GL's Message Automation & Protocol Simulation (MAPS™) is a multi-protocol, multi-technology platform used for the emulation of a variety of communication protocols over IP, TDM, and Wireless networks.
eNodeB Configuration Update - procedure to update the application level data required for the eNodeBs to interoperate in the network.Re-setting /Setting the X2 – procedure to setup or reset X2 interface by exchanging the necessary information between the eNodeBs.Reporting of General Error Situations - procedure to report general error situations.Load Management - procedure to report resource status, overload indications and current traffic loading between the eNodeBs.Mobility Management - this enables the serving eNodeB to move the specified UE responsibility to a target eNodeB.LTE X2-AP is responsible for the following functions: The principle Control Plane protocol is X2-AP (X2 Application Protocol) resides on SCTP (Stream Control Transmission Protocol). The X2 is the interconnecting interface between two eNodeBs in LTE network and supports both Control Plane and User Plane. eNodeBs have two interfaces, the X2 interface permits eNodeBs to intercommunicate with each other directly, and the S1 interface permits communication with the "Packet Core". In simple terms, LTE consists of a "Packet Core" and a network of eNodeBs (as shown in the figure). It will permit vastly higher data rates to mobile smart phones, making voice, video, and data truly integrated for the first time - through a single access technology.
Mobile networks are in the process of transitioning to Long Term Evolution, a Fourth Generation (4G), all packet network architecture.