PRIMARY CELL SWITCHING IN CARRIER AGGREGATION

The disclosed technology is directed towards switching the primary cell in a carrier aggregation scenario to improve performance. Measurement data of a mobile device (user equipment) is evaluated with respect to one or more various criteria such as cell carrier bandwidth, cell carrier load, cell-related capability and other carrier data (e.g., dynamic spectrum sharing versus clean, time division duplex or frequency division duplex), and others. Device conditions such as overheating can be considered as well. The evaluation results in a ranking of primary cell candidates. If a more optimal primary cell (candidate) is available, the primary cell in the carrier aggregation combination is switched to the candidate that is ranked the highest. Switching can be relatively very fast, such as based on already existing layer-1 (L1) and/or layer-2 (L2) measurement data. Layer-3 (L3) measurement data also can be obtained on demand, for example, to use in the evaluation.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The subject application relates to mobile communications devices in general, and more particularly to the selection of a primary cell for mobile device communications, and related embodiments.

BACKGROUND

User equipment can be configured for new radio (NR, e.g., fifth generation or 5G) carrier aggregation, including with mixed frequency division duplex and time division duplex (TDD) carriers. A frequency division duplex (FDD) carrier can be a clean NR carrier or a dynamic spectrum sharing (DSS, shared with LTE) NR carrier.

Selection of the primary cell (PCell) in carrier aggregation can impact the overall carrier aggregation performance. Selecting one PCell can result in lower user throughput and/or longer latency, either or both of which can degrade a user experience relative to selection of a different PCell.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The technology described herein is generally directed towards improving new radio (including 5G) carrier aggregation performance by selecting a more optimal primary cell (PCell) for a user equipment device, including with mixes of frequency division duplex (FDD) and time division duplex (TDD) carriers. To select and switch to a more optimal PCell, ideally the most optimal of those available among candidate PCells, various criteria of candidate criteria can be considered, including, but not limited to the bandwidth of a candidate carrier, (noting that typically TDD has more bandwidth). Typically the carrier with larger bandwidth is selected as the PCell.

Other non-limiting criteria can include whether a carrier is a dynamic spectrum sharing (DSS) carrier being shared with LTE or is a clean (non-DSS) carrier, the current load on a carrier, whether the carrier is (user equipment and radio) TDD with sounding reference signal (SRS) switching support, massive multiple-input, multiple output (mMIMO) antenna availability, transport-related data, the user equipment's uplink and/or downlink application (data needs), whether the user equipment may be in an overheating condition, and the current RF conditions measured for that carrier. Any or all of the criteria may be considered individually or in any combination(s)/permutation(s), including with respect to some non-limiting examples described herein.

Furthermore, the terms “user equipment,” “device,” “communication device,” “mobile device,” “subscriber,” “customer entity,” “consumer,” “customer entity,” “entity” and the like may be employed interchangeably throughout, unless context warrants particular distinctions among the terms. It should be appreciated that such terms can refer to human entities or automated components supported through artificial intelligence (e.g., a capacity to make inference based on complex mathematical formalisms), which can provide simulated vision, sound recognition and so forth.

FIG.1shows a general communications system100in which user equipment102also referred to herein as a mobile device or user equipment device or UE) sends measurement reports104to a network node at different times, t1and t2. This is represented inFIG.1by UE102(t1), UE102(t2), and measurement reports104(t1),104(t2), referring to times t1and t2, respectively.

In general network operators use a mix of 5G FDD and 5G TDD spectrum for 5G standalone downlink carrier aggregation and non-standalone ENDC (E-UTRAN New Radio—Dual Connectivity) with carrier aggregation. A typical scenario is to use 5G TDD FR1 carrier bandwidth (40-100 MHz) and FR2 (100 MHz minimum) carrier bandwidth; this is much larger than 5G FDD FRI FDD (5-20 MHz).

A throughput performance issue has been observed in practice when using FDD (smaller bandwidth) as the PCell and TDD (larger bandwidth) as SCell; indeed, approximately over a 30 percent impact has been noted (with a 10-15 percent impact resulting from the SCell limitation on the TDD sounding reference signal switching feature). For example, the use of reciprocity-based beamforming in good to medium channel conditions can provide better downlink throughput and capacity compared to codebook-based transmission for UEs that support SRS. The SRS transmitted by the UE is the basis for channel estimation that can be used to determine the beamforming weights of downlink transmission. Further, a coverage performance issue has been observed in practice when using TDD as PCell and FDD as SCell, as a TDD carrier is uplink limited compared to an FDD carrier.

