210).

[0052] According to one embodiment, the first RFIC (222) may, upon transmission, convert a baseband signal generated by the processor (210) into an RF signal (hereinafter, a 5G Sub6 RF signal) of a Sub6 band (e.g., about 6 GHz or less) used in the second cellular network (294). Upon reception, the 5G Sub6 RF signal may be received or acquired from the second cellular network (294) via the second antenna module (244) and preprocessed via the second RFFE (234). The first RFIC (222) may convert the preprocessed 5G Sub6 RF signal into a baseband signal so that it may be processed by the processor (210).

[0053] According to one embodiment, the third RFIC (226) may convert the baseband signal generated by the processor (210) into an RF signal (hereinafter, 5G Above6 RF signal) of a 5G Above6 band (e.g., about 6 GHz to about 60 GHz) to be used in the second cellular network (294). Upon reception, the 5G Above6 RF signal may be received or acquired from the second cellular network (294) via the third antenna module (246) (e.g., antenna (248)) and preprocessed via the third RFFE (236). The third RFIC (226) may convert the preprocessed 5G Above6 RF signal into a baseband signal so that it can be processed by the processor (210). According to one embodiment, the third RFFE (236) may be formed as a part of the third RFIC (226).

[0054] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a second RFIC (224) separately from or at least as a part of the third RFIC (226). In this case, the second RFIC (224) may convert a baseband signal generated by the processor (210) into an RF signal (hereinafter, referred to as an IF signal) of an intermediate frequency band (e.g., about 9 GHz to about 11 GHz) and transmit the IF signal to the third RFIC (226). The third RFIC (226) may convert the IF signal into a 5G Above6 RF signal. Upon reception, the 5G Above6 RF signal may be received or acquired from the second cellular network (294) via the third antenna module (246) (e.g., antenna (248)) and converted into an IF signal by the third RFIC (226). The second RFIC (224) can convert the IF signal into a baseband signal so that the processor (210) can process it.

[0055] According to one embodiment, at least one antenna module of the first antenna module (242) or the second antenna module (244) may be omitted or combined with another antenna module to process RF signals of corresponding multiple bands.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the third RFIC (226) and the antenna (248) may be disposed on the same substrate to form a third antenna module (246). For example, the processor (120) may be disposed on a first substrate (e.g., main PCB). In this case, the third RFIC (226) may be disposed on a portion (e.g., bottom surface) of a second substrate (e.g., sub PCB) separate from the first substrate, and the antenna (248) may be disposed on another portion (e.g., top surface) of the second substrate (e.g., sub PCB), thereby forming the third antenna module (246). By disposing the third RFIC (226) and the antenna (248) on the same substrate, it is possible to reduce the length of the transmission line therebetween. This can reduce, for example, the loss (e.g., attenuation) of signals in the high-frequency band (e.g., about 6 GHz to about 60 GHz) used in 5G network communications due to transmission line transmission. As a result, the electronic device (101) can improve the quality or speed of communication with the second cellular network (294) (e.g., the 5G network).

[0057] According to one embodiment, the antenna (248) may be formed as an antenna array including a plurality of antenna elements that may be used for beamforming. In this case, the third RFIC (226) may include a plurality of phase shifters (238) corresponding to the plurality of antenna elements, for example, as part of the third RFFE (236). Upon transmission, each of the plurality of phase shifters (238) may shift the phase of a 5G Above6 RF signal to be transmitted to an external source (e.g., a base station of a 5G network) of the electronic device (101) via its corresponding antenna element. Upon reception, each of the plurality of phase shifters (238) may shift the phase of a 5G Above6 RF signal received from an external source (e.g., a base station of a 5G network) via its corresponding antenna element to the same or substantially the same phase. This enables transmission or reception via beamforming between the electronic device (101) and the external source.

[0058] The second cellular network (294) may operate independently of the first cellular network (292) (e.g., stand-alone (SA)) or may be connected to it (e.g., non-stand alone (NSA)). For example, a 5G network may only have an access network (e.g., a 5G radio access network (RAN) or next generation RAN (NG RAN)) and no core network (e.g., next generation core (NGC)). In this case, the electronic device (101) may access an external network (e.g., the Internet) under the control of a core network (e.g., evolved packed core (EPC)) of a legacy network after accessing the access network of the 5G network. Protocol information for communication with the legacy network (e.g., LTE protocol information) or protocol information for communication with the 5G network (e.g., New Radio (NR) protocol information) may be stored in a memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1) and accessed by the processor (210).

[0059] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a wireless communication network according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 3, a wireless communication network (300) may include public land mobile networks (PLMNs) (310, 311), base stations (320, 321, 322, 323, 324, 325), and electronic devices (101, 102). PLMN 1 (310) may provide 2G, 3G, and 4G to the electronic device (101) through the base stations (320, 321, 322). PLMN 2 (311) may provide 4G to the electronic device (102) through the base stations (323, 324, 325).

[0061] According to one embodiment, the wireless communication network (300) may include one or more PLMNs (310, 311). In FIG. 3, two PLMNs are illustrated for convenience of explanation, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. One or more PLMNs (310, 311) may overlap.

[0062] Each PLMN (210, 211) may be distinguished by a unique public land mobile network identification (PLMN ID). The PLMN ID may be information received through base stations (320, 321, 322, 323, 324, 325) to enable electronic devices to distinguish PLMNs. The PLMN ID may include a mobile country code (MCC), a mobile network code (MNC), a location area identity (LAI), and a PLMN operator identifier.

[0063] According to one embodiment, each of the PLMNs (210, 211) can provide cellular communication services to the electronic devices (101, 102) based on a specific radio access technology (RAT). For example, the RAT supported by the PLMN can be a second generation (2G) RAT such as global system for mobile communication (GSM), general packet radio service (GPRS), or enhanced data rates for GSM evolution (EDGE), a third generation (3G) RAT such as wideband code division multiplex access (WCDMA), a fourth generation (4G) RAT such as long term evolution (LTE), or a fifth generation (5G) RAT. According to one embodiment, one PLMN can provide services based on multiple different RATs. For example, PLMN 1 (310) can provide cellular communication services of 2G, 3G, and 4G. An electronic device (101) (e.g., electronic device (101) of FIG. 1) registered in PLMN 1 (310) that supports multiple RATs can select one of the multiple RATs to use the cellular communication service.

