LTE, LTE-Advanced and WiMAX: Towards IMT-Advanced Networks

Network Entry in IEEE 802.16-2009

The IEEE 802.16 standard distinguishes ten procedures in network initialization and entry. Of these ten procedures, shown in Figure 5.1, four procedures are implementation dependent and were hence identified as optional. These ten are (optional procedures are marked with an asterisk (*)):

1. Scanning and synchronization;
2. Obtaining downlink parameters;
3. Initial ranging and automatic adjustments;
4. Negotiating basic capabilities;
5. Authorizing SS and performing key exchange*;
6. Registering with BS;
7. Establishing IP connectivity*;
8. Establishing time of the day*;
9. Transferring operational parameters*;
10. Establish provisioned connections.

Upon initialization or powering up, an SS scans the band for a downlink channel. Once it recognizes one DL-MAP message and discerns the respective downlink Burst Profile information, synchronization is said to be achieved. An SS remains synchronized as long as it continues to successfully receive the DL-MAP and the DCD message for the channel.

Figure 5.1 Network Entry and Initialization flowchart for IEEE 802.16-2009. Reproduced by permission of © 2009 IEEE.

Once synchronization is established, the SS waits for an UCD to distinguish a possible uplink channel. A BS periodically transmits the UCD to the MAC broadcast address. If the SS cannot distinguish an uplink channel, it looks for another downlink channel. An SS distinguishes ...