The channel state information feedback (CSF) measurement reports include data for the PCell (e.g., carrier ID 0) and SCells (carrier IDs 1 and 2) in the carrier aggregation combination. Each CSF report includes rank indicator (RI) data, precoding matrix indicator (PMI) data, and channel quality indicator (CQI) data. There can be layer-1 (L1, physical layer) reports, layer-2 (L2, medium access control (MAC), radio link control (RLC), packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer) reports, and layer-3 (L3, radio resource control (RRC) layer) reports. Via these measurement reports, the network obtains feedback data such as CQI data, RI data, MAC data, radio link control block error rate (RCL BLER) feedback data, power headroom report (PHR) data, close loop power control information, uplink signal-to-noise (SNR) estimates, and so on. Such measurement reporting can be aperiodic and/or periodic.

For purposes of this example, consider that the mobile device102is moving or otherwise experiencing different radio and other e.g., carrier load) conditions at time t1with respect to its configured carrier aggregation cells106(t1). The state of the cells106(t1), at and after time (t1) until changed, is represented inFIG.1by the secondary cell (SCell)108, the primary cell (PCell, also indicated by the darkened dot within)110and the secondary cell112, relative to the state of the carrier aggregation cells as represented at106(t2).

As can be seen in this example, the technology described herein in the network114includes selection logic116, which, based on one or more candidate criteria118(examples are described herein), switches the primary cell to the cell carrier108from the cell carrier110. This is depicted inFIG.1by the arrow between the selection logic116and the cell group106(t2) to emphasize switching of the primary cell to the cell carrier108as described herein. The state of the primary and secondary cell arrangement106(t2), at and after time (t2) until changed, is represented inFIG.1by the primary cell (PCell, also indicated by the darkened dot within) having been switched to the cell108, the secondary cell110(switched from having been the primary cell at t1), and the secondary cell112.

In general and as described herein, the technology in the selection logic116includes logic/intelligence (e.g., in the gNB) to select and move the UE to a more optimal PCell and use the best carrier aggregation combination configuration to obtain performance improvement. Among many examples described herein, this can be based on RF conditions, throughput performance potential, coverage extension potential and/or load and capacity condition data. The technology facilitates doing mobility between different carriers based on previously configured carrier aggregation combination, within the same site. The technology provides for a fast mobility decision within the same site with same carrier aggregation combination based on L2 measurement, instead of relying on explicit L3 based UE measurement reporting. Notwithstanding, as described herein, if an L2 measurement is not available, additional/ad hoc L3 measurement can be triggered by the network to the UE before a handover.

FIG.2is a flow diagram representing example operations of the selection logic116ofFIG.1, based on various example criteria118. Operation202represents the UE initial session setup or other incoming mobility data (e.g., obtained following handover) by which carrier aggregation is configured. Operation204represents the carrier aggregation combination, such as based on the legacy method. As described herein, there may be a more optimal carrier aggregation combination configuration, which will be determined via operation206following candidate PCell ranking (FIG.3).

It is emphasized that there are any number of ways to rank candidate PCells, andFIG.3is but one non-limiting possible example of such ranking for purposes of explanation. Indeed, the order of operations can be varied, one or more of the example criteria can be added or omitted, and other criteria not described may be used. Further, a scoring system that accumulates (adds or subtracts weighted points or the like) for each PCell candidate based on each (e.g., weighted) criterion may be implemented in a straightforward way, and can be adjusted/learned/improved over time. The term “ranking” as used herein can be by preference ordering/reordering, by scoring, or by any other system that ultimately favors one PCell candidate over one or more others. Note that the current PCell can be a candidate PCell, e.g., with a rank order or score, as it is possible this is the most optimal PCell candidate of those available.

In any event, in this example operation302represents ranking the preferences among available PCell candidate carriers based on effective bandwidth, which in this example takes DSS versus clean carrier state into consideration. For example, carrier aggregation UE performance can be adversely impacted if the PCell carrier has less bandwidth than that of another carrier available to be a PCell; e.g., a 5 MHz FDD carrier may be being used as the PCell while there is another TDD carrier with 40 MHz available. Thus, the PCell can be moved to the carrier with larger bandwidth, in this case after considering DSS, which if present, can reduce the effective bandwidth.