[0064] According to one embodiment, each of the PLMNs (310, 311) may communicate with one or more electronic devices (101, 102) via one or more base stations (320, 321, 322, 323, 324, 325). Each of the base stations (320, 321, 322, 323, 324, 325) may provide service to a geographic area that may be divided into one or more cells.

[0065] In one embodiment, when a PLMN utilizing a base station supports multiple RATs, multiple different RATs may be serviced in the same geographic area. That is, multiple RATs may be supported by a single base station. For example, a base station (321) for PLMN 1 (310) may provide cellular communication networks of 2G, 3G, and 4G. When multiple RATs supported by a single base station are deployed in the same geographic area, the frequency bands used by each RAT may not overlap.

[0066] According to one embodiment, electronic devices (101, 102) may perform a process of selecting and registering one of PLMNs (310, 311) to receive cellular communication services. According to one embodiment, electronic devices (101, 102) may attempt PLMN search when powered on or after recovering from lack of coverage. Electronic devices (101, 102) may search for available PLMNs using all supportable RF bands. Electronic devices (101, 102) may search for a cell with the highest signal strength, receive a system information message from the cell, and extract available PLMN information from the system information message. If one or more PLMNs are extracted from the system information message, electronic devices (101, 102) may select a PLMN according to priority.

[0067] The priorities for selecting a PLMN may be as follows:

[0068] 1. The most recently registered PLMN (RPLMN) or, if available, its equivalent RPLMN (ERPLMN).

[0069] 2. The subscribed PLMN (home PLMN, HPLMN) or, if available, its equivalent PLMN (equivalent HPLMN; EHPLMN).

[0070] 3. PLMN / access technology combination included in the “User Controlled PLMN Selector with Access Technology” data file of the USIM (e.g., subscriber identification module (196) of FIG. 1).

[0071] 4. PLMN / access technology combination included in the "Operator Controlled PLMN Selector with Access Technology" data file of USIM.

[0072] 5. The PLMN / access technology combination with the best signal quality among other PLMNs.

[0073] 6. PLMN / access technology combinations with the best signal quality among other PLMNs.

[0074] When a PLMN is selected by priority, electronic devices (101, 102) can perform cell selection and network registration. For example, referring to FIG. 3, electronic device (101) can be registered in PLMN 1 (310), and electronic device (102) can be registered in PLMN 2 (311). The PLMNs that electronic devices can register are not fixed, and the PLMNs that can be registered may be changed in various embodiments.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the electronic devices (101, 102) may store one or more PLMN IDs. For example, when a user of the electronic devices (101, 102) subscribes to a cellular communication service, the information stored in the electronic devices (101, 102) may include information on the PLMN (home PLMN, HPLMN) to which the user subscribed and information on the most recently registered PLMN (registered PLMN, RPLMN) may be stored in the user subscriber identity module (USIM). For example, assuming that the electronic device (101) is subscribed to PLMN 1 (310), the electronic device (101) may store PLMN 1 (310) as the HPLMN. For example, when the electronic device (101) is network registered to PLMN 1 (310), the electronic device (101) may store PLMN 1 (310) as the RPLMN.

[0076] According to one embodiment, when searching for a PLMN, the electronic devices (101, 102) may preferentially search for an RPLMN or HPLMN. The electronic devices (101, 102) may search for available PLMNs, and if one matches a stored RPLMN or HPLMN, select the matching PLMN and stop the PLMN search. Thereafter, the electronic devices may perform cell selection and network registration among the cells of the selected PLMN.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the electronic devices (101, 102) can communicate with one of the base stations (320, 321, 322, 323, 324, 325) belonging to the PLMNs (310, 311). The electronic devices (101, 102) can transmit and receive information, signals, data, or messages with one of the base stations (320, 321, 322, 323, 324, 325). For example, the electronic devices (101, 102) can receive system information messages periodically broadcast by the base stations (320, 321, 322, 323, 324, 325).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the electronic devices (101, 102) can operate based on a specific RAT. For example, the electronic devices (101, 102) can use a cellular communication service based on at least one of RATs such as 2G (e.g., GSM), 3G (e.g., WCDMA), 4G (e.g., LTE), or 5G. According to one embodiment, one electronic device can support multiple RATs. For example, the electronic device (101) registered in PLMN 1 (310) can be an electronic device that supports all of 2G, 3G, and 4G. In this case, the electronic device (101) can use all of the communication services of the 2G, 3G, and 4G standards provided by PLMN 1 (310), but can generally select and connect to one of them according to priority.

[0079] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 4, an electronic device (400) according to an embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 to 3) may include a processor (410) (e.g., the processor (120) of FIG. 1 and the processor (120) of FIG. 2), a memory (420) (e.g., the memory (130) of FIG. 1), and a communication circuit (430) (e.g., the communication module (190) of FIG. 1). Only components related to the present embodiments are illustrated in the electronic device (400) illustrated in FIG. 4. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the electronic device (400) may further include other general-purpose components in addition to the components illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0081] The processor (410) may be operatively connected to a memory (420) and may execute one or more instructions stored in the memory (420). The processor (410) may be electrically and / or operatively connected to a communication circuit (430).

