Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
Issue Date
01 2010-10-15
Notice
The purchased products, services and features are stipulated by the contract made between Huawei and the customer. All or part of the products, services and features described in this document may not be within the purchase scope or the usage scope. Unless otherwise specified in the contract, all statements, information, and recommendations in this document are provided "AS IS" without warranties, guarantees or representations of any kind, either express or implied. The information in this document is subject to change without notice. Every effort has been made in the preparation of this document to ensure accuracy of the contents, but all statements, information, and recommendations in this document do not constitute the warranty of any kind, express or implied.
SingleRAN Synchronization
Contents
Contents
1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................1-1
1.1 Scope ............................................................................................................................................ 1-1 1.2 Intended Audience ........................................................................................................................ 1-1 1.3 Change History.............................................................................................................................. 1-1
2 Overview .....................................................................................................................................2-1
2.1 Clock Synchronization ................................................................................................................... 2-1 2.2 Time Synchronization .................................................................................................................... 2-1 2.3 Frequency Synchronization........................................................................................................... 2-2 2.4 Difference Between Time Synchronization and Frequency Synchronization ............................... 2-3
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Contents
4.3.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................. 4-10 4.3.2 Common GPS Reference Clock ..........................................................................................4-11 4.3.3 Common BITS Reference Clock ........................................................................................ 4-12 4.3.4 Common E1/T1 Reference Clock......................................................................................... 4-1 4.3.5 Common IEEE1588 V2 Reference Clock............................................................................. 4-2 4.3.6 Common Synchronous Ethernet Reference Clock .............................................................. 4-4
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1 Introduction
1 Introduction
1.1 Scope
This document describes the synchronization feature of GSM and WCDMA, consisting of the basic principles of clock synchronization, the main clock synchronization techniques, and the SingleRAN clock solutions. The SingleRAN clock solutions consist of the clock solution on the MBSC side, the clock solution on the MBTS side, and the common clock solution on the MBTS side.
MBSC is a GSM+UMTS (GU) multi-mode base station controller of Huawei. In this document, the BSC refers to the MBSC performing the functions of a GSM base station controller, the RNC refers to the MBSC performing the functions of a UMTS base station controller. MBTS is a GU, GSM+LTE (GL), or UMTS+LTE (UL) multi-mode base station of Huawei. In this document, the GSM BTS refers to the MBTS performing the functions of a GSM base station, the NodeB refers to the MBTS performing the functions of a UMTS base station, and the LTE eNodeB refers to the MBTS performing the functions of a LTE base station.
Personnel who are familiar with WCDMA and GSM basics Personnel who need to understand the synchronization feature of the SingleRAN system Personnel who work with Huawei products
Feature change: refers to the change in the synchronization feature. Editorial change: refers to the change in wording or the addition of the information that was not described in the earlier version.
Document Issues
The document issues are as follows:
01 (2010-10-15)
This is the document for the first commercial release of SRAN5.0. Compared with issue Draft (2010-05-15) of SRAN5.0, this issue optimizes the description.
Draft (2010-05-15)
This is the draft for SRAN5.0.
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2 Overview
2 Overview
2.1 Clock Synchronization
Synchronization of clocks in the network is a critical issue for the digital communication network. Synchronization of clocks means that the frequencies or phases of clock signals maintain a precise relation. The purpose of synchronization is to ensure that the frequency or time difference between the devices in a network is kept within an acceptable margin of error. This can prevent the transmission performance in a digital communication system from deterioration, such as bit error and jitter, because data is not correctly transmitted or received. Clock synchronization consists of time synchronization (also known as phase synchronization) and frequency synchronization. The principle of clock synchronization is that a lower-level device is required to synchronize its clock with the clock of an upper-level device. The base station controller needs to synchronize its clock with the clock of the Core Network (CN), and the base station needs to synchronize its clock with the clock of the base station controller.
Phase time, also called phase, is the time delay between the actual signal and the ideal signal at a significant instance (generally, a rising edge or a falling edge), as shown in Figure 2-2.
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Only frequency synchronization is required in GSM and WCDMA systems. The accuracy requirement is 0.05 per million (ppm).
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As shown in Figure 2-4, the difference between time synchronization and frequency synchronization is as follows:
In phase synchronization, Watch A and Watch B always have the same time. In frequency synchronization, Watch A and Watch B have different times, but the time difference between the two is always the same, for example, six hours.
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3 Synchronization Techniques
3 Synchronization Techniques
In a traditional clock synchronization solution, PDH and SDH networks are used to provide clocks for GSM and WCDMA systems. After all-IP evolution, IP networks replace PDH and SDH networks to provide clocks for GSM and WCDMA systems.
Line clock synchronization GPS clock synchronization BITS clock synchronization Ethernet clock synchronization IEEE1588 V2 clock synchronization
Line clock synchronization provides a high-accuracy reference clock for the radio access network without requiring additional equipment. Thus, the cost of network construction is greatly reduced. Line clock is the most widely used synchronization technique.
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The GPS clock synchronization solution can be used for time synchronization and frequency synchronization. The GPS clock synchronization solution can accurately provide the UTC-based time.
Disadvantages
The GPS clock synchronization solution requires each base station to be equipped with a GPS reference receiver, which increases the overall CAPEX. The GPS antenna requires the field angle of 45of the centrum to be clear from obstacles. Thus, the antenna site selection becomes limited. Feeders need to be installed between the GPS antenna and the base station. In the case of a complicated construction venue or building, feeder installation can be difficult. In addition, feeder installation requires the consent of both the house owners and the property management authorities, and thus the negotiation may be challenging.