By way of example, a comparison among clean carriers (or DSS carriers) can be ranked so that the carrier with the most bandwidth is preferred. Note that equal bandwidth carriers results in a tie, move to step2. What is considered “equal” can be within a threshold value, e.g., two carriers close in bandwidth may be considered a tie, with a further tiebreaker applied to select one over the other. Further, a carrier aggregation combination with more maximum aggregated bandwidth can be selected. As set forth herein, DSS carriers (or not) are considered as a factor. For example, when comparing a DSS carrier to a clean carrier, unless the DSS carrier has x percent more bandwidth (where x can be learned, performance measured, etc.) than the clean carrier, (e.g. 20 MHz DSS versus 5 Mhz clean), the DSS carrier will have less preference.

Operation304represents ranking equal (or sufficiently close) bandwidth PCells based on their respective load conditions. This can change the ranking that was determined at step302. Based on the prior ranking, operation304checks the loading difference for ties (equal or deemed sufficiently) close in bandwidth. If the currently preferred carrier loading exceeds some certain threshold (is y percent more loaded than the next preferred carrier), then the ordering is switch. Otherwise the same ordering is kept, continuation to operation306in this example.

Operation306represents potentially readjusting the candidate rankings based on backhaul link limitation data. For the current ranking following step304, if everything is still tied (equal or sufficiently close) for the top two or more candidates, if one of the candidate has less backhaul speed (e.g. 1 Gbps), the candidate with the higher transport speed is moved ahead of it in the rankings. For example, a PCell may be using a carrier with a suboptimal transport link, such as only 1 Gpbs, whereby switching to another carrier available for the PCell with a better transport link (e.g. 10 Gbps) may be more beneficial in terms of performance.

Operation308represents potentially readjusting the candidate rankings based on the TDD versus FDD and current RF conditions as most recently measured and reported. Based on the ranking from the prior operations, if everything is considered still tied, or a TDD carrier has more bandwidth, and the RF condition is adequate for TDD, remain with TDD as the leading pCell candidate, otherwise the ranking can be readjusted. For example, a carrier with better RF conditions can be selected over another carrier. The uplink signal strength of the carrier can be considered; the gNB has the direct information on the uplink signal strength and quality, and can thus select an uplink carrier that has sufficiently good signal quality.

Further, if the UE is overheated (operation310), it is desirable to change to use a smaller bandwidth FDD as the PCell, or remove all SCells, which is generally represented via operation312, for example. For example, a device may be in overheating situation and needs to remove a TDD carrier from carrier aggregation; (the TDD carrier can be either a PCell or an SCell).

Thus, in this example the effective bandwidth considers the DSS offset. Note that the order of the operations to finalize each PCell candidate ranking can change based on RAN vendor implementation;FIG.3is only one example. Further, although not explicitly shown inFIG.3, the order of the operations to finalize each PCell candidate ranking can be dynamically changed based on the UE's application, a change of the cell loading, a change of the RF conditions, and so forth. As such, the PCell evaluation is conducted periodically and/or on demand/aperiodically, as the device may be moving, loading can be changing, RF conditions can change, and so forth. The PCell may be changing during each evaluation considering any or all of the aforementioned factors, as well as others.

By way of other examples, the advanced technology availability (e.g. MIMO) for a candidate carrier (e.g. mMIMO with beamforming is typically available at TDD carrier and not available at FDD carrier) can result in selecting the carrier supporting advanced technology.

Thus, the technology favors not using a heavily loaded carrier as the PCell when another carrier with similar bandwidth, but less loading, is available, using a similar bandwidth/transport and loading carrier with better RF conditions as the PCell instead of an otherwise similar carrier with lesser RF conditions, and/or not continuing to use a carrier having a limited number of carrier aggregation combination (e.g. total aggregated bandwidth) when another carrier is available. A DSS carrier shared between LTE and NR as the PCell may not perform as well as another NR clean carrier with similar bandwidth that is available as a PCell. A TDD carrier with a similar amount of bandwidth that supports mMIMO can be selected as the PCell over an FDD carrier that does not support mMIMO, resulting in improved performance.

Selection according to any of these example PCell selection scenarios or a combination of the scenarios (as well as others) can cause more optimal carrier aggregation performance. Indeed, there are scenarios in which where multiple factors are considered in an evaluation at the same time, with the optimal PCell chosen based on the combination of those multiple factors. Notwithstanding, the bandwidth and loading are likely the more significant criteria.

