American Journal of Engineering Research (AJER) 2022 w w w . a j e r . o r g
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Fig. 4 Interconnection of LTE to GSM and UMTS Networks
There has to be a connection between the LTE network, GSM and UMTS networks to ensure that the
subscriber’s context, which is; the assigned IP address, quality of service settings, authentication and ciphering
keys, etc., can be exchanged in a seamless way between all the core network components. This is depicted in
fig. 4 [2].
The basic principles for LTE include:
o A packet-based architecture where events in real-time can take place.
o Reduction in number of interfaces.
o Reduction of delay variation for traffic which needs low delay jitter.
o An end-to-end quality of service to manage the different types of traffic.
o An enhanced user experience focusing on more services with reduced cost and high speed [14].
IV. ADVANTAGES AND DISDVANTAGES OF LTE SYSTEMS Table 1.0 [11] summarizes the advantages of the LTE system and the disadvantages of the LTE system.
It shows that the advantages of the LTE system surpass the disadvantages of the LTE system. This essentially
means that the LTE system is more of an advantage to be in existence than a disadvantage.
Table 1.0 Advantages and Disadvantages of the LTE System
S/N Advantages Disadvantages 1
Higher bandwidth (faster data transfer speed)
LTE is not currently available in all cities in countries all over
the world.
2
Lower Latency (faster response time)
LTE is a complex system that requires only skilled people to
maintain and manage the system.
3
Improved spectrum efficiency (increase in overall
network capacity)
More towers and new technologies need to be developed for
better signals while in transit, for instance; in buses and trains.
4
High security wireless cellular network
LTE technology cannot be used in old versions of smart
phones. It requires smart mobile phones which support LTE
functionality.
5
Highly reliable when a good LTE signal is
available
Purchase of new current version of smart phones for the sole
purpose of making use of the LTE system is a costly affair.
6
Data and voice exchange between participants
due to packet switching
It requires smart mobile phones which support LTE
functionality
7
Transfer of high amount of data between the
sender and receiver
More towers and new technologies need to be developed for
better signals
8
All data consumption occurs to low power
consumption leading to longer and better lifespan
of smart phone batteries
Purchase of new current version of smart phones for the sole
purpose of making use of the LTE system is a costly affair
9
High speed of file uploads and downloads
More towers and new technologies need to be developed for
better signals
10
Higher versions of LTE such as; LTE Advanced
(LTE-A) will further improve the performance of
existing LTE standard based products.
More towers and new technologies need to be deployed