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A BITS device can synchronize its clock with the primary reference clock and provide various timing signals for the digital devices to be synchronized. The types of reference clock of a BITS device can be the E1 link, 10 MHz, 5 MHz, 1 MHz, or 2048 KHz. A BITS device may have different configurations based on the importance of the site. A high-end configuration of the BITS device is rubidium clock + GPS or OXCO + GPS. The GPS module locks the phase and frequency of the GPS 1PPS clock signals to ensure the long-term stability of the clock. The rubidium clock or the OXCO ensures the short-term stability of the clock. In this manner, the stability of the clock is guaranteed. If a BITS device is not configured with GPS + crystal oscillator, it can lock the upper-level reference clock through an E1 link.
BITS clocks are generally layered according to the clock quality. A clock synchronization network adopts a top-down design and provides master and slave synchronization clocks. The clock signals in the clock synchronization network are distributed through transmission links in a layered and hierarchical manner. Figure 3-2 shows the BITS clock synchronization solution.
The BITS of the PRC/LPR stratum generally uses the rubidium clock + GPS satellite synchronization mode. A cesium or hydrogen clock can be used to replace the rubidium clock. The BITS of the Synchronization Supply Unit (SSU) stratum can be the Transmit Network Clock (TNC) or the Local Network Clock (LNC).
BITS BITS
of the TNC stratum uses a rubidium clock as the local clock. of the LNC stratum uses an OXCO as the local clock.
The BITS of the SDH Equipment Clock (SEC) stratum usually uses a constant-temperature crystal oscillator as the local clock. SEC specifies a requirement for the transmission device that carries the source clock signals.
Transmission devices are usually deployed in ring topology. To prevent an upper-level clock device from tracing the reference clock of a lower-level clock device in ring topology, the strata of reference clocks are specified by the Synchronization Status Message (SSM) and are ranked in descending order of PRC,
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TNC, LNC, and SEC. A BITS device will not choose a reference clock whose stratum is lower than the stratum of itself.
Disadvantages
BITS clock signals are transmitted through coaxial cables or differential cables, and thus the transmission distance is relatively short. Therefore, a BITS device provides reference clock signals only for the communication devices in the same telecommunication equipment room.
The Ethernet clock synchronization technique is a type of IP network clock solution. See the IP Network Clock Feature Parameter Description for details.
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This is a mature technique. Clock signals are recovered through the physical-layer code streams. The performance of the recovered clock is reliable, and the quality of the recovered clock is similar to the quality of the clock transmitted on an SDH link. The clock features high reliability and is not affected by the load fluctuation in the network.
Disadvantages
There is a restriction on the deployment of a synchronous Ethernet. Clock signals are transmitted on links. Therefore, all the links on the clock transmission path are required to support synchronous Ethernet in principle. Clock extraction is not supported by all ports. This solution does not provide time synchronization.
Best Master Clock (BMC) algorithm The devices in the network may have different clock reference sources. Therefore, before clock synchronization is performed, the tracing relationships of the master and slave clocks of the entire network need to be determined. This algorithm prevents the occurrence of multiple or no master clocks and free-run condition.
Principle of master and slave synchronization The IEEE1588 V2 protocol adopts the handshake method and uses a precise timestamp to implement frequency and time synchronization.
Transparent Clock (TC) model The TC does not participate in the decision of the master and slave clocks. It only processes the delay. When a packet is transmitted over the intermediate equipment, extra delay is generated. The TC labels a timestamp when a packet is received and labels another timestamp when this packet is transmitted. The time difference between the two timestamps is the time elapsed when this packet traverses the TC.
The IEEE1588 V2 clock synchronization technique is a type of IP network clock solution and used in Ethernet transport networks. See the IP Network Clock Feature Parameter Description for details.
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An external clock device on the core network side, or a Packet Transport Network (PTN) device such as the MBTS on the radio access network side, provides clock signals for a PTN device through a dedicated clock port (1PPS + serial port). In this case, the MBTS does not need to support the IEEE1588 V2 protocol.
TC mode FE/GE ports are used to transmit clock signals. If the IEEE1588 V2 server provides time synchronization, then all the devices on the clock transmission path are required to support the IEEE1588 V2 protocol.
According to the IEEE1588 V2 protocol, the clocks in the entire network are classified into TC, BC, and Ordinary Clock (OC):
The TC is used to transparently transmit clock signals in the network. It processes the delay generated on the path transmitting IEEE1588 V2 packets. The BC is an intermediate clock device in the network. A BC has multiple IEEE1588 V2 ports. One IEEE1588 V2 port of the BC works in slave mode and synchronizes the time and frequency of the system clock with an upper-level device. Other IEEE1588 V2 ports of the BC work in master mode and transmit synchronization information level by level. The OC is an initial device or a terminal device. Such a device has only one IEEE1588 V2 port and works in slave or master mode. The MBTS functions only as an OC.
The IEEE1588 V2 frequency synchronization does not require a TC or BC, as shown in Figure 3-5.
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The extracted clock signals are of high quality. The IEEE1588 V2 clock synchronization solution provides time synchronization and frequency synchronization. IEEE1588 V2 is an open standard protocol. The clock used in the PTN can be smoothly upgraded from a synchronous Ethernet clock to an IEEE1588 V2 clock.
