The Stand-Alone SLP: A Location-Enabling Solution that Truly Stands Alone.

The Andrew Stand-Alone SLP (SUPL Location Platform) is your key to unlocking the revenue potential of thousands of mobile applications and services that rely on location information.

The Stand-Alone SLP integrates quickly and easily with your network, providing an immediate and high-accuracy locating solution. As a secure-user plane location (SUPL) solution, the Stand-Alone SLP communicates directly with the mobile handset, bypassing the network architecture and giving users access to location services even when they are roaming.

Flexible and Affordable

The Stand-Alone SLP is the same platform used in Andrews GeoLENs MLC (Mobile Location Center). So it is capable of using a variety of positioning technologies to locate any SET (SUPL-Enabled Terminal) device. Locating technologies supported include:

• A-GPS (Assisted GPS) 
• Cell-ID
• Enhanced Cell ID (E-CID) using Timing Advance, Network Measurement Report and Measured Results List.

The Stand-Alone SLP can be deployed in any GERAN (2G) and UTRAN (3G) environment and will soon support LTE (4G) as well.

As an independent solution, the Stand-Alone SLP is easier and more affordable to implement than a fully-integrated control-plane solution. It is ideal for smaller operators who need to location-enable their networks along the user plane, or even for larger operators who would like to add a SUPL-only solution to their existing location architecture.

OMA-Compliant and Handset-Friendly

Additionally, the Andrew Stand-Alone SLP is fully compliant with the Open Mobile Alliance (OMA) SUPL 1.0 standards. The Stand-Alone SLP will also comply with the soon-to-be-released SUPL 2.0 guidelines, giving LTE networks an easy to deploy and cost-effective location solution as well.

With industry programs such as SUPL Inter-Operability Testing (IOT), Andrew is taking a leading role in helping operators lower the cost of deploying location solutions. The SUPL IOT is a collaborative initiative with handset vendors to ensure compatibility between Andrew GeoLENs solutions such as the Stand-Alone SLP and mobile devices.

Connect and Evolve with Andrew

Worldwide, mobile value-added services represent a $2 billion opportunity, with much of that locked up in location-based applications and services. To unlock the potential, begin by location-enabling your network - easily, quickly and affordably - with the Stand-Alone SLP from Andrew.

To get started, contact Andrews Solutions at GeoLENs@andrew.com

In addition to the core functionality and scalability of the GeoLENs MLC, Version 10 offers additional key features.

Key Features of the GeoLENs MLC 10 ::

Integrated Policy Server is available as an in-skin component on the SLP hardware platform. This added functionality enables operators to control and restrict bandwidth use, manage a variety of subscription-based and open location services, and interact with multiple policy sources.   

Increased Locating Capacity enables the GMLC/SLP to handle a higher volume of location requests, regardless of the technology used to send the request. Tier 1 systems can now process up to 1,000 MLP transactions per second, as many as 300 SUPL transactions per second, and up to 1,000 control plane transactions per second.     

E9-1-1 Smart Virtual Device GPS Cache improves A-GPS yield for emergency calls regardless of calling device limitations. The smart GPS cache stores A-GPS fixes and can provide the PSAP a higher-accuracy (A-GPS) older fix in place of a lower-accuracy newer fix. As a result, the GeoLENs MLC 10 can automatically compensate for devices which do not support GPS results caching.

E9-1-1 Initial Position Optimization allows the GeoLENs MLC 10 to replace the initial coarse location, typically a cell-ID fix, with a more recent higher-accuracy fix.

Enhanced PDE (Position Determination Entity) Selection Logic adds greater versatility to the way positioning technologies are selected and applied in the SMLC and SLP. SMLC messaging to the BSC is optimized when invoking the TA/NMR PDE. SMLC and SLP selection logic takes into consideration minimum processing time needed by PDEs to determine location. Additionally, user configurable options on the SMLC and SLP allow the operator to configure when a higher accuracy PDE should be consulted after receiving feedback from a lower accuracy PDE.

Enhanced OAM (Operations, Administration, and Management) provides extended event records for richer historical and statistical analysis, deeper diagnostic data for improved SUPL transaction analysis, and greater operational security and data management capabilities.

Manual Location Testing allows the operator to test for various parameter values by manually generating an MLP query. Using the GUI-interface, the operator enters the Mobile ID (MSISDN or IMSI) and submits the request to the GMLC/SLP. The GMLC/SLP recognizes and responds to the request as if it were an external LBS query. The system may be configured to simulate both control plane and user plane location requests.

