Traffic demand characterization for multimedia mobile networks

We discuss theoretical and practical aspects related to the dimensioning of hybrid traffic (voice and data) for mobile wireless networks such as the third-generation (3G) systems. The major aspect looked at is the user profile description, with characterization of the main metrics and models that describe the user´s voice and data demand. The user profile leads to discussion of the asymmetric nature of the subscriber, which has direct implications on how the network links are designed in order to provide balanced spectrum distribution between downlink and uplink. Next we present a practical approach to explore the dynamics of user geographical distribution in creating multi-service, multi-class traffic layers that serve as input for network traffic simulation algorithms