Product Overview

The GPRS Performance Test System SE by Spirent Communications is the only mobility test tool that simulates real-world traffic models for GPRS mobility core packet data networks. The application runs on Spirent’s proven Mobility 2500 platform–a comprehensive end-to-end test system that emulates millions of mobile data subscribers, all accessing the wireless network simultaneously via various access models.

By emulating all of the key wireless core packet data network elements and combining control plane and data plane simulation, the GPRS Performance Test System SE provides real-world emulation of millions of mobile nodes in various stages of activation, deactivation, and “handoff”
between cells, all while transmitting and receiving real-world application data.

The GPRS Performance Test System SE allows GGSN equipment vendors to accurately specify the performance characteristics of their equipment under the real-world conditions experienced in their customers’ networks. It also allows service providers to measure the performance of their GPRS networks and to validate new features and services in the lab. By simulating real users with real applications, the GPRS Performance Test System SE gives the service provider peace of mind in knowing that the transition from the evaluation lab to the live network will be smooth and free of performance problems.

Unmatched Scalability

The flexible and powerful Spirent Mobility 2500 platform provides the foundation for the GPRS Performance Test System SE. Its modular high-performance architecture offers unmatched scalability and allows the user to simulate subscriber loads ranging from a small rural town to
the largest metropolitan city.

The user controls the GPRS Performance Test System SE using a standard web browser. The browser connects to the Test Administration Server, which controls one or more Test Servers. The Test Administration Server supports up to 48 simultaneous users and can control up to
32 Test Servers. With a total capacity of over 12 million simultaneous GTP tunnels and a bearer traffic capability of 4 gigabits per second, the GPRS Performance Test System SE can scale to stress even the largest operator networks.

Ease of Use

The GPRS Performance Test System SE features a powerful, easy-to-use graphical user interface that allows a test operator to quickly set up complex test sessions. These sessions can be saved, modified, and reused, allowing quick and easy creation of numerous scenarios covering the various GPRS access models.

The comprehensive set of Soak Test capabilities allows the user to run many test cases simultaneously on multiple Test Servers, creating real-world scenarios for heavy load and long duration stability tests.

Just as in a live network, the GPRS Performance Test System SE can generate variable session rates, mobility events, bearer traffic with application protocols, and error scenarios. These tests can be run continuously for up to 30 days.

Unparalleled Emulation

The emulation capabilities of the GPRS Performance Test System SE allow the user to test in a variety of network topologies by emulating all necessary network components, including SGSNs (with downstream RNCs and/or BSSs, as well as UEs and Mobile Stations) and Internet hosts. This allows for more effective utilization of lab equipment and reduces the capital expenditure and ongoing support costs associated with a test lab.

Detailed Reporting Capability

The reporting system of the GPRS Performance Test System SE provides a real-time event log throughout the execution of a test session. In addition, detailed interim and final reports are provided for each test case. The reports include all of the test measurement data, as well as operational measurements for each protocol layer. For test sessions involving multiple test cases, separate reports are provided for each test case, with a summary report detailing the combined results for the test session.

Emulation Results

In addition to test reports and protocol measurements, each emulator provides detailed measurements based on its function. For example, the SGSN emulator provides a complete set of operational statistics for its interface to the GGSN under test.