To Purchase or Upgrade to GeoLENs MLC Version 10 ::

This software release is available as an upgrade from MLC 9.1.2 or later on either a GEN3 or GEN4 MLC platform. Any system with an earlier version than MLC 9.1.2 must be upgraded/patched to MLC 9.1.2 first.

For details on how to obtain this version, please contact:

        Kal Krishnan

        Product Line Management

        703.726.5831

        kal.krishnan@andrew.com

About the GeoLENs MLC ::

The GeoLENs MLC consolidates all the capabilities of the various network location node types into one single-bay solution that is flexible, powerful, and scalable. Each deployment is configured for the specific network environment, combining the functionality of any or all of the following location-based system node types:

Core Functions ::

• Dynamically calculates user location using multiple locating technologies.
• Administers and controls all functions within the location system.
• Retrieves measurement data from the network, mobile devices, and/or location measurement units.
• Manages communications between the location system elements and external entities such as LBS application servers and emergency response centers.

Locating Technologies Supported ::

GeoLENs Mobile Location Center—MLC

GeoLENs MLC can location-enable wireless networks of all kinds for applications such as E911 and E112, commercial location-based services, security and more. Andrew's GeoLENs MLC is one of the world's most versatile mobile location platforms. As no single wireless location technique can meet the needs of all location-enhanced applications, the MLC system bridges the gap between location-enhanced services and the location technologies that enable them by providing the capability to implement any or all wireless locating techniques. 

GeoLENs MLC supports handset-based, network-based, and hybrid locating technologies—cell identity, A-GPS, E-CID, U-TDOA, MREL and angle of arrival (AOA)—individually or in combination, on a common platform. GeoLENs gives operators the flexibility to add or refocus their location system as their needs change and as market directions clarify. While most vendors offer operators a system with one or two locating techniques, Andrew offers a no-compromise system that can provide the location capacity, throughput and support for all applications, present and future.

 A single platform system GeoLENs MLC can provide the location system functional elements (nodes) specified by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), Open Mobile Alliance (OMA), and even the NENA i2/i3 IP architecture recommendation.

• Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC)
• Serving Mobile Location Center (SMLC) for GSM networks
• Stand-Alone AGPS SMLC (SAS) for UMTS/WCDMA networks
• eSMLC for LTE networks
• Secure User Plane Location Platform (SLP) for SUPL location
• Location Information Server (LIS) for IP Location

All nodes are robust and full-featured, with capabilities that go well beyond the minimum standards set by the 3GPP and OMA. Each offers built-in N+1 processor redundancy, with advanced Andrew technology designed with standby processors intended to instantly pick up functions with zero interruption. Geographic redundancy is also available. Delivers five-9s reliability.

GeoLENs – Location Measurement Unit (LMU)

 Location-sensitive services or applications, including Public Safety, each present unique requirements for location accuracy, latency, reliability, cost tolerance, and other parameters. Experts agree that no single location technology can provide a “best fit” for all LBS applications.

That’s why Andrew has built into GeoLENs system the ability to provide multiple location methods. For Public Safety Andrew offers operators the choice of handset-based A-GPS and network-based caller location methods using Andrew’s Location Measurement Units (LMUs).

Designed to operate in new or existing Andrew network overlay location systems, the LMU can be located at the latest generation wireless network base station sites to quickly measure features of the radio signals received from handsets to be located.  LMU units functioning under the control of the Geolocation Control System (GCS) central location processor, receive commands to make signal arrival and other measurements in connection with emergency services location activities. The LMU units forward these measurements back to the GCS, where the location of the target handset is calculated. The handset location coordinates are then communicated to end user applications, such as PSAPs, via a Mobile Position Center or Gateway Mobile Location Center (MPC/GMLC) selected by the host wireless carrier.

 GeoLENs – Location Information Server (LIS)

 The GeoLENs ISP LIS is a scalable platform that can accommodate small, medium and large Internet providers using various underlying technologies. Andrew understands that some operators manage multiple access networks using different underlying technologies and our ISP LIS is flexible enough to support these on the same platform while maintaining logical network separation.

GeoLENs LIS can location-enable IP-based networks to support all location-sensitive applications.  The GeoLENs LIS can be deployed in access networks ranging from enterprise, DSL, cable and other wired and wireless broadband access types to provide the location of any device connected to an IP network.  