[0082] The electronic device (400) may be a device that receives cellular communication services. The electronic device (400) may be a device that receives data packet services and voice call services through cellular communication services. For example, the electronic device (400) may include various computing devices such as mobile phones, smart phones, tablets, e-book devices, laptops, personal computers, desktops, workstations, or servers that can receive data packet services and voice call services through cellular communication services; various wearable devices such as smart watches, smart glasses, or HMDs (Head-Mounted Displays); various home appliances such as smart speakers, smart TVs, or smart refrigerators; smart cars, smart kiosks, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, Walking Assist Devices (WADs), drones, or robots. Depending on the communication standard or RAT, the electronic device (400) may be referred to as a user equipment (UE), a terminal, a mobile station, a station (STA), etc.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (400) may support a specific RAT for cellular communication services. For example, the electronic device (400) may use cellular communication services based on at least one RAT, such as 2G (e.g., GSM), 3G (e.g., WCDMA), 4G (e.g., LTE), or 5G. In various embodiments, the electronic device (400) may support multiple RATs. For example, the electronic device (400) may be an electronic device that supports all of 2G, 3G, and 4G RATs.

[0084] The processor (410) may generate, acquire, process, or configure information, data, messages, or signals to be transmitted using a cellular communication service. The processor (410) may control the communication circuit (430) to transmit the generated, acquired, processed, or configured information, data, messages, or signals to another electronic device (e.g., the base stations (321) of FIG. 3). The processor (410) may process information, data, messages, or signals received from another electronic device (e.g., the base stations (321) of FIG. 3) via a cellular communication service. According to one embodiment, the processor (410) may be a communication processor.

[0085] As mentioned in the background, many mobile carriers are eliminating their CS networks. Therefore, voice call services can be provided via IMS services in 4G or 5G. However, if voice call services via IMS become unavailable due to internal network issues or other reasons (i.e., IMS voice not available status), voice-centric terminals that prioritize voice call services over data packet services are required by the 3GPP standard to disable the E-UTRA (evolved universal mobile telecommunications system terrestrial radio access) or N1 mode. However, if E-UTRA or N1 mode is disabled, both voice and data packet services may become unavailable. Therefore, the 3GPP standard requires that networks capable of voice call services be periodically searched for when IMS services are unavailable.

[0086] Accordingly, the electronic device (400) can periodically search for a network capable of providing voice call services. In other words, the electronic device (400) can search for a PLMN or RAT capable of providing voice call services in a state where the IMS service is unavailable and the E-UTRA or N1 mode function is disabled. The operations described below can be performed by the electronic device (400) when the processor (120) or auxiliary processor (not shown) (e.g., auxiliary processor (123) of FIG. 1) of the electronic device (400) executes instructions stored in the memory (420).

[0087] FIG. 5 is a drawing (500) for explaining a related technology for searching a network capable of providing voice call service.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 5, a related technology for searching for a PLMN or RAT capable of voice call service is illustrated.

[0089] Hereinafter, for the convenience of explanation, a section in which an electronic device (e.g., an electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, an electronic device (101) of FIG. 2, an electronic device (101) of FIG. 3, and an electronic device (400) of FIG. 4) performs a full scan in a state in which neither a data packet service nor a voice call service is provided (i.e., a no service state) will be referred to as stage 1. In addition, hereafter, for the convenience of explanation, a section in which an electronic device periodically performs a scan in a state in which only a data packet service is provided (i.e., an in service state) when a RAT or PLMN providing a voice call service is not found will be referred to as stage 2.

[0090] In Stage 1, the electronic device may perform a RAT scan to scan all other RATs provided by the RPLMN (e.g., PLMN 1 (310) in FIG. 3) and attempt to acquire the scanned RAT. For example, if the current RAT provided by the RPLMN is 4G, the electronic device may perform a scan for all other RATs provided by the RPLMN, namely 5G, 3G, and 2G, and attempt to acquire the scanned RAT.

[0091] If another RAT provided by RPLMN is acquired, the electronic device can provide voice call service to the user using the acquired RAT.

[0092] In stage 1 of the related technology, the electronic device may attempt to acquire a network according to the conventional priority during RAT scan and PLMN scan. Therefore, it may take time to acquire a network capable of voice call service. In stage 1 of the related technology, if the electronic device receives reject cause #3, #6, or #8 of the 3GPP standard, the subscriber identification module (SIM) card (e.g., the subscriber identification module (196) of FIG. 1) may become invalid. Referring to the 3GPP standard, reject cause #3 may indicate an illegal user equipment (UE). Reject cause #6 may indicate an illegal mobile equipment (ME). Reject cause #8 may indicate that evolved packet system (EPS) service and non-evolved packet system (non-EPS) service are not allowed.

[0093] Therefore, the electronic device may not be able to return to the RPLMN. In stage 1 of the related technology, if the electronic device experiences a RACH failure or receives rejection cause #16, #17, or #22 of the 3GPP standard, it may take several minutes to return to the RPLMN. Referring to the 3GPP standard, rejection cause #16 may indicate that the mobile switching center (MSC) is temporarily unreachable. Rejection cause #17 may indicate network failure. Rejection cause #22 may indicate congestion.

[0094] In Stage 1 of the related technology, even if an electronic device successfully acquires a PLMN, the network may revert to the RPLMN due to the HPLMN search timer if the PLMN has a low priority. Consequently, IMS services may become unavailable again. Therefore, a method may be needed to scan and acquire a network capable of voice call services and quickly return to the RPLMN.

[0095] If the electronic device fails to acquire another RAT provided by the RPLMN in Stage 1, the electronic device may perform a PLMN scan, which scans all frequency bands supported by the electronic device for the current RAT. The electronic device may attempt to acquire the scanned PLMN. For example, the electronic device may scan PLMN 1, PLMN 2, PLMN 3, and PLMN 4 through the PLMN scan. The electronic device may attempt to acquire PLMN 1, PLMN 2 (C), PLMN 3, and PLMN 4. In PLMN 2 (C), (C) may indicate a PLMN providing a combined network. The electronic device may attempt to acquire PLMNs sequentially according to priority.

[0096] When a PLMN providing voice call service is acquired, the electronic device can provide voice call service to the user using the acquired PLMN.

[0097] If a PLMN providing voice calling services is not acquired, Stage 2 may be initiated.

