The merging of voice and data on a single network opens powerful new possibilities in communications. Only a fundamental understanding of both technologies will ensure you are equipped to maximise their full potential. Convergence Technologies for 3G Networks describes the evolution from cellular to a converged network that integrates traditional telecommunications and the technology of the Internet. In particular, the authors address the application of both IP and ATM technologies to a cellular environment, including IP telephony protocols, the use of ATM/AAL2 and the new AAL2 signalling protocol for voice/multimedia and data transport as well as the future of the UMTS network in UMTS Release 5/6 All-IP architecture. Convergence Technologies for 3G Networks: * Explains the operation and integration of GSM, GPRS, EDGE, UMTS, CDMA2000, IP, and ATM. * Provides practical examples of 3G connection scenarios. * Describes signalling flows and protocol stacks. * Covers IP and ATM as used in a 3G context. * Addresses issues of QoS and real-time application support. * Includes IP/SS7 internetworking and IP softswitching. * Outlines the architecture of the IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) for UMTS. Convergence Technologies for 3G Networks is suited for professionals from the telecommunications, data communications and computer networking industries..