Disadvantages
The IEEE1588 V2 clock synchronization solution requires an IEEE1588 V2 server. If an IEEE1588 V2 server provides time synchronization, all the devices on the clock transmission path are required to support the IEEE1588 V2 protocol. Deploying devices supporting the IEEE1588 V2 protocol on a large scale in the network is challenging.
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4.1.1 Overview
The clock synchronization subsystem of the MBSC provides system clock for the MBSC and provides reference clocks for base stations. The clock synchronization subsystem of the MBSC consists of the clock board and the clock processing units of each subrack. The clock board of the MBSC can be the GCUa or GCGa board. Users can run the SET CLKTYPE command to set the type of a clock board. The number of MBSCs is greater than the number of CN devices, and many MBSCs are not located in the central telecommunications room. Therefore, an MBSC generally obtains the reference clock from an upper-level CN device through the transmission links. The accuracy of the local clock of an MBSC is generally 4.6 ppm.
External clocks
BITS
clock
The BITS clock signals are of three types: 2 MHz, 2 Mbit/s, and 1.5 Mbit/s. The 2 MHz and 2 Mbit/s clock signals are E1 clock signals, and the 1.5 Mbit/s clock signals are T1 clock signals. The BITS clock has two input modes: BITS0 and BITS1. BITS0 and BITS1 correspond to the CLKIN0 and CLKIN1 ports on the clock board respectively. The MBSC obtains the BITS clock signals through the CLKIN0 or CLKIN1 port. The parameters REF2MCLKSW1 and REF2MCLKSW2 are used to enable the switch of BITS clock on a transport interface board.
External
8 kHz clock
Through the COM1 port on the clock board, the MBSC obtains 8 kHz standard clock signals from an external device.
Line clock The line clock signals are extracted from the CN by an interface board of the MPS. The line clock signals are transmitted to the clock board through the backplane channel of the MPS. The line clock signals are phase-locked by the clock module to generate 8 kHz clock signals. The line clock has two input modes, LINE0 and LINE1. LINE0 and LINE1 correspond to backplane channel 1 and backplane channel 2 respectively.
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The parameters BACK8KCLKSW1 and BACK8KCLKSW2 are used to enable the switch of the line clock on the backplane.
GPS clock The GPS clock provides 1PPS clock signals for the MBSC. The MBSC receives the GPS signals at the ANT port on the GCGa board that is configured with a GPS satellite card. If the MBSC is configured with the GCUa board that is not configured with a GPS satellite card, the GPS clock is not applicable to the MBSC.
Local oscillator If the MBSC fails to obtain any external clock, the MBSC obtains its working clock signals from the local oscillator.
You can run the MML command ADD CLKSRC to configure the parameter SRCT to set the clock source type. The reference clock has three operating modes:
Automatic mode Users need not specify the reference clock. The MBSC can automatically select the reference clock with the highest priority.
Manual mode Users need to specify the reference clock. The MBSC cannot change the reference clock even when the current specified reference clock is faulty.
Self-oscillation mode The self-oscillation mode is the initial operating mode of the MBSC clock.
Users can run the SET CLKMODE command to set the clock mode.
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If the MPS is used to extract the clock signals, the clock signals can obtained in the following ways:
The The
clock signals can be obtained by the port on the panel of the clock board.
clock signals can be obtained by the port on the panel of an interface board that can extract line clock signals. The interface board then transmits the clock signals to the clock board through the backplane. clock signals can be generated by the oscillator on the clock board.
The
If the EPS is used to extract the clock signals, an interface board rather than an Ethernet interface board is used to obtain the clock signals. The clock signals extracted by the EPS are transmitted to the clock board through clock signal cables. If the MBSC is configured with the Gb interface board, the Gb interface board extracts clock signals from either the backplane or the CN. The Gb interface board, however, cannot extract clock signals from them simultaneously. If the PS services and CS services use different reference clocks and the clock signals are extracted from the CN, the Gb interface board serves only the Gb interface. If the PS services and CS services use different reference clocks, the CS services can use the reference clock of the PS services only when the parameter REFUSELOCALCLK is set to YES.
Figure 4-2 shows the connections of the clock signal cables between the clock boards in the MPS and the SCUa boards in the EPS when the MBSC is configured with active and standby clock boards and SCUa boards.
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The active and standby clock boards in the MPS are connected to the active and standby SCUa boards in the EPS through the Y-shaped clock signal cables. This connection mode ensures that the system clock of the MBSC works properly in the case of a single-point failure of the clock board, Y-shaped clock signal cable, or SCUa board. In addition, the Y-shaped clock signal cables ensure the proper working of the SCUa boards during the switchover of the active and standby clock boards.
In the MPS, the clock board transmits clock signals to the SCUa boards through the backplane channel. Therefore, the Y-shaped clock signal cable is not required.
Figure 4-3 shows the process of clock synchronization in the MPS/EPS when the clock board extracts clock signals from an external device or from the GPS. Figure 4-4 shows the process of clock synchronization in the MPS/EPS when the clock board extracts line clock signals from the Iu-CS or A interface.
In BM/TC separated configuration mode, the TransCoder (TC) subrack extracts the line clock signals from the A interface and then the clock board in the BM subrack extracts the clock signals from the Ater interface. The MPS and the EPS are collectively known as Basic Module (BM) subrack, and the TCS is known as TC subrack.