[0098] The electronic device can periodically perform Acq DB scan (acquisition database scan) and full scan in stage 2. Acq DB scan can be a scan based on frequency-related information used by the electronic device when registering with the network. The period of Acq DB scan can be X, X+2X, X+2X, 쪋. In other words, the period of Acq DB scan can be initially X and then maintained at 3X. For example, if X is 30 seconds, the period of Acq DB scan can be 30 seconds, 90 seconds, 90 seconds. The period of full scan can be 2X, 4X, 8X, 8X 쪋. In other words, the period of full scan can be initially 2X and then maintained at 8X through 4X. For example, if X is 30 seconds, the full scan cycle may be 60 seconds, 120 seconds, 240 seconds, 240 seconds, etc. When the electronic device performs each scan in stage 2, data packet service may not be provided to the user.

[0099] In Stage 2 of the related technology, electronic devices may periodically perform full scans, wasting time on unnecessary scans. Unnecessary scans in Stage 2 of the related technology may increase power consumption. Data packet services may not be provided during scans in Stage 2 of the related technology. Therefore, a method for reducing unnecessary scans and determining scan cycles may be needed. Below, we will describe a method for searching networks based on whether the electronic device is located domestically or internationally.

[0100] FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 are diagrams for explaining a method for searching a network capable of providing voice call service in one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 6, a method (600) for searching for a network capable of providing voice call service when the location of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, the electronic device (101) of FIG. 2, the electronic device (101) of FIG. 3, and the electronic device (400) of FIG. 4) is domestic is illustrated.

[0102] The electronic device can compare the HPLMN MCC stored on the SIM card with the RPLMN MCC. If the HPLMN and RPLMN MCCs are identical, the electronic device can determine its location as domestic. If the HPLMN and RPLMN MCCs differ, the electronic device can determine its location as international.

[0103] Figure 6 illustrates a method for searching for a network when the current RAT is 4G. However, this is merely an example, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the same method can be applied when the current RAT is a network other than 4G.

[0104] The description of Stage 1 and Stage 2 will be omitted as it is described above in Fig. 5.

[0105] In Stage 1, the electronic device can determine whether voice call services are available. For example, the electronic device can determine whether IMS services are available.

[0106] If voice call service is not available, the electronic device can check for other RATs supported by the RPLMN (e.g., PLMN 1 (310) in FIG. 3). The electronic device can perform RAT scanning only for the other RATs identified. For example, if the RPLMN does not support 2G and 3G, scanning for 2G and 3G may not be performed. For example, if the RPLMN only supports 5G, the electronic device can perform RAT scanning only for 5G. In contrast, the related technology of FIG. 5 can scan all other RATs regardless of whether the RPLMN supports them.

[0107] The electronic device may attempt to acquire another RAT that has been scanned. If the other RAT is not acquired, the electronic device may perform a PLMN scan to acquire an RPLMN different from the RPLMN in the current RAT.

[0108] An electronic device may attempt to acquire scanned PLMNs through a PLMN scan. The electronic device may attempt to acquire scanned PLMNs in order of priority.

[0109] The electronic device may determine the highest priority for the PLMN providing the combined network. For example, referring to FIG. 6, the electronic device may determine the highest priority for EPLMN 1 (C), which provides the combined network. Here, C may indicate the PLMN providing the combined network.

[0110] How to acquire a different RAT and a different PLMN in Stage 1 will be further explained in Figure 8.

[0111] If a RAT and PLMN capable of voice call service are not acquired, the electronic device can only provide data packet service in the current RAT of the RPLMN and search for a network capable of voice call service in Stage 2. The electronic device can search for a network capable of voice call service if there is a cell change in Stage 2. The electronic device can control a timer in Stage 2 to determine the scan cycle. The electronic device can determine whether to perform a scan based on the RRC (radio resource control) idle state.

[0112] The method for searching for networks that support voice call service in Stage 2 may vary depending on the location of the electronic device (i.e., whether it is domestic or international). If the electronic device is located domestically, the method for searching for networks that support voice call service is further described in Figure 9.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 7, a method (700) for searching for a network capable of providing voice call service when the location of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1, the electronic device (101) of FIG. 2, the electronic device (101) of FIG. 3, and the electronic device (400) of FIG. 4) is overseas is illustrated.

[0114] The method of performing a RAT scan and acquiring another RAT is the same as when the electronic device is located within the country, so the description will be omitted. If the electronic device fails to acquire another RAT, it can perform a PLMN scan in the current RAT. This can be done by scanning all frequency bands supported by the electronic device in the current RAT of the RPLMN. The electronic device can attempt to acquire the PLMN with the highest priority among the scanned PLMNs. At this time, the electronic device can determine the highest priority of the PLMN providing the combined network. For example, referring to FIG. 7, the electronic device can determine the highest priority of PLMN 2 (C) providing the combined network.

[0115] How to acquire a different RAT and a different PLMN in Stage 1 will be further explained in Figure 8.

[0116] If a RAT and PLMN capable of voice call service are not acquired, the electronic device can only provide data packet services on the current RAT of the RPLMN and search for a network capable of voice call service in Stage 2. If there is a cell change in Stage 2, the electronic device can search for a network capable of voice call service. The electronic device can control a timer to determine the scan cycle. The electronic device can determine whether to perform a scan based on the RRC connection status.

[0117] The method for searching for networks that support voice call service in Stage 2 may vary depending on the location of the electronic device (i.e., whether it is domestic or international). If the electronic device is located overseas, the method for searching for networks that support voice call service is further described in Figure 10.

[0118] Below, we will explain how to perform RAT scan and PLMN scan in Stage 1.

[0119] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing a voice call service in stage 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0120] The operations described below may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of the operations may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel. The operations illustrated in FIG. 8 may be performed by at least one component of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 , the electronic device (101) of FIG. 2 , the electronic device (101) of FIG. 3 , and the electronic device (400) of FIG. 4 ).

[0121] In operation (801), the electronic device can determine whether the IMS voice is not available.

