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TAI (_List) Tracking area identifier (_List)

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TAI stands for Tracking Area Identifier, which is a term used in mobile communication networks, specifically in the context of Long-Term Evolution (LTE) and 5G networks. TAI is a unique identifier that helps track and manage mobile devices as they move within the network.

In LTE and 5G networks, the coverage area is divided into smaller geographical areas called Tracking Areas (TAs). Each TA is identified by a TAI, which consists of two components: the Mobile Country Code (MCC) and the Mobile Network Code (MNC). Together, MCC and MNC uniquely identify the network operator, while the combination of MCC, MNC, and TAC (Tracking Area Code) uniquely identifies a specific Tracking Area.

The TAI List is a list of TAI entries maintained by the core network of the mobile operator. It contains the identifiers of the TAs that mobile devices are allowed to access. The TAI List is an essential component of mobility management in the network and facilitates efficient handovers and location management of mobile devices.

Here are some key aspects to understand in detail regarding TAI and TAI List:

  1. Tracking Area (TA): A Tracking Area is a geographic region within the network coverage where mobile devices can connect and communicate. Each TA can cover multiple cells, which are the basic network coverage units. TAs are designed to optimize network signaling and reduce the load on the network. The boundaries of TAs are defined by the network operator based on factors such as network capacity, mobility patterns, and traffic distribution.
  2. Mobile Country Code (MCC): MCC is a three-digit code that uniquely identifies a country or geographical region. It is assigned by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and is used to identify the country where the mobile network operator is registered.
  3. Mobile Network Code (MNC): MNC is a two- or three-digit code that identifies a specific mobile network operator within a country. It is assigned by the regulatory authority or telecommunications authority of the respective country. The combination of MCC and MNC helps identify the network operator globally.
  4. Tracking Area Code (TAC): TAC is a code that uniquely identifies a Tracking Area within a specific mobile network operator's coverage. It is assigned by the network operator and helps identify a specific area within the network coverage.
  5. TAI: TAI is formed by combining MCC, MNC, and TAC. It uniquely identifies a Tracking Area within a network operator's coverage. TAI is used by the network to manage the mobility of mobile devices, track their location, and facilitate handovers when devices move between different TAs.
  6. TAI List: The TAI List is a list maintained by the core network of the mobile operator. It contains entries of the TAs that mobile devices are allowed to access. Each entry in the TAI List consists of a TAI, which includes MCC, MNC, and TAC. The TAI List is periodically updated by the network operator to reflect changes in the network configuration, coverage areas, or to accommodate network optimizations.
  7. Mobility Management: The TAI List plays a crucial role in mobility management within the network. When a mobile device moves from one TA to another, it initiates a tracking area update procedure to inform the network about its new location. The TAI List helps the network determine if the new TA is allowed for the mobile device and facilitates a smooth handover process, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity and service continuity.
  8. Network Optimization: The TAI List can be optimized to enhance network efficiency. By carefully configuring the TAI List, network operators can control the signaling load, reduce unnecessary tracking area updates, and optimize handover processes. Efficient TAI List management contributes to improved network performance, reduced signaling overhead, and better resource allocation.

In summary, the Tracking Area Identifier (TAI) is a unique identifier used in LTE and 5G networks to track and manage mobile devices as they move within the network coverage. The TAI List is a list of TAI entries maintained by the network operator, containing identifiers of the TAs that mobile devices can access. The TAI List enables efficient mobility management, smooth handovers, and network optimization.