Returning toFIG.2, operation206represents evaluating whether the UE is on the “best” PCell, that is, the carrier aggregation combination is more optimal than any other as described herein. The preference ordering (or a scoring system) can be accessed to determine if the current PCell is the highest ranked, or needs to be changed for likely more optimal performance. If already the “best” PCell, operation206branches to operation216to await the next evaluation (unless the session ends first, as evaluated at operation218). Note that whether the current PCell is considered already “best” can be based on being sufficiently close, such as avoiding the overhead of switching (and possibly avoiding an L3 measurement as described with reference to operation212) for what will only be a very small likely performance improvement.

If a more optimal (e.g., higher ranked) PCell candidate is available, operation206branches to operation208, which represents evaluating whether a target layer-2 (L2) measurement (e.g., including channel state data) is already available (e.g., from the usual UE measurements/reports; L1 measurements are already required to be returned frequently). Often there is an L2 measurement available, whereby relatively highly fast switching to the higher ranked PCell candidate is performed, without needing another measurement) resulting in moving the best available PCell candidate to become the current PCell in the carrier aggregation combination configuration. After this, operation216represents awaiting the next evaluation (unless the session ends first, as evaluated at operation218).

If no L2 measurement is available, operation212represents triggering an ad hoc layer-3 (L3) UE measurement. Based on the L3 UE measurement, operation214represents moving the UE to the best PCell based on UE's L3 measurement report. Thereafter, operation216represents continuing the evaluation on an aperiodic and/or periodic basis; an aperiodic evaluation interval time can be based on the speed at which the UE is moving (if at all), for example, if the load of the PCell carrier changes significantly, and/or if the UE data needs are changing. Note that operation218evaluates whether the session ends during the timeframe between evaluations (as represented by the generally circular “wait” arrow; if so, in this example no further evaluation is performed until a next session begins.

FIG.4shows an example of more optimal PCell selection from a mobile deice among a mix FDD and TDD NR carriers C1-C4 (labeled441-444, respectively), including how the PCell may be changed after evaluations considering the aforementioned factors/criterion, e.g., as the device may be moving, loading may be changing, etc. Note that moving UE from one PCell to another PCell triggers inter-frequency measurements for RSRP, RSRQ, SINR; after UE sends a measurement report, the gNB can trigger mobility based on events, e.g., event A2 (serving worse than threshold), event A3 (neighbor becomes offset better), event A5 (SpCell becomes worse than threshold1and neighbor becomes better than threshold2). Note that frequent inter-frequency measurement impacts UE battery life, retainability and throughput performance. There is also a longer cycle of time to trigger and signaling processing time, more signaling messages. Further note that moving a PCell within the same carrier aggregation combination can take use of the L1 report. L2 UE feedback data can be obtained on an aperiodic and/or periodic basis. RI, PMI and CQI are included in the CSF reports, configured aperiodic and/or periodic, with relatively high frequently (20 ms) and accuracy.

In the example ofFIG.4, in a first state represented by block446, a mobile device/UE is located near the center of a cell. As a result, based on the measurements, carrier C2 (442) is selected as the PCell for more optimal throughput.

In a second state represented by block447, the mobile device (possibly still located near the center of the cell), the carrier C2 is experiencing heavy loading (e.g., over some threshold load value/percentage z), and the mobile device is running (based on data usage, buffer thresholds, etc.) an uplink intense application. As a result, carrier C1 (441) is selected and moved to become the PCell for the mobile device, based on a lighter load on the carrier C1 (441). Note that even though in this example the bandwidth of carrier C2 (442) of 80 MHz is greater than the bandwidth of carrier C1 (441) of 40 MHz, the combination of heavy PCell carrier loading plus the UE uplink data needs results in the carrier C1 (441) becoming the pCell. As described herein, there are many ways that the criteria can be evaluated to result in a different PCell being selected for switching thereto.

In a third state represented by block448, the mobile device/UE is located near the cell edge. As a result, based on updated measurements, carrier C4 (444) is selected as the PCell for better coverage.

One or more aspects, such as those implemented in example operations of network equipment comprising a processor and a memory that stores executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, facilitate performance of operations and/or components, or, for example, operations of a method, are shown inFIG.5in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure. Operation502represents ranking a group of primary cell candidates based on a primary cell candidate carrier criterion to determine a highest-ranked primary cell candidate for a mobile device. Operation504represents determining whether the highest ranked primary cell candidate of the group is more optimal with respect to existing carrier aggregation performance of an existing primary cell of the mobile device. Operation506represents, in response to determining that the highest ranked primary cell candidate is more optimal with respect to the existing carrier aggregation performance, selecting the highest ranked primary cell candidate as a selected primary cell, and switching the primary cell of the mobile device from the existing primary cell to the selected primary cell.