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As illustrated in Figure 4-3 and Figure 4-4, the process of clock synchronization in the MPS/EPS is as follows: 1. The clock signals are obtained from the external reference clock. If an external clock is used, external clock signals travel to the clock board through the port on the panel of the clock board. If the GPS clock is used, clock signals travel to the clock board through the GPS antenna port. When the external reference clock is the line clock, the clock signals travel to the clock board through the backplane channel after extracted by the MPS or through clock signal cables after extracted by the EPS. 2. The reference clock is phase-locked in the clock board to generate clock signals. 3. The clock board in the MPS transmits the clock signals to the SCUa board in the MPS through the backplane and in each EPS through the clock signal output ports on the clock board. 4. The SCUa board in the MPS/EPS transmits the clock signals to the other boards in the same subrack through the backplane.
The clock synchronization subsystem of the MBSC transmits reference clock signals to a base station through the Iub or Abis interface board.
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1. The TCS extracts line clock signals from the A interface. Then, the line clock signals are processed by the A interface board to generate the required clock signals. 2. In the TCS, the A interface board transmits the clock signals to the SCUa board through the backplane channel. Then, the SCUa board transmits the clock signals to the other boards in the TCS.
In A over IP over Ethernet mode, the MBSC can extract only external clock signals. In A over IP over E1/T1 mode, the MBSC can extract only line clock signals.
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The clock board in the MPS sends the 1PPS signals and synchronization time packets to the SCUa board in each subrack. The SCUa board in each subrack then transmits the 1PPS signals and synchronization time packets to the other boards in the same subrack. The boards generate the required RFN signals based on the received 1PPS signals and synchronization time packets. The 1PPS signals can be generated by the clock board.
4.2.1 Overview
In GSM and WCDMA networks, base stations do not need to be synchronized with each other. Each base station can obtain the reference clock from the MBSC. The clock accuracy requirement of a base station is generally 0.05 ppm. Clock synchronization provides the reference clock for the normal operation of the MBTS and generates NodeB Frame Number (BFN) or GSM FN (GFN). The BFN or GFN is the basis for frame synchronization.
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The MBTS obtains the reference clock through the clock synchronization for the internal frame synchronization.
Iub/Abis Clock
The MBTS is synchronized with the line reference clock of its upper-level NE such as the MBSC. The synchronization with the Abis clock (also known as the BSC tracing clock) can be enabled by setting ClkType to TRCBSC_CLK, and the synchronization with the Iub clock can be enabled by setting CLKSRC to LINE. In line clock synchronization, the MBTS receives the clock signals from an upper-level NE through the E1/T1/Ethernet port. Clock signals must be available on the E1/T1/Ethernet link for the MBTS to obtain the line reference clock.
GPS Clock
If there is no upper-level clock or the upper-level clock is unstable, the GPS clock can be used as the reference clock of an MBTS. The synchronization with the GPS clock for a BTS can be enabled by setting ClkType to TRCGPS_CLK, and the synchronization with the GPS clock for a NodeB can be enabled by setting CLKSRC to GPSCARD. In GPS clock synchronization, the GPS clock serves as the reference clock of the MBTS and a GPS satellite card is required. In the case of a DBS3900/BTS3900/BTS3900A, the Universal Satellite card and Clock Unit (USCU) needs to be configured. For a BTS, the parameter CFGFLAG must be set to YES. The parameters relevant to this clock synchronization mode are listed below:
GPSORGLONASS: specifies whether the GPS clock or the Glonass clock works as the reference clock when two satellite cards are used. ANTENNALONG: specifies the length of the feeder cable, which connects the GPS satellite card to the antenna. The actual delay of the signals transmitted on the feeder can be calculated based on the length of the feeder cable, thus improving the timing accuracy of the GPS satellite card. ANTENNAPOWERSWITCH: specifies whether to supply power to the GPS antenna. When the GPS antenna requires power supply, this parameter needs to be set to SENDPOWER. When the GPS antenna does not require power supply, this parameter needs to be set to NOPOWER.
The GPS clock signals are processed and synchronized as follows: The GPS antenna receives and transmits the GPS satellite signals to the GPS satellite card for processing. The GPS satellite card then forwards the signals from the USCU to the main control board. The main control board synchronizes the clock signals with the MBTS clock signals. A GPS antenna can simultaneously trace up to eight satellites.
BITS Clock
The synchronization with the BITS clock for a BTS can be enabled by setting ClkType to EXTSYN_CLK, and the synchronization with the BITS clock for a NodeB can be enabled by setting CLKSRC to BITS. In BITS clock synchronization, the external BITS clock works as the reference clock of the MBTS. In the case of a DBS3900/BTS3900/BTS3900A, the USCU must be configured. The BITS clock signals are processed and synchronized as follows:
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The BITS clock output port is connected to the BITS clock input port on the USCU. The master clock module of the MBTS performs phase-locking and frequency division on the received clock signals to generate clock signals required by the MBTS.
IP Clock
The MBTS supports IP clock synchronization. In an all-IP network, the MBTS can obtain clock signals from the IP network. IP clocks can be classified into the synchronous Ethernet clock and the IEEE1588 V2 clock. The IP network clock signals are processed and synchronized as follows: The MBTS obtains clock signals from the FE/GE link. After local selection or frequency division, the signals are sent to the clock module in the main control board as the reference clock. The clock module in the main control board then converts the signals through phase-locking to generate clock signals required by the MBTS. The 10 Mbit/s FE port of the MBTS does not support synchronization with the Ethernet clock.
