BICC, which stands for Bearer Independent Call Control, is a signaling protocol used in telecommunications networks to manage the setup, maintenance, and release of voice and data calls. It was introduced by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) as an extension of the ISDN User Part (ISUP) protocol used in circuit-switched networks.
In the context of circuit-switched networks, BICC is particularly significant because it allows for the control of calls over a variety of bearer types, including circuit-switched, packet-switched, and ATM-based bearers. This versatility makes BICC a valuable asset in modern telecommunications networks that often use a mix of different technologies to support a wide range of services.
Relevance to the MSC:
The Mobile Switching Center (MSC) is a key component in cellular networks, particularly GSM, where it handles call processing, mobility management, and ensures seamless network operation. BICC’s role in the MSC is to facilitate the signaling required for call setup and management. It works in conjunction with other protocols like ISUP for circuit-switched calls, ensuring that the MSC can efficiently process and route calls within the network. BICC’s ability to support both circuit-switched and packet-switched calls is advantageous as it enables the MSC to manage a diverse set of communication types, which is essential for the evolution towards next-generation network architectures.
By using BICC, the MSC can perform its functions more effectively, contributing to the reliability and quality of service in cellular networks. It’s an integral part of the signaling process that allows the MSC to maintain communication with other network elements, manage resources, and ensure that calls are successfully connected and terminated.