Ranking the group of primary cell candidates with respect to the candidate carrier criterion can include ranking based on respective cell carrier bandwidth data of respective primary cell candidates.

Ranking the group of primary cell candidates with respect to the candidate carrier criterion can include ranking based on at least one of: respective cell carrier bandwidth data, respective cell carrier load data, respective cell carrier transport link data, total aggregated bandwidth data, or respective cell carrier radio frequency condition data.

Ranking the group of primary cell candidates with respect to the candidate carrier criterion can include ranking based on whether the respective primary cell candidates are configured for dynamic spectrum sharing.

Ranking the group of primary cell candidates with respect to the candidate carrier criterion can include ranking respective primary cell candidates based on respective backhaul link limitation data.

Ranking the group of primary cell candidates with respect to the candidate carrier criterion can include ranking respective primary cell candidates based on mobile device condition data with respect to the respective primary cell candidates.

Ranking of the group of primary cell candidates with respect to the candidate carrier criterion can include ranking based on mobile device uplink data.

Ranking the group of primary cell candidates with respect to the candidate carrier criterion can include ranking based on at least one of: mobile device uplink signal strength data or uplink signal strength quality data.

Ranking the group of primary cell candidates with respect to the candidate carrier criterion can include ranking based on mobile device downlink data.

Determining whether the highest ranked primary cell candidate of the group is more optimal with respect to the existing carrier aggregation performance can include evaluating layer-2 measurement data.

Determining whether the highest ranked primary cell candidate of the group is more optimal with respect to the existing carrier aggregation performance can include evaluating layer-3 measurement data. Determining whether the highest ranked primary cell candidate of the group is more optimal with respect to the existing carrier aggregation performance can include triggering a layer-3 measurement by the mobile device to obtain the layer-3 measurement data.

Switching the primary cell carrier of the mobile device from the existing primary cell carrier to the selected primary cell carrier can occur within a same site.

One or more example aspects are represented inFIG.6, and can correspond to a method, for example, or a user equipment device comprising a processor and a memory that stores executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, facilitate performance of operations and/or components. Example operations can include operation602, which represents obtaining, by network equipment comprising a processor, measurement data reported by a mobile device configured for carrier aggregation via a first primary cell and a secondary cell. Operation604represents determining, by the network equipment based on evaluating the measurement data and based on evaluating candidate primary cell carrier data, whether moving the first primary cell to a second primary cell is likely to result in more optimal performance of the mobile device. Operation606represents, in response to determining that moving the first primary cell to a different primary cell is likely to result in more optimal performance of the mobile device, moving, by the network equipment, the first primary cell to the second primary cell.

Evaluating the candidate primary cell carrier data can include evaluating least one of: carrier bandwidth data, carrier dynamic spectrum sharing data, carrier loading data, carrier backhaul link data, or multiple-input multiple-output antenna data.

Evaluating of the candidate primary cell carrier data can include evaluating, at least one of: mobile device condition data, or mobile device communications data.

Obtaining the measurement data can include triggering, by the by the network equipment, a measurement report from the mobile device.

One or more aspects, such as implemented in a machine-readable storage medium, comprising executable instructions that, when executed by a processor of network equipment, facilitate performance of operations, are represented inFIG.7. Example operations comprise operation702, which represents determining, based on evaluating mobile measurement data of a mobile device operating with a first primary cell for carrier aggregation, that switching the first primary cell to a second primary cell is likely to result in more optimal performance of the mobile device. Example operation704represents switching, by the network equipment, the first primary cell to the second primary cell.

The second primary cell can be part of a group of candidate primary cells, and further operations can include selecting the second primary cell from the group based on a ranking of the group of candidate primary cells according to at least one candidate carrier criterion.

Ranking of the group of candidate primary cells according to the at least one candidate carrier criterion can include ranking the group of candidate primary cells by respective carrier bandwidth data of the respective candidate primary cells.