Internal Clock
The internal clock of the MBTS is generated by the main control board. The internal clock of the MBTS can work in free-run mode to keep the MBTS running if the external reference clock is disabled or lost. The enhanced stratum 3 OCXO with high accuracy works as the system clock of the MBTS. The OCXO can ensure the normal operation of the MBTS for up to 90 days.
As shown in Figure 4-7, the process of clock synchronization in the NodeB is as follows: 1. The clock signals are obtained from the external reference clock. If the external reference clock is the line clock, the WMPT extracts the clock signals from the transmission links over the Iub interface. If the external reference clock is the GPS clock, the GPS
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antenna receives and transmits the GPS clock signals to the GPS satellite card for processing before forwarding them to the WMPT. If the external reference clock is the BITS clock, the BITS port on the USCU receives and forwards the clock signals to the WMPT. 2. The WMPT delivers the clock signals to its clock module. 3. In the WMPT, the clock module performs phase-locking and frequency division on the clock signals, and then generates various clock signals required by the NodeB. 4. The WMPT distributes the clock signals to the other boards of the NodeB. Note that the clock signals are forwarded to the MRRU/MRFU through the WBBP. Figure 4-8 BTS clock synchronization process
As shown in Figure 4-8, the process of clock synchronization in the BTS is as follows: 1. The clock signals are obtained from the external reference clock. If the external reference clock is the line clock, the GTMU extracts the clock signals from the transmission links over the Abis interface. If the external reference clock is the GPS clock, the GPS antenna receives and sends the GPS clock signals to GPS satellite card for processing before forwarding them to the GTMU. If the external reference clock is the BITS clock, the BITS port on the USCU receives and forwards the clock signals to the GTMU. 2. The GTMU delivers the clock signals to its clock module. 3. In the GTMU, the clock module performs phase-locking and frequency division on the clock signals, and then generates various clock signals required by the BTS. 4. The GTMU distributes the clock signals to the other boards of the BTS.
If the MBTS is configured with the Universal BaseBand Radio Interface Board (UBRI), the clock signals are forwarded to the MRRU/MRFU through the UBRI.
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The common clock solution enables two base stations using different radio access technologies (RATs) to share the same clock source. In a common clock scenario, only one set of clock equipment is required. After the base station using a RAT obtains the reference clock, this base station shares its reference clock with the base station using a different RAT. For example, a BTS can share its reference clock with an eNodeB, and an eNodeB can also share its reference clock with a BTS. If the base station using a RAT uses the reference clock shared by the base station using a different RAT, the reference clock of the former base station needs to be configured as the peer reference clock. For example, if a BTS uses the reference clock shared by an eNodeB, the parameter ClkType of the BTS needs to be set to PEER_CLK. The GU/GL/UL common clock solution is supported by Huawei MBTSs that share a common baseband unit (BBU). The common clock solution corresponds to the features MRFD-221601 Multi-mode BS Common Reference Clock (NodeB) and MRFD-211601 Multi-mode BS Common Reference Clock (GBTS).
When the base stations using different RATs share a BBU, the boards of the base stations are installed in the same BBU.
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To use a common E1/T1 reference clock, the following conditions must be met:
The base station using a RAT needs to be connected to the transport network through an E1/T1 link, on which clock signals are transmitted. This base station obtains the E1/T1 reference clock through the Abis/Iub/S1 interface. The base station using a different RAT can use this synchronous E1/T1 reference clock through the backplane channels of the multi-mode BBU.
Table 4-1 describes the typical deployment scenarios of a common E1/T1 reference clock. Table 4-1 Typical deployment scenarios of a common E1/T1 reference clock Deployment Scenario Common E1/T1 reference clock on the BTS side Description When TDM over E1/T1 transmission is used over the Abis interface and IP over FE/GE transmission is used over the S1 interface, the eNodeB can obtain the reference clock from the E1/T1 link of the Abis interface. When TDM over E1/T1 transmission is used over the Abis interface and IP over FE/GE transmission is used over the Iub interface, the NodeB can obtain the reference clock from the E1/T1 link of the Abis interface. Common E1/T1 reference clock on the NodeB side When TDM over E1/T1 transmission is used over the Iub interface and IP over GE transmission is used over the S1 interface, the eNodeB can obtain the reference clock from the E1/T1 link of the Iub interface. When the Iub and Abis interfaces use common transmission (co-transmission) based on IP over E1/T1 or IP-based hybrid transmission on the MBTS side, the BTS can obtain the reference clock from the E1/T1 link of the Iub interface.
The Universal Transmission Processing unit (UTRP) in GSM mode does not support E1/T1 clock synchronization. The UTRP in LTE/UMTS mode supports E1/T1 clock synchronization. For details about co-transmission, see the Common Transmission Feature Parameter Description of the SingleRAN
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The multicast IEEE1588 V2 clock is not supported in GU, GL, and UL co-transmission through FE port interconnection. A BTS supports the common IEEE1588 V2 clock only when it has a GTMUb board.
