Anritsu has introduced options for its MD8475A Network Simulator platform that support WLAN Offload smartphone testing, creating an accurate and efficient test solution for verifying mobile devices early in the device integration test process. With the options installed, the MD8475A simulates real-world carrier network implementation of industry-standard WLAN Offload functions, such as the Access Network Discovery and Selection Function (ANDSF) and Enhanced Packet Data Gateway (ePDG), as well as the Multiple Access PDN Connection (MAPCON) capability. The MD8475A is a cost-effective network connectivity and performance simulator that enables efficient device testing in a single-box solution. This platform will allow mobile device manufacturers to bring their devices to market faster and at a lower cost.
For WLAN Offload, the MD8475A and SmartStudio user interface (UI) provide a cost-effective trusted and untrusted connectivity test simulation solution for applications such as web browsing, e-mail, and voice/video. One new option, the basic WLAN Offload software, provides functions for forwarding packets between the mobile device and networks with both trusted non-3GPP Access and untrusted non-3GPP Access authentication functions, as well as for monitoring packets graphically. The ePDG option supports the IKEv2 key exchange procedure and IPsec communications functions for untrusted non-3GPP Access network authentication. A third option, the ANDSF software, supports the function for setting and distributing the system selection policy between 3GPP and WLAN. ANDSF is an inter-system mobility policy function that directs mobile devices to connect with trusted 3GPP and untrusted, non-3GPP (WLAN) networks nearby. Defined in 3GPP TS23.402, TS24.302, and TS24.312, ANDSF is a key technology for WLAN Offload that provides a prioritization and connection management rule set to mobile devices that access these disparate networks. The ePDG secures the data transmission with a mobile device connected to the Evolved Packet Core over an untrusted non-3GPP Access Point.
There may be environments in which the network carrier needs multiple packet connections in WLAN access to support simultaneous services for a mobile device, such as e-mail access and video streaming. MAPCON technology, defined in 3GPP Release 10, provides the throughput performance required to seamlessly provide this type of complex service. The MD8475A Network Simulator is a complete network-in-a-box, simulating the radio access as well as the core network and server functions, and supports a full range of communications standards, including LTE. SmartStudio UI eliminates the need to create complex test scripts, assuring efficient and simpler mobile testing. In addition to WLAN Offload support, this solution provides detailed performance testing measurements for data throughput testing and verification of battery life.
