Inter-operator roaming scenarios for third generation mobile telecommunication systems

In third generation multi-operator mobile telecommunication systems, terminal operations will allow users to select the desirable operator among the ones available, provided that the user access rights are maintained. Three alternative (inter-operator) roaming scenarios between public and private operators are proposed. The first scenario considers private operators as autonomous networks (GSM-based approach), the second scenario considers private operators as “domains” of a public operator (DECT-based approach), while the third one considers private operators as extensions of a public operator coverage. Their advantages and disadvantages are highlighted, while particular attention is paid on the implications on access rights management and design issues