Table 4-2 describes the typical deployment scenarios of a common IEEE1588 V2 reference clock. Table 4-2 Typical deployment scenarios of a common IEEE1588 V2 reference clock Deployment Scenario Common IEEE1588 V2 reference clock on the eNodeB side Description When the Abis and S1 interfaces use IP-based co-transmission on the MBTS side and the IP network supports IEEE1588 V2 clock synchronization, the BTS can obtain the reference clock from the LMPT through the backplane channels of the multi-mode BBU. When the Iub and S1 interfaces use IP-based co-transmission on the MBTS side and the IP network supports IEEE1588 V2 clock synchronization, the NodeB can obtain the reference clock from the LMPT through the backplane channels of the multi-mode BBU. Common IEEE1588 V2 reference clock on the NodeB side When the Iub and Abis interfaces use IP-based co-transmission on the MBTS side and the IP network supports IEEE1588 V2 reference clock, the BTS can obtain the reference clock from the WMPT through the backplane channels of the multi-mode BBU.
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Table 4-3 describes the typical deployment scenarios of a synchronous Ethernet reference clock.
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Table 4-3 Typical deployment scenarios of a synchronous Ethernet reference clock Deployment Scenario Common synchronous Ethernet reference clock on the eNodeB side Description When the Abis and S1 interfaces use IP-based co-transmission on the MBTS side and the IP network supports Ethernet clock synchronization, the BTS can obtain the reference clock from the LMPT or LTE UTRP through the backplane channels of the multi-mode BBU. When the Iub and S1 interfaces use IP-based co-transmission on the MBTS side and the IP network supports Ethernet clock synchronization, the NodeB can obtain the reference clock from the LMPT or LTE UTRP through the backplane channels of the multi-mode BBU. Common synchronous Ethernet reference clock on the NodeB side When the Iub and Abis interfaces use IP-based co-transmission on the MBTS side and the IP network supports synchronous Ethernet clock, the BTS can obtain the reference clock from the WMPT or UMTS UTRP through the backplane channels of the multi-mode BBU.
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Figure 5-1 shows the relationships among synchronization functions. Figure 5-1 Relationships among synchronization functions
Network synchronization is responsible for the distribution of clocks and allows the clocks to operate at the same frequency in different network nodes. Node synchronization is responsible for the measurement of phase difference between the RNC and the NodeB. Node synchronization is the basis for the numbering of frames between the RNC and the NodeB and for frame timing. The correct operation of node synchronization is dependent on the proper operation of network synchronization. Frame synchronization is responsible for the numbering and transmission of frames between the RNC and the NodeB at the correct time, thus compensating for transmission delay and processing delay on the RNC-NodeB path. The correct operation of frame synchronization within the radio network subsystem (RNS) is dependent on the proper operation of node synchronization. Radio interface synchronization is responsible for the alignment of frames between the NodeB and the UE. For the synchronization process in the UTRAN, see 3GPP TS 25.402.
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Clock selection Clock generation Clock holdover Clock distribution within a network node
The network synchronization modes shown in Figure 5-2 are described as follows:
Plesiochronous synchronization In a plesiochronous network, each node has an independent clock. Master-slave synchronization Master-slave synchronization is the most commonly used synchronization mode. A master-slave synchronization network has a single PRC, to which all other clocks on the network are locked.
Mutual synchronization In a mutual synchronization network, there is no PRC. Each clock can receive the clock signals from another.
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The RNC and NodeB need to synchronize the frequencies of their internal timing units (TUs) with a common and traceable reference clock. The TU generates accurate and stable clock signals, distributes them within the RNC or NodeB, and provides them for the outgoing PDH/SDH links or the radio interface. In IP over Iub transmission mode, the RNC also generates time stamped IP packets.
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Table 5-1 Parameters involved in node synchronization Parameter Description t1 t2 t3 t4 RFN indicating the time when the RNC sends a DL Node Synchronization control frame to the transport network layer BFN indicating the time when the NodeB receives the DL Node Synchronization control frame from the transport network layer BFN indicating the time when the NodeB sends a UL Node Synchronization control frame to the transport network layer RFN indicating the time when the RNC receives the UL Node Synchronization control frame from the transport network layer
The node synchronization procedure is described as follows: 1. To measure the time offset between the RNC and the NodeB, the RNC sends the NodeB a DL Node Synchronization control frame, including the time parameter t1 (RFN). 2. After receiving the DL Node Synchronization control frame, the NodeB responds with a UL Node Synchronization control frame, including the time parameters t2 (BFN), t3 (BFN), and t1. 3. After receiving the UL Node Synchronization control frame, the RNC records the time t4 (RFN). Then, the RNC calculates (t2 - t1) + (t4 - t3) to obtain the round trip delay (RTD) between the RNC and the NodeB.
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In the downlink, the RNC needs to perform frame synchronization before sending data frames on the radio interface. With frame synchronization, a common data frame reference, that is, a Connection Frame Number (CFN), is provided between a transport channel on the UTRAN side and a transport channel on the UE side to identify the transmission sequence of a Transport Block Set (TBS). Each TBS has a CFN. The CFN at the transmission end must be the same as that at the reception end. This consistency is ensured through the mapping between the CFN and the System Frame Number (SFN) of the cell, considering that the CFN is not transmitted on the radio interface whereas the SFN is transmitted on the broadcast channel.
Table 5-2 Parameters involved in downlink TOA supervision Parameter TOAE TOAWS TOAWE Description Specifies the earliest time that the RNC can send a data frame to the NodeB. Specifies the start point of the optimum data receiving window, that is, the desired window. Specifies the end point of the desired window. If a data frame arrives before this point, the TOA is greater than zero. If a data frame arrives after this point, the TOA is smaller than zero.
