Third−Generation (3G) Wireless Systems

   Third Generation (3G) mobile devices and services will transform wireless communications into on-line, real-time connectivity. 3G wireless technology will allow an individual to have immediate access to location-specific services that offer information on demand and it also represents the convergence of various 2G wireless telecommunications systems into a single global system that includes both terrestrial and satellite components. 3G technology, which is short for third generation mobile telephone communication systems technology, improves the efficiency of data can be transferred through your cellular phone. The data transfer rates for third generation mobile telecommunications is up to 2 Megabits per second. Aside from this feature, 3G cellular phones also have conventional voice, fax and data services, as well as high-resolution video and multimedia services which can be used while on the move. It also includes mobile office services such as virtual banking and online-billing, video conferencing, online entertainment and access to the Internet.  One of the most important aspects of 3G wireless technology is its ability to unify existing cellular standards, such as CDMA, GSM, and TDMA. 3G wireless networks consist of a Radio Access Network and a core network. The core network consists of a packet-switched domain, which includes 3G SGSNs and GGSNs, which provide the same functionality that they provide in a GPRS system, and a circuit-switched domain, which includes 3G MSC for switching of voice calls.

     3G systems will provide access, by means of one or more radio links, to a wide range of telecommunication services supported by the fixed telecommunication networks and to other services that are specific to mobile users. A range of mobile terminal types will be encompassed, linking to terrestrial and/or satellite-based networks, and the terminals may be designed for mobile or fixed use. Key features of 3G systems are a high degree of commonality of design worldwide, compatibility of services, use of small pocket terminals with worldwide roaming capability, Internet and other multimedia applications, and a wide range of services and terminals. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) International Mobile Telecommunications 2000 initiative ("IMT-2000") third generation mobile ("3G") system services are scheduled to be initiated around the year 2000, subject to market considerations. 

          3G was relatively slow to be adopted globally. In some instances, 3G networks do not use the same radio frequencies as 2G so mobile operators must build entirely new networks and license entirely new frequencies, especially so to achieve high-end data transmission rates. Other delays were due to the expenses of upgrading transmission hardware, especially for UMTS, whose deployment required the replacement of most broadcast towers. Due to these issues and difficulties with deployment, many carriers were not able to or delayed acquisition of these updated capabilities.

The 3G wirless network architecture

    3G wireless solutions allow for the possibility of having an integrated network for circuit-switched and packet-switched services by utilizing ATM technology. The BSC may evolve into an RNC by using add-on cards or additional hardware that is co-located. The carrier frequency (5Mhz) and the bands (2.5 to 5Ghz) are different for 3G wireless technology compared to 2G/2G+ wireless technology. Evolution of BSC to RNC requires support for new protocols such as PDCP, RRC, RANAP, RNSAP and NBAP. Therefore, BTS' evolution into Node B may prove to be difficult and may represent significant capital expenditure on the part of network operators.

Advantages of 3G Services

• you can perform a lot of functions such as sending information and data and acquiring these via wireless access.
• you can use their handsets and let it function as a modem for their computer to mail and send necessary documents. 
• Getting information is one of the best features of 3G technology. You can also watch the latest news and headlines, getting data like the weather, sports and economic details.
• With 3G technology, you get to enjoy data transmission speed leading up to 2Mbps, considering that you have a phone in stationary mode. It also gives you high degree of connectivity and higher networking, plus resistance to noise
• Despite the new speeds and features of 3G technology, the prices of handsets and mobile units are relatively the same. 
• Faster data connectivity
• Uninterrupted video streaming on phones.
• Video calls and big mms.
• Good for data intensive applications.

Reference:

• http://www.dryaseen.pk/wp_3g.pdf
• http://w3.antd.nist.gov/wctg/3G/3G.html
• http://transition.fcc.gov/3G/
• http://www.dciexpo.com/3g/advantages-of-3g.php