As can be seen, the technology described herein for PCell selection facilitates improved throughput performance at cell center, improved coverage at the cell edge improved uplink throughput based on cell loading and capacity, and, in general, an improved the perceived user experience. Benefits for handling mobility, include, but are not limited to, reducing the number of layer-3 radio resource control signaling operations during mobility, and reducing the impact of inter-frequency gap measurements. This in part is based on more accurate measurement data for both uplink and downlink, via PCell and SCell using layer-1 (PHY) and layer-2 (MAC) measurements, providing an overall evaluation of the source and target cells, before triggering mobility, to avoid ping-pong conditions. The technology described herein can consider the UE power level, heat mitigation, application and/or gNB load conditions, the FDD carrier deployment status (clean carrier vs. DSS), the advanced technology available (or) at the carrier, the RF condition, and transport link data.

FIG.8presents an example embodiment800of a mobile network platform810that can implement and exploit one or more aspects of the disclosed subject matter described herein. Generally, wireless network platform810can include components, e.g., nodes, gateways, interfaces, servers, or disparate platforms, that facilitate both packet-switched (PS) (e.g., internet protocol (IP), frame relay, asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) and circuit-switched (CS) traffic (e.g., voice and data), as well as control generation for networked wireless telecommunication. As a non-limiting example, wireless network platform810can be included in telecommunications carrier networks, and can be considered carrier-side components as discussed elsewhere herein. Mobile network platform810includes CS gateway node(s)812which can interface CS traffic received from legacy networks like telephony network(s)840(e.g., public switched telephone network (PSTN), or public land mobile network (PLMN)) or a signaling system #7 (SS7) network860. Circuit switched gateway node(s)812can authorize and authenticate traffic (e.g., voice) arising from such networks. Additionally, CS gateway node(s)812can access mobility, or roaming, data generated through SS7 network860; for instance, mobility data stored in a visited location register (VLR), which can reside in memory830. Moreover, CS gateway node(s)812interfaces CS-based traffic and signaling and PS gateway node(s)818. As an example, in a 3GPP UMTS network, CS gateway node(s)812can be realized at least in part in gateway GPRS support node(s) (GGSN). It should be appreciated that functionality and specific operation of CS gateway node(s)812, PS gateway node(s)818, and serving node(s)816, is provided and dictated by radio technology(ies) utilized by mobile network platform810for telecommunication. Mobile network platform810can also include the MMEs, HSS/PCRFs, SGWs, and PGWs disclosed herein.

In addition to receiving and processing CS-switched traffic and signaling, PS gateway node(s)818can authorize and authenticate PS-based data sessions with served mobile devices. Data sessions can include traffic, or content(s), exchanged with networks external to the wireless network platform810, like wide area network(s) (WANs)850, enterprise network(s)870, and service network(s)880, which can be embodied in local area network(s) (LANs), can also be interfaced with mobile network platform810through PS gateway node(s)818. It is to be noted that WANs850and enterprise network(s)870can embody, at least in part, a service network(s) like IP multimedia subsystem (IMS). Based on radio technology layer(s) available in technology resource(s)817, packet-switched gateway node(s)818can generate packet data protocol contexts when a data session is established; other data structures that facilitate routing of packetized data also can be generated. To that end, in an aspect, PS gateway node(s)818can include a tunnel interface (e.g., tunnel termination gateway (TTG) in 3GPP UMTS network(s) (not shown)) which can facilitate packetized communication with disparate wireless network(s), such as Wi-Fi networks.

In embodiment800, wireless network platform810also includes serving node(s)816that, based upon available radio technology layer(s) within technology resource(s)817, convey the various packetized flows of data streams received through PS gateway node(s)818. It is to be noted that for technology resource(s)817that rely primarily on CS communication, server node(s) can deliver traffic without reliance on PS gateway node(s)818; for example, server node(s) can embody at least in part a mobile switching center. As an example, in a 3GPP UMTS network, serving node(s)816can be embodied in serving GPRS support node(s) (SGSN).

For radio technologies that exploit packetized communication, server(s)814in wireless network platform810can execute numerous applications that can generate multiple disparate packetized data streams or flows, and manage (e.g., schedule, queue, format . . . ) such flows. Such application(s) can include add-on features to standard services (for example, provisioning, billing, customer support . . . ) provided by wireless network platform810. Data streams (e.g., content(s) that are part of a voice call or data session) can be conveyed to PS gateway node(s)818for authorization/authentication and initiation of a data session, and to serving node(s)816for communication thereafter. In addition to application server, server(s)814can include utility server(s), a utility server can include a provisioning server, an operations and maintenance server, a security server that can implement at least in part a certificate authority and firewalls as well as other security mechanisms, and the like. In an aspect, security server(s) secure communication served through wireless network platform810to ensure network's operation and data integrity in addition to authorization and authentication procedures that CS gateway node(s)812and PS gateway node(s)818can enact. Moreover, provisioning server(s) can provision services from external network(s) like networks operated by a disparate service provider; for instance, WAN850or Global Positioning System (GPS) network(s) (not shown). Provisioning server(s) can also provision coverage through networks associated to wireless network platform810(e.g., deployed and operated by the same service provider), such as femto-cell network(s) (not shown) that enhance wireless service coverage within indoor confined spaces and offload RAN resources in order to enhance subscriber service experience within a home or business environment by way of UE875.