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Description Specifies the time taken to process a data frame by the physical layer of the NodeB before transmission on the air interface. Specifies the latest time that the RNC can send a data frame to the NodeB.
Too early If a data frame sent by the RNC arrives at the NodeB before the TOAE, it indicates that the RNC sends the data frame too early, and thus the NodeB does not have a sufficient buffer area to receive this data frame.
Early If a data frame sent by the RNC arrives at the NodeB before the desired window, it indicates that the RNC sends the data frame earlier than expected.
OK If a data frame sent by the RNC arrives at the NodeB within the desired window, it indicates that the RNC sends the data frame at a proper time.
Late If a data frame sent by the RNC arrives at the NodeB after the desired window and before the LTOA, it indicates that the RNC sends the data frame later than expected.
Too late If a data frame sent by the RNC arrives at the NodeB after the LTOA, it indicates that the RNC sends the data frame too late and the NodeB does not have time for frame processing, such as channel coding and spreading. As a result, the data frame cannot be sent to the UE in time.
Using the TOA supervision function, the RNC adjusts the timing for transmitting a data frame to meet the requirement of the desired window established at the NodeB. If data frames sent by the RNC arrive at the NodeB outside the desired window, the NodeB prompts the RNC to advance or postpone the transmission of data frames.
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Table 5-3 Parameters involved in radio interface synchronization Parameter DOFF Description Specifies the default DPCH offset value, containing the frame offset and chip offset. When the first radio link is established for a UE, the frame offset and chip offset are defined for the radio link. Frame offset Specifies the mapping between the SFN and the CFN. The frame offset involved in radio interface synchronization refers to the frame offset of the DL DPCH relative to the P-CCPCH at both the NodeB and the UE. Chip offset Specifies the chip offset of the DL DPCH relative to the P-CCPCH.
The radio interface synchronization procedure is described as follows: 1. The UE sends an RRC CONNECTION REQUEST message to the RNC. 2. The RNC obtains the DOFF. If the RNC decides to allocate a radio link, the RNC also calculates the frame offset and chip offset. 3. The RNC sends the offset information to the NodeB through a RADIO LINK SETUP REQUEST message. 4. The NodeB calculates the downlink transmission time of the NodeB based on the offset information received.
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After the RNC receives the RADIO LINK SETUP RESPONSE message from the NodeB, the RNC completes Iub synchronization. Then, the NodeB starts downlink transmission. 5. The RNC sends the DOFF and the frame offset to the UE through an RRC CONNECTION SETUP message. 6. Based on the DOFF, the UE calculates the frame offset and chip offset, which are used for calculating the offset of the CFN relative to the SFN. Then, the UE performs downlink chip synchronization and frame synchronization based on the information received on the P-CCPCH. After the downlink synchronization is complete, the UE starts uplink transmission. 7. The NodeB performs uplink chip synchronization and frame synchronization. After the uplink synchronization is complete, the NodeB notifies the RNC of uplink synchronization completeness through a RADIO LINK SETUP RESTORE INDICATION message. After the radio link synchronization is complete, the radio link is available for use.
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6 Parameters
6 Parameters
Table 6-1 MBSC Parameter description Parameter ID REF2MCL KSW1 NE BSC6900 MML SET CLK(Optional) Description Meaning: Switch of panel BITS1(2M) GUI Value Range: OFF(OFF), ON(ON) Actual Value Range: OFF, ON Unit: None Default Value: OFF REF2MCL KSW2 BSC6900 SET CLK(Optional) Meaning: Switch of panel BITS2(2M) GUI Value Range: OFF(OFF), ON(ON) Actual Value Range: OFF, ON Unit: None Default Value: OFF BACK8KC LKSW1 BSC6900 SET CLK(Optional) Meaning: Switch of backplane LINE1 GUI Value Range: OFF(OFF), ON(ON) Actual Value Range: OFF, ON Unit: None Default Value: OFF BACK8KC LKSW2 BSC6900 SET CLK(Optional) Meaning: Switch of backplane LINE2 GUI Value Range: OFF(OFF), ON(ON) Actual Value Range: OFF, ON Unit: None Default Value: OFF SRCT BSC6900 ADD CLKSRC(Mandat ory) Meaning: Type of the clock source. GUI Value Range: BITS1-2MHZ(2MHZ Building Integrated Timing Supply system 1), BITS2-2MHZ(2MHZ Building Integrated Timing Supply system 2), BITS1-2MBPS(2MBPS Building Integrated Timing Supply system 1), BITS2-2MBPS(2MBPS Building Integrated Timing Supply system 2), 8KHZ(8KHZ), GPS(Globe Positioning System), LINE1_8KHZ(8KHZ line1), LINE2_8KHZ(8KHZ line2), BITS1-1.5MBPS(1.5MBPS Building Integrated Timing Supply system 1), BITS2-1.5MBPS(1.5MBPS Building Integrated Timing Supply system 2) Actual Value Range: BITS1-2MHZ, BITS2-2MHZ, BITS1-2MBPS, BITS2-2MBPS, GPS, 8KHZ,
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6 Parameters
Parameter ID
NE
MML
Description LINE1_8KHZ, LINE2_8KHZ, BITS1-1.5MBPS, BITS2-1.5MBPS Unit: None Default Value: None
MODE
BSC6900
Meaning: Working mode of the system clock. Working modes of the system clock are as follows: MANUAL: In this mode, you must specify a clock source and prevent the switching of the clock source. AUTO: In this mode, you do not need to specify a clock source and the system automatically selects the clock source with the highest priority. FREE: In this mode, the crystal oscillator of board is used. GUI Value Range: MANUAL(Manual Handover), AUTO(Auto Handover), FREE(Free-run) Actual Value Range: MANUAL, AUTO, FREE Unit: None Default Value: AUTO
CLKTYPE
BSC6900
Meaning: Type of the clock board GUI Value Range: GCUa, GCGa Actual Value Range: GCUa, GCGa Unit: None Default Value: GCUa Meaning: This parameter applies only to the Gb interface boards. When the clock sources of the SGSN and the MSC are different, set this parameter to Yes to enable the SGSN to use the clock source that is the same as the clock source of the MSC. GUI Value Range: NO(NO), YES(YES) Actual Value Range: NO, YES Unit: None Default Value: NO
REFUSEL OCALCLK
BSC6900
SET CLK(Optional)
Table 6-2 MBTS Parameter description Parameter ID ClkType NE BSC6900 MML SET Description Meaning: Clock mode of the BTS.
