Method and system for controlling the transmission power during macrodiversity

in the The invention generally relates to improving the use a radio interface in a radio system. In particular, concerns the invention, the control of the transmission power with the aim of efficient use of the radio interface. In this context the term radio system, especially a cellular radio system, communicate in the mobile stations with different base stations can.

In a cellular radio system is a certain number of radio resources to disposal. These resources can be described as a coordinate system in which the coordinates inter alia, frequency, time and place represent. are other words certain range in each radio frequencies for a certain time period to disposal. to Maximizing the data transfer capacity of the system and for minimizing power consumption of portable terminals, it is very important that the radio resources used in an optimal way will.

in the CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) system, in which a plurality of radio links, the are separated by means of a spreading code on the same frequency be maintained at the same time, the transmission power is a important factor in optimizing the use of radio resources. In a so-called macrodiversity connection, i.e. in a Situation in which between the mobile station and the network in the Substantially identical data at least two different base stations are transmitted, is the choice the transmission power of particular importance. In a properly designed Macrodiversity connection the transmission power can be kept so low that the interference, caused in other simultaneous connections, low are maintained as in a situation in which the connection between a mobile station and the network, only a single base station takes place. A macrodiversity connection inadequately constructed can the interference multiply and significantly reduce the overall capacity of the system. The present patent application relates to both macrodiversity connections as well as conventional Compounds which only touch a base station.

In a known CDMA system is often a so-called two-step Power control used. An outer control loop, that is, a so called quality loop, trying to find a matching target level for the SIR (Signal to Interference Ratio) the BER (bit error rate) and / or the FER (frame error rate) of the Compound and / or for another factor which the quality of the connection in question describes finding. about an inner control loop attempts to adjust the transmission power so, that the, or the most recent (n) Target level or the external of the loop is reported / are achieved / are. To compensate for quick Blend and the so-called near-far effect finds the inner Loop very quickly instead, even thousands of times per second. Typically found the inner loop 1600 times per second instead of. The operation of this type of control loop based on the fact that a receiving device investigates whether the SIR value or some other factor describing the connection quality, exceeds nominal level or below, and sends a corresponding acknowledgment to the sending device. In its simplest form, this feedback is only one command, the to increase transmission power or lower, which he expressed in this case with a bit may: The bit value of zero, for example, as a command for reducing designed the transmission power and the bit value one is used as a command to increase the transmission power designed. A predetermined step, for example, 1 dB, to increase or decreasing the transmission power can be determined in advance.

consider we first an uplink transmission in a macrodiversity connection, where the mobile station acts as transmitter and the base station as the receiver. Each base station measures for be like a SIR value or, compares it with the Target level and sends a power control command as feedback to the mobile station. The mobile station checks the received power control commands and decisions by means of an algorithm, whether its transmit power increased or is to be reduced. A simple algorithm works so, that the mobile station, the transmission power is increased when it from all base stations a command is replaced, to increase the transmit power, and reduces the transmission power, even if only from a base station receives a corresponding command. Other algorithms can be used and will continue.

at a downlink data transfer compares the mobile station the measured SIR value or the like with the target level and sends, on the basis of this comparison achieved result a power control command from all Base stations is received, at the macrodiversity connection involved.

Besides power control commands are other so-called control information between the transmitting mobile stations and the base stations.

Power control commands and other control information different from user data or the fact to be transmitted There<?page 3?>th that their content not to inform the user is used, but that they are used to control factors, which are associated with the use and functionality of the connection. Another example of Control information are apart from power control commands RI (Rate Information) bits included in each frame on each Radio connection is transmitted are included and for transmitting information about the data rate with respect to the frame in question from the sending to the receiving device be used. A third example of control information are the pilot bits used in channel estimation. The Parts of the frame in which control information is transmitted, can be used as Control fields are known. For each panel, various Demands are made in terms of reliability, with the control information contained therein by the receiver correctly must be interpreted.

WO-A-9533313 discloses a method by which the audibility of the BCCH (Broadcast Control Channel) of a base station through the regulation of the power level depending on time slots whether the BCCH is sent or is not improved.

In a known device leads a problem means that the data transmission between the mobile station and the base stations is not error-free, in which in this case, the receiving device the control information is transmitted from the transmitter, can be misinterpreted. For example, if the power control command from a (possibly is with repetition code) bits, at its value due of interference while reverse of the radio connection, in which case the device whose Transmission power is to be regulated, the command to increase the Transmission power interpreted incorrectly and instead reduces the transmission power or the other way around. Generally it can be assumed that the Likely to interpret a received control information wrong, is inversely proportional to the channel quality. The channel quality is, for example, described by the SIR value.

task of the present invention is the introduction of a method and a system whereby the problems related to the reception of control information both in a macrodiversity connection and in a connection between a mobile station and a Base station can be reduced. Another object of the invention is the implementation of the inventive methods and devices in such a way that this is not an unreasonable signaling between the institutions of a fixed network or between base stations and mobile stations required. Another object of the invention is characterized possible efficient use of radio resources.