It is to be noted that server(s)814can include one or more processors configured to confer at least in part the functionality of macro network platform810. To that end, the one or more processor can execute code instructions stored in memory830, for example. It is should be appreciated that server(s)814can include a content manager815, which operates in substantially the same manner as described hereinbefore.

In example embodiment800, memory830can store information related to operation of wireless network platform810. Other operational information can include provisioning information of mobile devices served through wireless platform network810, subscriber databases; application intelligence, pricing schemes, e.g., promotional rates, flat-rate programs, couponing campaigns; technical specification(s) consistent with telecommunication protocols for operation of disparate radio, or wireless, technology layers; and so forth. Memory830can also store information from at least one of telephony network(s)840, WAN850, enterprise network(s)870, or SS7 network860. In an aspect, memory830can be, for example, accessed as part of a data store component or as a remotely connected memory store.

Referring now toFIG.9, illustrated is a schematic block diagram of an example end-user device such as a user equipment) that can be a mobile device900capable of connecting to a network in accordance with some embodiments described herein. Although a mobile handset900is illustrated herein, it will be understood that other devices can be a mobile device, and that the mobile handset900is merely illustrated to provide context for the embodiments of the various embodiments described herein. The following discussion is intended to provide a brief, general description of an example of a suitable environment900in which the various embodiments can be implemented. While the description includes a general context of computer-executable instructions embodied on a machine-readable storage medium, those skilled in the art will recognize that the various embodiments also can be implemented in combination with other program modules and/or as a combination of hardware and software.

The handset900includes a processor902for controlling and processing all onboard operations and functions. A memory904interfaces to the processor902for storage of data and one or more applications906(e.g., a video player software, user feedback component software, etc.). Other applications can include voice recognition of predetermined voice commands that facilitate initiation of the user feedback signals. The applications906can be stored in the memory904and/or in a firmware908, and executed by the processor902from either or both the memory904or/and the firmware908. The firmware908can also store startup code for execution in initializing the handset900. A communications component910interfaces to the processor902to facilitate wired/wireless communication with external systems, e.g., cellular networks, VoIP networks, and so on. Here, the communications component910can also include a suitable cellular transceiver911(e.g., a GSM transceiver) and/or an unlicensed transceiver913(e.g., Wi-Fi, WiMax) for corresponding signal communications. The handset900can be a device such as a cellular telephone, a PDA with mobile communications capabilities, and messaging-centric devices. The communications component910also facilitates communications reception from terrestrial radio networks (e.g., broadcast), digital satellite radio networks, and Internet-based radio services networks.

The handset900includes a display912for displaying text, images, video, telephony functions (e.g., a Caller ID function), setup functions, and for user input. For example, the display912can also be referred to as a “screen” that can accommodate the presentation of multimedia content (e.g., music metadata, messages, wallpaper, graphics, etc.). The display912can also display videos and can facilitate the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. A serial I/O interface914is provided in communication with the processor902to facilitate wired and/or wireless serial communications (e.g., USB, and/or IEEE 1394) through a hardwire connection, and other serial input devices (e.g., a keyboard, keypad, and mouse). This supports updating and troubleshooting the handset900, for example. Audio capabilities are provided with an audio I/O component916, which can include a speaker for the output of audio signals related to, for example, indication that the user pressed the proper key or key combination to initiate the user feedback signal. The audio I/O component916also facilitates the input of audio signals through a microphone to record data and/or telephony voice data, and for inputting voice signals for telephone conversations.

The handset900can include a slot interface918for accommodating a SIC (Subscriber Identity Component) in the form factor of a card Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) or universal SIM920, and interfacing the SIM card920with the processor902. However, it is to be appreciated that the SIM card920can be manufactured into the handset900, and updated by downloading data and software.

A video processing component922(e.g., a camera) can be provided for decoding encoded multimedia content. The video processing component922can aid in facilitating the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. The handset900also includes a power source924in the form of batteries and/or an AC power subsystem, which power source924can interface to an external power system or charging equipment (not shown) by a power I/O component926.