[0122] The current RAT of an electronic device may be 4G or 5G. The electronic device can determine whether the IMS voice is not available status when the current RAT is 4G or 5G. In other words, the electronic device can determine whether voice call services are available. If the electronic device is in the IMS voice is not available status, the E-UTRA or N1 mode function may be disabled, preventing both voice call services and data packet services from being available.

[0123] If IMS voice is available, the electronic device can determine the operation (801) again.

[0124] In operation (803), the electronic device can check other RATs supported by the RPLMN.

[0125] The electronic device can check whether the RPLMN supports another RAT by checking the system information block (SIB) included in the system information message received from the base station (e.g., base station (321) of FIG. 3).

[0126] If the current RAT is 4G, the electronic device can check whether the RPLMN supports 2G, 3G, or 5G. Specifically, if the current RAT is 4G, the electronic device can check whether SIB 7 exists, and if SIB 7 exists, it can determine that another RAT, 2G (e.g., GSM), exists. If the current RAT is 4G, the electronic device can check whether SIB 6 exists, and if SIB 6 exists, it can determine that another RAT, 3G (e.g., WCDMA), exists. If the current RAT is 4G, the electronic device can check whether SIB 24 exists, and if SIB 24 exists, it can determine that another RAT, 5G (e.g., NR), exists.

[0127] If the current RAT is 5G, the electronic device can determine whether the RPLMN supports 4G. Specifically, if the current RAT is 5G, the electronic device can determine whether SIB 5 exists, and if SIB 5 exists, it can determine that 4G (e.g., LTE) is present.

[0128] In operation (805), the electronic device may perform a RAT scan only for other RATs that were confirmed to exist in operation (803).

[0129] The electronic device may attempt to acquire services from other scanned RATs.

[0130] In operation (807), the electronic device can determine whether it has successfully acquired service from another RAT as a result of the RAT scan.

[0131] If a service is acquired from another RAT in operation (819), the electronic device can provide voice call service and data packet service to the user through that RAT.

[0132] In operation (809), if the service is not acquired from another RAT, the electronic device may perform a PLMN scan to acquire another PLMN that provides voice call service from the current RAT. In other words, if acquisition fails for all other RATs of the RPLMN, the electronic device may perform a full scan to acquire a PLMN other than the RPLMN from the current RAT. The electronic device may attempt acquisition for the other scanned PLMN. In other words, the electronic device may attempt network registration for the other scanned PLMN.

[0133] The scan range may vary depending on whether the electronic device is located domestically or internationally. If the electronic device is located domestically, it may attempt to acquire EHPLMNs and EPLMNs that enable domestic roaming. If the electronic device is located overseas, it may perform a full scan of the current RAT and attempt to acquire the scanned PLMNs.

[0134] If two or more different PLMNs are scanned as a result of a scan, the electronic device may attempt to acquire them in order, starting with the PLMN with the highest priority. In this case, the PLMN providing the combined network may have the highest priority. The combined network may be a network that has an interface connecting a 2G or 3G network to a 4G core network to provide CS services in the 4G network. Since the combined network can provide voice call services through the linked CS network even when IMS voice is not available in the 4G network, the combined network may be determined to have the highest priority. According to one embodiment, the combined network may be a network in which the EPS attach result of the attach accept msg during the LTE attach procedure is "combined EPS / IMSI attach."

[0135] The electronic device can verify whether a PLMN providing a combined network exists by checking the SIB included in the system information message received from the base station. If SIB 6 and / or SIB 7 are present, the electronic device can determine that a PLMN providing a combined network exists. Furthermore, the electronic device can maintain a history of PLMNs to which it has previously been connected. The electronic device can determine a PLMN in the history that has previously served as a combined network as the PLMN providing the combined network.

[0136] An electronic device can shorten the time to return to the RPLMN by taking the following actions when the threshold time for network registration to another PLMN is exceeded.

[0137] If it appears that another PLMN capable of providing voice call services cannot be acquired, the electronic device can quickly revert to the RPLMN and provide data packet services on the current RAT, thereby alleviating user inconvenience.

[0138] When the electronic device receives reject cause #3, #6, or #8 for another PLMN in the 3GPP standard, the electronic device may designate that PLMN as a "Forbidden PLMN (i.e., FPLMN)" without invalidating the SIM card until the electronic device is powered off. Similarly, when the electronic device receives an authentication reject for another PLMN in the 3GPP standard, the electronic device may designate that PLMN as a "Forbidden PLMN" without invalidating the SIM card until the electronic device is powered off. This reduces the PLMN scan time by not scanning for that PLMN anymore, thereby reducing the time to return to the RPLMN.

[0139] When an electronic device receives no response during network registration for another PLMN, the electronic device can immediately terminate the network registration procedure by setting the number of network registration attempts to the maximum, rather than attempting five network registration attempts according to the 3GPP standard. When an electronic device receives rejection causes #16, #17, and #22 for another PLMN according to the 3GPP standard, the electronic device can immediately terminate the network registration procedure by setting the number of network registration attempts to the maximum, rather than attempting five network registration attempts according to the 3GPP standard. This can reduce the time required to return to the RPLMN by not continuously attempting network registration for another PLMN that is likely to be difficult to obtain.

[0140] In operation (811), the electronic device can determine whether it has obtained service from another PLMN.

[0141] In operation (813), if service is not obtained from another PLMN, the electronic device can only provide data packet service in the current RAT of the RPLMN. In other words, voice call service may still not be available. A method for searching for a network capable of voice call service while only providing data packet service in the current RAT of the RPLMN will be further described in FIGS. 9 and 10 .

[0142] In operation (815), if another PLMN is acquired, the electronic device can determine whether the priority of the other PLMN is lower than that of the RPLMN. In other words, the electronic device can determine whether the priority of the other PLMN is lower than that of the RPLMN. Whether the priority of the other PLMN is lower than that of the RPLMN can be determined based on the priorities described above in FIG. 3.

[0143] In operation (819), if the priority of another PLMN is higher than that of the RPLMN, the electronic device can provide voice call service and data packet service to the user by using the other PLMN.

