GSM

Global system for mobile communications

Global system for mobile communications (GSM) was developed as a second-generation (2G) mobile phone standard: unlike the first generation it uses digital as opposed to analogue data transmission.

The standard was developed in Europe over a number of years from 1982 to 1990 by CEPT and later ETSI. The work was completed by ETSI in collaboration with representatives from European industry and the network operators. The GSM standard was originally designed for voice telephony. However, in response to the increasing demand for new and faster data services, the standard was soon expanded to include new features such as HSCSD (high speed circuit switched data), GPRS (general packet radio service) and EDGE (enhanced data rates for global evolution), which all provide higher data rates and the basis for new, innovative data services. Even today, the GSM technology is being continuously developed and can now deliver data rates similar to those provided by third-generation mobile systems. GSM is used throughout the world in around 200 countries and more than 800 networks. The technical specifications are developed within 3GPP by TSG GERAN (GSM/EDGE Radio Access Network).

GSM-R

GSM R (GSM for railways) is a digital radiocommunications system developed specially for railways. The frequencies used for GSM R are harmonised throughout Europe. GSM R will in future provide all mobile voice and data services for railway communications. This is a key step in optimising railway operations and simplifying international rail traffic. Furthermore, harmonised and standardised communications contribute towards enhancing rail traffic safety. GSM R also meets the requirements of the new European Train Control System (ETCS), carrying track and signalling information directly to the train driver. This increases the efficiency of the rail system as a whole and simplifies international rail operations. The standardisation work on GSM R is carried out by a dedicated ETSI technical committee TC RT (Technical Committee Railways Telecommunications).

Mobile communication services on board vessels

The European Union created the technical and regulatory framework for the operation of mobile communication services on board ships with the Commission Decision of 19 March 2010 on harmonised conditions of use of radio spectrum for mobile communication services on board vessels (MCV services) in the European Union (2010/166/EU). The purpose of this Decision is to harmonise the technical conditions for the availability and efficient use of the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands for systems providing MCV services within territorial seas in the European Union. A further aim is to avoid harmful interference from MCV services to land-based electronic mobile communication services. Article 2 of the Decision makes it clear that the Decision relates to public communication networks using a GSM system without establishing direct connections with land-based mobile networks.

Mobile communication services on aircraft

The European Union created the technical and regulatory framework for the operation of mobile communication services on aircraft (MCA services) with the Commission Decision of 7 April 2008 on harmonised conditions of spectrum use for the operation of mobile communication services on aircraft (MCA services) in the Community (2008/294/EC). The purpose of this Decision is to harmonise the technical conditions for the availability and efficient use of radio spectrum for MCA services in the Community. Commercial operation of MCA services is currently considered only for GSM systems operating in the 1710-1785 MHz band for uplink (terminal transmit and base station receive) and the 1805-1880 MHz band for downlink (base station transmit and terminal receive), in accordance with ETSI standards EN 301 502 and EN 301 511. However, in the future it may be extended to other terrestrial public mobile communication systems, operating in accordance with other standards and in other frequency bands.