The handset900can also include a video component930for processing video content received and, for recording and transmitting video content. For example, the video component930can facilitate the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. A location tracking component932facilitates geographically locating the handset900. As described hereinabove, this can occur when the user initiates the feedback signal automatically or manually. A user input component934facilitates the user initiating the quality feedback signal. The user input component934can also facilitate the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. The user input component934can include such conventional input device technologies such as a keypad, keyboard, mouse, stylus pen, and/or touch screen, for example.

Referring again to the applications906, a hysteresis component936facilitates the analysis and processing of hysteresis data, which is utilized to determine when to associate with the access point. A software trigger component938can be provided that facilitates triggering of the hysteresis component938when the Wi-Fi transceiver913detects the beacon of the access point. A SIP client940enables the handset900to support SIP protocols and register the subscriber with the SIP registrar server. The applications906can also include a client942that provides at least the capability of discovery, play and store of multimedia content, for example, music.

The handset900, as indicated above related to the communications component810, includes an indoor network radio transceiver913(e.g., Wi-Fi transceiver). This function supports the indoor radio link, such as IEEE 802.11, for the dual-mode GSM handset900. The handset900can accommodate at least satellite radio services through a handset that can combine wireless voice and digital radio chipsets into a single handheld device.

Referring now toFIG.10, there is illustrated a block diagram of a computer1000operable to execute the functions and operations performed in the described example embodiments. For example, a network node (e.g., network device104) may contain components as described inFIG.10. The computer1000can provide networking and communication capabilities between a wired or wireless communication network and a server and/or communication device. In order to provide additional context for various aspects thereof,FIG.1and the following discussion are intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitable computing environment in which the various aspects of the embodiments can be implemented to facilitate the establishment of a transaction between an entity and a third party. While the description above is in the general context of computer-executable instructions that can run on one or more computers, those skilled in the art will recognize that the various embodiments also can be implemented in combination with other program modules and/or as a combination of hardware and software.

With reference toFIG.10, implementing various aspects described herein with regards to the end-user device can include a computer1000, the computer1000including a processing unit1004, a system memory1006and a system bus1008. The system bus1008couples system components including, but not limited to, the system memory1006to the processing unit1004. The processing unit1004can be any of various commercially available processors. Dual microprocessors and other multi-processor architectures can also be employed as the processing unit1004.

A monitor1044or other type of display device is also connected to the system bus1008through an interface, such as a video adapter1046. In addition to the monitor1044, a computer1000typically includes other peripheral output devices (not shown), such as speakers, printers, etc.

When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer1000is connected to the local network1052through a wired and/or wireless communication network interface or adapter1056. The adapter1056may facilitate wired or wireless communication to the LAN1052, which may also include a wireless access point disposed thereon for communicating with the wireless adapter1056.

When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer1000can include a modem1058, or is connected to a communications server on the WAN1054, or has other means for establishing communications over the WAN1054, such as by way of the Internet. The modem1058, which can be internal or external and a wired or wireless device, is connected to the system bus1008through the input device interface1042. In a networked environment, program modules depicted relative to the computer, or portions thereof, can be stored in the remote memory/storage device1050. It will be appreciated that the network connections shown are exemplary and other means of establishing a communications link between the computers can be used.

Computer-readable storage media can include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, solid state drive (SSD) or other solid-state storage technology, compact disk read only memory (CD ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD), Blu-ray disc or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices or other tangible and/or non-transitory media which can be used to store desired information.

In this regard, the terms “tangible” or “non-transitory” herein as applied to storage, memory or computer-readable media, are to be understood to exclude only propagating transitory signals per se as modifiers and do not relinquish rights to all standard storage, memory or computer-readable media that are not only propagating transitory signals per se. Computer-readable storage media can be accessed by one or more local or remote computing devices, e.g., via access requests, queries or other data retrieval protocols, for a variety of operations with respect to the information stored by the medium.

The above descriptions of various embodiments of the subject disclosure and corresponding figures and what is described in the Abstract, are described herein for illustrative purposes, and are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosed embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It is to be understood that one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that other embodiments having modifications, permutations, combinations, and additions can be implemented for performing the same, similar, alternative, or substitute functions of the disclosed subject matter, and are therefore considered within the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the disclosed subject matter should not be limited to any single embodiment described herein, but rather should be construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the claims below.