[0144] In operation (817), if the priority of another PLMN is lower than that of the RPLMN, the electronic device may set the HPLMN search timer to the maximum. If the priority is lower than that of the RPLMN, the HPLMN search timer may cause the electronic device to return to the RPLMN. Therefore, the electronic device may set the HPLMN search timer to the maximum to prevent the electronic device from returning to the RPLMN and entering the IMS voice not available state. The electronic device may set the HPLMN search timer to the maximum at the time of determining whether the acquired other PLMN can provide voice call services.

[0145] In operation (819), the electronic device can provide voice call service and data packet service to the user through another PLMN.

[0146] Below, we will explain how to search for RATs and PLMNs that provide voice call services in Stage 2.

[0147] FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 are flowcharts illustrating a method for searching a network providing a voice call service in stage 2 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0148] The operations described below may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of the operations may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel. The operations illustrated in FIG. 9 may be performed by at least one component of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 , the electronic device (101) of FIG. 2 , the electronic device (101) of FIG. 3 , and the electronic device (400) of FIG. 4 ).

[0149] Referring to FIG. 9, a method for searching for a network providing voice call services in Stage 2 is illustrated when the electronic device is located within the country. In other words, a method for searching for a network providing voice call services when the electronic device is not roaming is illustrated.

[0150] In operation (901), the electronic device can set a timer to a first time.

[0151] The electronic device determines the conditions for performing a scan after the timer expires, so the timer can respond to the scan cycle.

[0152] In operation (903), the electronic device can determine whether a cell has changed by comparing the cell in which the timer started and the cell in which the timer ended after the timer expires.

[0153] In operation (905), the electronic device may set the timer to a second time if the cell has not changed. The second time may be longer than the first time. For example, the first time may be 12 minutes. The second time may be 60 minutes. The first time may correspond to the short time in FIG. 6. The second time may correspond to the long time in FIG. 6. After the second time has expired, the electronic device may determine again whether the cell has changed.

[0154] Electronic devices may be more likely to discover networks that support voice call service when their cell network has changed. The electronic device may perform actions to perform a scan when the cell network has changed.

[0155] However, if PLMN acquisition was attempted prior to Stage 2 but rejection causes #16, #17, and #22 were received, the electronic device may perform a scan when the timer expires, regardless of whether the cell has changed. Additionally, if network registration was attempted prior to Stage 2 but there was no response, the electronic device may perform a scan when the timer expires, regardless of whether the cell has changed.

[0156] In operation (907), the electronic device can determine whether the electronic device is in an RRC idle state when a cell has changed.

[0157] In operation (909), if the electronic device is not in the RRC idle state, the electronic device may wait for 10 seconds and then determine again whether the electronic device is in the RRC idle state. The time for which the electronic device waits is merely an example, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In other words, if the electronic device is not in the RRC idle state (i.e., in the RRC connected state), the electronic device may wait until it becomes in the RRC idle state. In other words, if the electronic device is in the RRC connected state, the electronic device may suspend scanning until it becomes in the RRC idle state in order to provide continuous data packet services to the user.

[0158] In operation (911), if the electronic device is in an RRC idle state, the electronic device can perform a scan.

[0159] An electronic device can perform a RAT scan and a PLMN scan. The electronic device can attempt to acquire the scanned RAT and the scanned PLMN. The electronic device can attempt to acquire the EPLMN among the scanned PLMNs. The method for performing the RAT scan and PLMN scan and attempting to acquire the scanned RAT and the scanned PLMN may be the same as Stage 1.

[0160] In operation (913), the electronic device can determine whether another PLMN or another RAT has been acquired.

[0161] If no other PLMN or other RAT is acquired, the operation may return to step (901) and set the timer to the first time.

[0162] In operation (915), if a service is obtained from another PLMN or another RAT, the electronic device can provide a voice call service to the user using the other PLMN or another RAT.

[0163] By controlling the scan cycle according to the above-described operation, the electronic device can reduce unnecessary scans. By reducing unnecessary scans, the electronic device can reduce power consumption.

[0164] Referring to FIG. 10, a method for searching for a network providing voice call services in Stage 2 is illustrated when the electronic device is located overseas. In other words, a method for searching for a network providing voice call services when the electronic device is roaming is illustrated.

[0165] The operations described below may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of the operations may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel. The operations illustrated in FIG. 10 may be performed by at least one component of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 , the electronic device (101) of FIG. 2 , the electronic device (101) of FIG. 3 , and the electronic device (400) of FIG. 4 ).

[0166] In action (1001), the electronic device can set the timer to a third time.

[0167] In operation (1003), the electronic device may determine whether a timer has expired and a cell change has occurred. If a cell change has occurred, the electronic device may be more likely to search for a different PLMN or a different RAT depending on its movement.

[0168] In operation (1005), the electronic device may forcibly release the RRC connection if there is a cell change and set the timer for the next scan to the third time. Then, the electronic device may perform operation (1013).

[0169] In operation (1007), the electronic device may set the timer for the next scan to the fourth time if there is no cell change.

[0170] The fourth time period may be longer than the third time period. For example, the third time period may be 12 minutes, and the fourth time period may be 60 minutes. The third time period may correspond to the short time period in Figure 7. The fourth time period may correspond to the long time period in Figure 7.

[0171] In operation (1009), the electronic device can determine whether it is in an RRC connection (i.e., RRC connected) state.

[0172] In operation (1011), the electronic device may wait for 10 seconds if it is in an RRC connection state. After waiting for 10 seconds, the electronic device may determine again whether the electronic device is in an RRC state. The time for which the electronic device waits is merely an example, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In other words, if the cell has not changed and the electronic device is in an RRC connection state, the electronic device may wait until it becomes an RRC idle state. This may be to provide a smooth data packet service to the user, since the cell has not changed, and thus the possibility of searching for another PLMN or another RAT is low.

[0173] In operation (1013), when in an RRC idle state, the electronic device can perform a scan. The electronic device can perform a RAT scan and a PLMN scan.