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6 Parameters
Parameter ID
NE
Description If this parameter is set to INT_CLK, the BTS does not track any external clock. The internal high precision clock works in free-run mode. If this parameter is set to TRCBSC_CLK, the BTS tracks the clock signals received from the BSC. If this parameter is set to EXCLK, the BTS tracks the clock signals received from the external input clock. If this parameter is set to IP_TIME, the BTS shakes hands through the IP network with the IP clock server for synchronization. If this parameter is set to IP_TRANSFER, the BTS extracts the clock from an E1 when there is not an IP clock after the BTS upgrades the transmission mode from E1 transmission to IP transmission. If this parameter is set to TRCGPS_CLK, the BTS extracts the clock through the DGPS from the GPS. If this parameter is set to UM_CLK, the BTS keeps pace with the signals broadcast on the downlink main BCCH of a neighboring BTS. If this parameter is set to PEER_CLK, the multimode BTS(GSM) keeps pace with the signals that the other mode offer. If this parameter is set to SYNETH_CLK, the multimode BTS(GSM) keeps pace with the SynEth Clock. GUI Value Range: INT_CLK(Internal Clock), TRCBSC_CLK(Trace BSC Clock), EXTSYN_CLK(External Sync clock), IP_TIME(IP Clock), IP_TRANSFER(Trace Transport Clock), TRCGPS_CLK(Trace GPS Clock), UM_CLK(Um Clock), PEER_CLK(Peer Clock), SYNETH_CLK(SynEth Clock) Actual Value Range: INT_CLK, TRCBSC_CLK, EXTSYN_CLK, IP_TIME, IP_TRANSFER, TRCGPS_CLK, UM_CLK, PEER_CLK, SYNETH_CLK Unit: None Default Value: None
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6 Parameters
Parameter ID CFGFLAG
NE BSC6900
Description Meaning: Whether to allow the configuration of board parameters. The value "YES" indicates that the configuration is allowed, and the value "NO" indicates that the configuration is not allowed. If the parameter is set to "YES", all the other parameters controlled by it are reset to the default values in this command. In multi-mode scenario, the value of this parameter in this mode must be the same as the value of the corresponding parameter in another mode. GUI Value Range: NO(NO), YES(YES) Actual Value Range: NO, YES Unit: None Default Value: None
GPSORGL ONASS
BSC6900
Meaning: Synchronization clock adopted when two satellite cards are used together. GPS:Trace GPS only. GLONASS:Trace GLONASS only. GPSGlonass:Trace GPS and GLONASS. GUI Value Range: GPS(GPS), GLONASS(Glonass), GPSGlonass(GPSGlonass) Actual Value Range: GPS, GLONASS, GPSGlonass Unit: None Default Value: GPS
ANTENNA LONG
BSC6900
Meaning: Length of the feeder cable. The GPS satellite card is connected to the antenna through feeder cables. The transmission delay on the feeder cable can be calculated on the basis of the length of the feeder cable, thus increasing the timing accuracy of the satellite card. GUI Value Range: 0~1000 Actual Value Range: 0~1000 Unit: m Default Value: 0
BSC6900
Meaning: Power supply switch of the GPS antenna feeder GUI Value Range: SENDPOWER(Send Power),
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6 Parameters
Parameter ID
NE
MML
Description NOPOWER(No Power) Actual Value Range: SENDPOWER, NOPOWER Unit: None Default Value: NOPOWER
CLKSRC
NodeB
Meaning: Clock Source Type GUI Value Range: GPSCARD(GPS card clock source), BITS(BITS clock source), LINE(LINE clock source), IPCLK(IP clock source), PTP(PTP clock source), USCUGPS(USCUGPS clock source), PEER(PEER clock source) Actual Value Range: GPSCARD, BITS, LINE, IPCLK, PTP, USCUGPS, PEER Unit: None Default Value: LINE
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7 Counters
7 Counters
There are no specific counters associated with this feature.
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8 Glossary
8 Glossary
For the acronyms, abbreviations, terms, and definitions, see the Glossary.
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9 Reference Documents
9 Reference Documents
[1]. IP Network Clock Feature Parameter Description [2]. Synchronization in UTRAN, 3GPP TS 25.402.
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