ISDS Protocol Translation for CS Roaming on VoLTE Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a growing incompatibility between networks that provide roaming support, with some relying on circuit switched (CS) systems while more advanced networks have upgraded to Voice over Long-Term Evolution (VOLTE), necessitating an architecture to support CS network users on VOLTE networks.
Innovation Solution
An International Switched Digital Service (ISDS) is configured to translate and convert transmissions between VOLTE and CS protocols, enabling VOLTE networks to register and support CS-based user equipment by converting between different network formats.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If VOLTE networks are deployed to provide advanced voice services, then service quality and network capability are improved, but compatibility with legacy CS network users deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
An IP gateway is introduced as an intermediary component between the VOLTE network and legacy CS network. The IP gateway performs protocol conversion, translating SIP-based VOLTE signaling into ISUP/SS7 signaling that legacy networks understand, and converts media formats between RTP and traditional voice codecs. This mediator enables seamless inter-network communication without requiring changes to either the advanced VOLTE infrastructure or the legacy CS equipment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If legacy CS systems are maintained to support existing users, then user base coverage is preserved, but network technology advancement is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The network architecture is segmented into distinct functional domains: a modern VOLTE core network handling advanced services, and a legacy CS network maintaining existing user support, connected through an IP gateway. This segmentation allows each network segment to operate independently at its optimal technology level, avoiding the need to upgrade the entire network infrastructure while still enabling interoperability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If protocol conversion is implemented to support roaming, then network interoperability is improved, but signaling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The IP gateway consolidates all protocol conversion functions in a single intermediary device, centralizing the signaling complexity rather than distributing it across multiple network elements. The gateway maintains translation tables for number portability, manages roaming agreements, and handles media format conversions, isolating the complexity within one component while presenting simple interfaces to both VOLTE and legacy networks.
Data Source
AI summary
A network may include an International Serials Data System (ISDS) that is configured to register and determine an identity of a receiving or originating user equipment (UE) that has a home network that operates using a different format or standard than the current network. The ISDS may be configured to generate transmissions on behalf of the UE for registration and identification for outgoing and incoming voice or text messages using the format of both networks.