[0174] In operation (1015), the electronic device may determine whether a new PLMN or a new RAT has been scanned as a result of the scan.

[0175] In action (1017), the electronic device may set the timer to a third time if a new PLMN or a new RAT is scanned.

[0176] If a new PLMN or RAT is scanned, there is a high probability that another PLMN or RAT exists in the current location of the electronic device. Therefore, the electronic device can shorten the scan cycle by setting it to a third hour to acquire a network capable of voice call service more quickly.

[0177] In operation (1019), the electronic device may set the timer to a fourth time if a new PLMN or a new RAT is not scanned.

[0178] Since the new PLMN or RAT is not scanned, the possibility of other new PLMNs or RATs existing may be low. Therefore, the electronic device may set the scan cycle to the fourth hour, which is longer than the third hour, to prevent unnecessary scanning.

[0179] The electronic device may attempt to acquire the scanned PLMN or scanned RAT based on the scan results. The electronic device may attempt to acquire the scanned PLMN or scanned RAT in the same manner as in Stage 1.

[0180] In operation (1021), the electronic device may determine whether service is obtained from another PLMN or another RAT.

[0181] If no other PLMN or other RAT is acquired, the electronic device may perform operation (1001) again.

[0182] In operation (1023), if another PLMN or another RAT is acquired, the electronic device can provide a voice call service using the acquired other PLMN or the acquired other RAT.

[0183] By controlling the timer according to the above-described operation, the electronic device can reduce unnecessary scans. By reducing unnecessary scans, the electronic device can reduce power consumption.

[0184] FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining an operation method of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0185] The operations described below may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of the operations may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel. The operations illustrated in FIG. 10 may be performed by at least one component of an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 , the electronic device (101) of FIG. 2 , the electronic device (101) of FIG. 3 , and the electronic device (400) of FIG. 4 ).

[0186] An electronic device may include a memory (e.g., memory (130) of FIG. 1 and memory (420) of FIG. 4) containing instructions. The electronic device may include a processor (e.g., processor (120) of FIG. 1, processor (120) of FIG. 2 and processor (410) of FIG. 4) that executes the instructions. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to perform the following operations.

[0187] In operation (1110), the electronic device can determine whether a voice call service is available.

[0188] In operation (1120), the electronic device may check for another RAT supported by the RPLMN of the electronic device (e.g., PLMN 1 (321) of FIG. 3) if voice call service is not available.

[0189] In operation (1130), the electronic device may perform a RAT scan to obtain another identified RAT.

[0190] In operation (1140), the electronic device may perform a PLMN scan to acquire a PLMN other than the RPLMN in the current RAT if the electronic device fails to acquire a cell of another RAT as a result of the RAT scan.

[0191] Since the matters described above in FIGS. 1 to 10 can be applied to each of the operations illustrated in FIG. 11, a more detailed description is omitted.

[0192] According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to provide the voice call service to another PLMN if another PLMN is acquired as a result of the PLMN scan.

[0193] According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to attempt to acquire a PLMN having a highest priority among the two or more different PLMNs if two or more different PLMNs are acquired as a result of the PLMN scan.

[0194] In one embodiment, if two or more other PLMNs include a PLMN providing a combined network, the other PLMN with the highest priority may be the PLMN providing the combined network.

[0195] In one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to set the HPLMN search timer to a maximum if the priority of another PLMN providing voice call service is lower than the priority of the RPLMN.

[0196] In one embodiment, other PLMNs may include EHPLMN and EPLMN when the location of the electronic device is domestic.

[0197] According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to provide data packet service in a current RAT of an RPLMN if no other PLMN is acquired as a result of a PLMN scan.

[0198] According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to provide data packet services in the current RAT of the RPLMN. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to periodically perform a RAT scan and a PLMN scan.

[0199] According to one embodiment, the instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to determine whether the electronic device is located domestically or internationally based on the electronic device's HPLMN. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to perform RAT scans and PLMN scans in different ways depending on the electronic device's location.

[0200] According to one embodiment, an electronic device may include a memory that stores instructions. The electronic device may include a processor that executes the instructions. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to perform a RAT scan and a PLMN scan to provide voice call service if a voice call service is not available in the RPLMN of the electronic device. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to provide data packet service in the current RAT of the RPLMN if another RAT and another PLMN are not acquired as a result of the RAT scan and the PLMN scan. The instructions, when executed by the processor, may cause the electronic device to periodically perform a RAT scan and a PLMN scan.

[0201] According to one embodiment, an operating method of an electronic device may include an operation of determining whether a voice call service is available. If the voice call service is not available, the operating method of the electronic device may include an operation of checking for another radio access technology (RAT) supported by a registered public land mobile network (RPLMN) of the electronic device. The operating method of the electronic device may include an operation of performing a RAT scan to acquire the other identified RAT. If the other RAT is not acquired as a result of the RAT scan, the operating method of the electronic device may include an operation of performing a PLMN scan to acquire a public land mobile network (PLMN) different from the RPLMN in the current RAT.

[0202] According to one embodiment, the method of operating the electronic device may further include an operation of attempting to acquire a PLMN having a highest priority among the two or more different PLMNs when two or more different PLMNs are acquired as a result of the PLMN scan.

[0203] In one embodiment, the other PLMN with the highest priority may be determined to be the PLMN providing the combined network if two or more other PLMNs include the PLMN providing the combined network.

[0204] According to one embodiment, the method of operating the electronic device may further include setting the HPLMN search timer to a maximum if the priority of another PLMN providing voice call services is lower than the priority of the RPLMN.

[0205] According to one embodiment, the method of operating the electronic device may further include an operation of designating the other PLMN as an FPLMN when receiving rejection cause #3, #6 or #8 when acquiring another PLMN, or receiving an authentication rejection.

[0206] According to one embodiment, the method of operating the electronic device may further include setting the number of network registration attempts to a maximum when rejection cause #16, #17 or #22 is received during network registration for another PLMN, or when no response to network registration is received.