As more IP networks are deployed, especially within enterprise applications, location in the fixed network is of equal importance to location in the mobile network, Andrew’s GeoLENs system is evolving to support these new applications for both carrier and enterprise networks in a way that others cannot.  

GeoLENs GeoLocation-Enabled Network Solutions Policy Server

The Andrew GeoLENs Policy Server is a powerful tool for controlling access to, and the quality of location information in both IP and cellular location enabled networks. By controlling who can access location and at what quality, the Andrew GeoLENs Policy Server permits the operator to maximize control of, and ROI on, their location infrastructure investment.

In SUPL deployments the Policy Server works in conjunction with an Operators SLP to restrict SET initiated requests to mobile devices that have paid for a location capability. The Policy Server can be deployed as a stand-alone platform containing all the subscribers allowed to use SET initiated location requests. In this mode the Policy Server can maintain up to 70 million subscriber records and be queried by a number of geographically distributed SLPs.  The Policy Server supports multiple arbitration outcomes including:

• Acceptance, full location rights
• Rejection, no location rights
• Partial, a coarse location is provided

In addition to maintaining a subscriber database, the Policy Server can also query external operator policy sources in order to confirm a clients right to access location information. External policy sources include Diameter, RADIUS and LDAP servers. When used in this manner the Policy Server may be internal or external to the SLP.

For smaller operators the option also exists for a limited capacity subscriber database to reside in the integrated SLP-Policy Server configuration.

 The Policy Server is also an element of the GeoLENs LIS product portfolio. In the LIS, the Policy Server can be used to interrogate external policy servers, such as a RADIUS, Diameter and LDAP server to ascertain a users right to quality location information. The Policy Server can be configured to apply local jurisdiction and operator policies pertaining to specialist location clients. Agencies such as law enforcement and emergency services can obtain high accuracy location information for any device. Policies can be applied to both Targets and third party location requestors.

The Policy Server also enforces Target policies associated with HELD contexts. These policies may contain IETF common policy documents (RFC4745), geo-policy documents (draft-ietf-geopriv-policy-20), or a combination of the two.

The Andrew GeoLENs Policy Server provides operators with the controls and flexibility needed to manage and enforce location policy in their network. Operating as either a standalone or integrated element to existing Andrew GeoLENs location products the Policy Server adds real value to a location enabled network.

Download the most recent brochure!

GeoLENs Policy Server Brochure

GeoLENs GSM System Features:
SMLC (Serving Mobile Location Center)

• Provides overall positioning coordination, and interacts with MS, MSC, BSC and various positioning methodologies when necessary
• Control Plane Location
• Triggers A-GPS measurements for higher accuracy and interfaces to A-GPS Reference Network data feed
• Supports MS-Based and MS-Assisted A-GPS for GSM/GPRS/EDGE, iDEN
• Applies handset-based and network-based locating methods including A-GPS, Timing Advance/Network Measurement Reports, Cell/Sector ID
• Interfaces with operator network to extract measurement data required for position calculation processes
• Can be combined with GMLC, SAS, SLP, etc. on single equipment platform

GMLC (Gateway Mobile Location Center)

• Controls and authenticates requests for a subscriber’s location from applications
• Coordinates transformation of position    information into latitude and longitude that is handed off to an application or PSAP
• Interfaces to MSC and HLR to query for Cell ID positioning, allowing for cost-effective low  accuracy solution
• Interfaces to Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) or other Emergency/Public Safety Authorities for E911, E112, etc.
• Supports standards-based interfaces

                - 3GPP/GSM Le interface

               - Mobile Location Protocol (MLP) for location services and European E112                  emergency interface

                - J-STD-036 for E911 Phase 2 in the U.S.

• Can be combined with SMLC, SAS, SLP, etc. on single equipment platform

GeoLENs Secure User Plane—SUPL System Features:

• User Plane Location (SUPL)
• GSM/GPRS, UMTS/WCDMA, WiMax, LTE networks
• A-GPS and Cell/Sector ID Locating methods
• Supports Network-initiated and Handset-initiated Location

 Inter-operability tested in Andrew’s SUPL IOT Program with many SUPL Enabled Terminals (SET) from multiple leading vendors.

 Can be combined with GMLC, SMLC, SLP, etc. on single equipment platform.

GeoLENs LTE System Features:

e-SMLC (e-Serving Mobile  Location Center):

The eSMLC will provide the centralized serving location calculation platform for the evolved UTRAN in LTE. Andrew is actively participating in the 3GPP working groups defining the interfaces, protocols, and functionality for the eSMLC with initial product release slated for 2010.

