MSC in Pool (MiP)

In an ordinary network the RNC/BSC is only connected to one MSC. With MIP functionality (or intra domain connection of RAN Nodes to multiple CN Nodes, 3GPP 23.236) the RNC/BSC can be connected to several MSC/MSSs at the same time. MiP enables a RAN node to route information to different MSCs, hence one-(RAN)-to -many (MSCs). The MiP functionality helps to ensure that the user do not experience any connection failure even if a cable is broken or a node goes down. A pool- area contains several MSCs. If one of the MSCs in a pool-area becomes unavailable, the load can be distributed to another MSC.

The MiP functionality is primarily used for load balancing over MSCs or load redistribution, for example remove load from one MSC during maintenance.

Failover and load-sharing are the key features tested with MiP in Solver.

MiP key features

Load distribution
Load balancing

In Solver, MiP functionality (also known as A-flex or Iu-CS flex in 3GPP standards) is available for both the A and Iu-CS interfaces.

Solver is connected directly to the MGW/MSS, replacing the BSCs, RNCs, BTSs and Node Bs, enabling massive load and stress testing in the network.