[0207] In one embodiment, the other PLMNs may include an equivalent home registered public land mobile network (HPLMN) and an equivalent public land mobile network (EPLMN) when the location of the electronic device is domestic.

[0208] According to one embodiment, the method of operating the electronic device may further include providing a data packet service in a current RAT of the RPLMN when no other PLMN is acquired as a result of the PLMN scan.

[0209] According to one embodiment, the operation of performing a PLMN scan to acquire a public land mobile network (PLMN) other than an RPLMN in the current RAT may include the operation of providing a data packet service in the current RAT of the RPLMN and periodically performing a RAT scan and a PLMN scan.

[0210] According to one embodiment, the operation of periodically performing a RAT scan and a PLMN scan may include an operation of determining whether the location of the electronic device is domestic or overseas based on the HPLMN of the electronic device, and performing the RAT scan and the PLMN scan in different ways depending on the location of the electronic device.

[0211] The embodiments of the present invention disclosed in this specification and drawings are merely specific examples presented to easily explain the technical contents according to the embodiments of the present invention and to help understand the embodiments of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the various embodiments of the present invention should be interpreted as including all changes or modified forms derived based on the technical ideas of the various embodiments of the present invention in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (101; 400), Memory for storing commands (130; 420); and A processor (120; 410) that executes the above instructions Including, The above instructions, when executed by the processor (120; 410), cause the electronic device (101; 400) to: Determine whether a voice call service is available, and if the voice call service is not available, check for another RAT (radio access technology) supported by the RPLMN (registered public land mobile network) (321) of the electronic device (101; 400), perform a RAT scan to obtain the other confirmed RAT, and if the other RAT is not obtained as a result of the RAT scan, perform a PLMN scan to obtain a PLMN (public land mobile network) other than the RPLMN (321) in the current RAT. Electronic devices (101; 400).

2. In paragraph 1, The above instructions, when executed by the processor (120; 410), cause the electronic device (101; 400) to: If two or more different PLMNs are acquired as a result of the PLMN scan, acquisition is attempted starting from the PLMN with the highest priority among the two or more different PLMNs. Electronic devices (101; 400).

3. In any one of paragraphs 1 and 2, The other PLMN with the highest priority is: If the above two or more other PLMNs include a PLMN providing a combined network, the PLMN is determined to be the PLMN providing the combined network. Electronic devices (101; 400).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The above instructions, when executed by the processor (120; 410), cause the electronic device (101; 400) to: To set the HPLMN search timer to the maximum if the priority of the other PLMN providing the voice call service is lower than the priority of the RPLMN (321). Electronic devices (101; 400).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above instructions, when executed by the processor (120; 410), cause the electronic device (101; 400) to: When receiving rejection cause #3, #6 or #8 when acquiring the other PLMN, or receiving authentication rejection, designate the other PLMN as an FPLMN. Electronic devices (101; 400).

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The above instructions, when executed by the processor (120; 410), cause the electronic device (101; 400) to: If rejection cause #16, #17 or #22 is received during network registration for the above other PLMN, or if no response is received for the above network registration, the number of network registration attempts is set to the maximum. Electronic devices (101; 400).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The other PLMNs mentioned above are: If the location of the electronic device (101; 400) is domestic, including EHPLMN (equivalent home registered public land mobile network; HPLMN) and EPLMN (equivalent public land mobile network; EPLMN). Electronic devices (101; 400).

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above instructions, when executed by the processor (120; 410), cause the electronic device (101; 400) to: If the other PLMN is not acquired as a result of the PLMN scan, the data packet service is provided in the current RAT of the RPLMN (321). Electronic devices (101; 400).

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above instructions, when executed by the processor (120; 410), cause the electronic device (101; 400) to: To provide data packet service in the current RAT of the above RPLMN (321) and to periodically perform the RAT scan and the PLMN scan. Electronic devices (101; 400).

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The above instructions, when executed by the processor (120; 410), cause the electronic device (101; 400) to: Based on the HPLMN of the electronic device (101; 400), it is determined whether the location of the electronic device (101; 400) is domestic or overseas, and the RAT scan and the PLMN scan are performed in different ways depending on the location of the electronic device (101; 400). Electronic devices (101; 400).

11. In an electronic device (101; 400), Memory for storing commands (130; 420); and A processor (120; 410) that executes the above instructions Including, The above instructions, when executed by the processor (120; 410), cause the electronic device (101; 400) to: If a voice call service is not available in the RPLMN (321) of the electronic device (101; 400), a RAT scan and a PLMN scan are performed to provide the voice call service, and if another RAT and another PLMN are not acquired as a result of the RAT scan and the PLMN scan, a data packet service is provided in the current RAT of the RPLMN (321), and whether the electronic device (101; 400) is roaming is determined, and whether there has been a cell change and / or an RRC status is checked in different ways based on whether the electronic device (101; 400) is roaming is performed periodically to perform the RAT scan and the PLMN scan. Electronic devices (101; 400).

12. In the operating method of an electronic device (101; 400), Action to determine whether voice call service is available; If the above voice call service is not available, an operation of checking for another RAT (radio access technology) supported by the RPLMN (registered public land mobile network) (321) of the electronic device (101; 400); An action to perform a RAT scan to obtain the other RATs identified above; and If the other RAT is not acquired as a result of the above RAT scan, an operation of performing a PLMN scan to acquire a PLMN (public land mobile network) other than the RPLMN (321) in the current RAT Including, How it works.

13. In paragraph 12, If two or more different PLMNs are acquired as a result of the PLMN scan above, an operation to attempt acquisition starting from the PLMN with the highest priority among the two or more different PLMNs Including more, How it works.

14. In any one of paragraphs 12 and 13, The other PLMN with the highest priority is: If the above two or more other PLMNs include a PLMN providing a combined network, the PLMN is determined to be the PLMN providing the combined network. How it works.

15. In any one of paragraphs 12 to 14, Action to set the HPLMN search timer to the maximum when the priority of the other PLMN providing the voice call service is lower than the priority of the RPLMN (321). Including more, How it works.

Images