The digital standard known as the Global System for Mobile (GSM)has captured a large share of the global cellular market. This book aims tobridge the gap between a reader s basic knowledge of telecommunications andthe complexities of the 5000-page GSM technical specification. It describesthe system as a whole, covering all aspects of the standard, including mobilestations, switching equipment, the radio interface, infrastructure,transmission methods, and signaling protocols. System architects involved inthe design of personal communications systems will find the book to be acomplete description of the GSM communications system. It also may serve as ageneral introduction to digital cellular systems.