• 3GPP compliant SLs interface support
• Supporting enhanced cell, time-of-arrival, and UE-based and UE-assisted AGPS location determination technologies as standards emerge.
• It will be supportable as a software upgrade on existing Gen4 MLC deployments
• The eSMLC can co-reside on the MLC with SAS, SMLC, and GMLC functionality

 GMLC (Gateway Mobile Location Center)

• Controls and authenticates requests for a subscriber’s location from applications
• Coordinates transformation of position    information into latitude and longitude that is handed off to an application or PSAP
• Interfaces to MSC and HLR to query for Cell ID positioning, allowing for cost-effective low  accuracy solution
• Interfaces to Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) or other Emergency/Public Safety Authorities for E911, E112, etc.
• Supports standards-based interfaces

                - 3GPP/GSM Le interface

                - Mobile Location Protocol (MLP) for location services and European E112 emergency interface

                - J-STD-036 for E911 Phase 2 in the U.S.

• Can be combined with SMLC, SAS, SLP, etc. on single equipment platform

GeoLENs WiMAX System Features:

WiMAX Location Server

• Conformant to WiMAX LBS Forum Architectural Definitions
• Support for both SUPL and WLP Protocols
• Multiple Positioning Technologies – A-GPS, Cell ID, Multi-lateration

GeoLENs IP Location (Wireline and Wireless):

Andrew’s Geometrix portfolio includes location products to location-enable IP-based networks to support all location-sensitive applications. The Location Information Server (LIS) can be deployed in different access networks ranging from Enterprise, DSL, Cable, and other wired and wireless broadband access types to provide the location of the device connected to an IP network.

Andrew IP location solutions facilitate IP service and broadband provider conversion to the i2/i3 architectures.

GeoLENs UMTS/WCDMA System Features:

GMLC (Gateway Mobile Location Center)

• Controls and authenticates requests for a subscriber’s location from applications
• Coordinates transformation of position    information into latitude and longitude that is handed off to an application or PSAP
• Interfaces to MSC and HLR to query for Cell ID positioning, allowing for cost-effective low  accuracy solution
• Interfaces to Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) or other Emergency/Public Safety Authorities for E911, E112, etc.
• Supports standards-based interfaces

                - 3GPP/GSM Le interface

                - Mobile Location Protocol (MLP) for location services and European

                  E112 emergency  interface

                - J-STD-036 for E911 Phase 2 in the U.S.

• Can be combined with SMLC, SAS, SLP, etc. on single equipment platform

SAS (Stand-Alone SMLC):

• Supports UMTS/WCDMA networks
• Control Plane Location (CoPL)
• Hybrid, A-GPS, RTT, Cell/Sector ID Locating Methods
• Interfaces to A-GPS Reference Network data feed for assistance data
• Interfaces with RNCs to provide A-GPS assistance data to the UE
• Supports UE-Assist and UE-based A-GPS
• Can be combined with GMLC, SMLC, SLP, etc. on single equipment platform

GeoLENs Operation Support System

Why just manage—when you can manage to do more.

Whether you’re using a single GeoLENs node or the entire portfolio, you’ve probably realized by now just how powerful it is. Never before have network operators had more control over location-information traffic, nor been able to offer customers greater access to IP-driven location-based services. From the GeoLENs MLC and LIS to our Policy Server and LMU, the location-enabled network is changing the way location information is sent, received and coordinated.

The GeoLENs OSS (Operations System Support). Designed to interface with any number or combination of GeoLENs nodes, the GeoLENs OSS lets you manage the operation, administration and maintenance (OAM) functions of your individual GeoLENs platforms as a single system.

• Capture and coordinate data from your GeoLENs servers to get a more complete picture of how your location information system is performing.
• Perform system-wide provisioning, edit individual server properties, and exercise Master Version control—all from a single location.
• Create customized reports that can be exported into a variety of formats for use in financial, operational, and technical planning.
• Remotely troubleshoot key functions within each node and significantly reduce your on-site maintenance costs.

Communication between the GeoLENs OSS and individual location platforms is two-way. For operations such as provisioning and updating, the GeoLENs OSS pushes critical information out to your various platforms, enabling you to remotely manage and maintain multiple servers from your network operations center. It is also a central point for data collection, pulling operational and configuration data from your various GeoLENs nodes for coordinated analysis and backup.