The Objects are achieved according by providing a way dissolved in base stations and / or mobile stations, information that the Panel include (For example, the Pilotfeldbit that Leistungssteuerungsfeldbit and RI field bits) at a different power than the pure to be transmitted to send data. Each panel can have its own transmission power comprise either as an absolute power value or as a difference in performance between this and another field is defined. must also a suitable, adaptable Power control system can be created, the transmission power the the data associated with the control channel, controls. The Data associated with the control channel here mean in particular the Power control commands relating to the control of the inner Control loop refer, but also other data, the physical with the Up the radio link are connected.

The The method according to the invention can be used to control the transmission power in a data transmission system with a first device and a second device and in between uses a bidirectional transmission link , whereby the first device transmits user data to the second device and the second unit User data and control information to the first device transmits. It is characterized in that it comprises the following steps: <ul><li>- Determine a first transmit power level, a second transmission power level and a third transmission power level in such a way that the second and third transmit power level may be different from each other, and</li><li>- Send a data frame from a second device to a first device under Using the first transmission power level when transmitting a user data field, the second transmission power level when transmitting a first control information field and the third transmit power level when transmitting a second control information field.</li></ul>

The Invention also relates to a mobile station and a base station in a cellular radio system, which are characterized, they are such that they as the first or second device in the Methods described above act.

According to the invention the reception reliability the control information by sending the bits to a specific Panel includes, with higher or lower power than the bits to another field of the same frame &lt;?page 4?&gt;belong, be regulated. Once the optimal transmit power for the control field bits is found, the receiving reliability of the control information has the desired achieved level and the total interference of the system remains as low as possible. Of course, the reception reliability an increase the transmission power or improved by reducing the transmission power reduced.

The Transmission power of the control field is particularly advantageous in selected soundness the receiving device this is evaluate or how high the quality debilitating disorders during the radio link probably are. On the other hand, the transmission power of the various parts the control information is also dependent from the measured quality the connection between the receiving and the transmitting device in the same or in the other transmission direction be regulated. For example, the transmission power of the power control commands, associated with a downlink, in relation to the Transmission power of the remaining Bits that are included in the same frame can be changed, if the quality of the uplink connection unnecessary is high or low. Similarly Example, the transmission power of the power control commands, the are associated with a downlink, in relation to the Transmission power of the remaining Bits that are included in the same frame can be reduced, if the quality the uplink corresponds exactly to the target level. In this Case, the connection quality is typically described with a SIR value.

The increase the transmission power of the above mentioned RI bits with respect to the Transmission power of the remaining Bits that are included in the same frame improves the reliability of the RI bit interpretation, which is performed by the receiver, in which case the receiver the data bits that are associated with the frame, with a higher probability can handle properly. The difference in performance between the Pilot bits and the data bits can be adjusted on the basis of how well the value of the size is, with which the connection quality is described with which the pilot bits on average during a certain measurement period are connected. With the increase in Transmission power of the pilot bits is primarily an improvement reliability the channel estimation (And the SIR estimate) intended.

The for each Control panel separate control of the transmission power improves the Efficiency of use of radio resources, as for transmitting such control commands and other control information in the transmission itself low power with a sufficiently high reliability can be received, no unnecessary high power is used.

The Invention is described below with reference to some preferred and Embodiments, the exemplified are described in detail and the accompanying drawings. Show it:

<figref idrefs="S47">1</figref> a frame structure of a Downlink connection,

<figref idrefs="S47">2</figref> a frame structure of a Uplink,

<figref idrefs="S48">3</figref> more functional alternatives for the The method according to the invention,

<figref idrefs="S53">4</figref> a mobile station according to the invention,

<figref idrefs="S53">5</figref> a base station according to the invention and

<figref idrefs="S54">6</figref> a portion of a cellular Radio system, for which the invention is applicable.

The Invention is particularly advantageous in future UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) systems applicable, hence briefly below the performance of the inner power control loop for UMTS explained is. The invention is not limited to UMTS applications, but can in all cellular radio systems are used, in which power control commands and / or similar Control channel information between a mobile station and a base station are sent and received. As an example of such a system is the Mobile System IS-95 mentioned in the power control commands pseudo-randomly between the data are scattered. In this case, in the present process The relationship the transmission power Steuerbit- and the data transmit power to the effect regulates how reliable the Control information to be received. By increasing the relationship the control bit transmission power to the data transmit power is increased reliability reached.

<figref idrefs="S47">1</figref> represents a superframe <figref>101</figref> a downlink connection represents the 72 consecutive frames <figref>102</figref> includes. It is shown in more detail how the j. frame<figref>103</figref> in 16 timeslots <figref>104</figref> is divided and how the i. timeslot <figref>105</figref> in a pilot field <figref>106</figref>, A power control box <figref>107</figref>. an RI (Rate Indication) field <figref>108</figref> and a data field <figref>109</figref> is divided. From the standpoint of the invention, seen from the length the respective fields of no importance, an advantageous number Bits in the power control box <figref>107</figref> , However, varies as explained below. According to the standard proposal is &lt;?page 5?&gt;the length of whole timeslot <figref>105</figref> 0,625 ms and it contains 20 * 2^k Bits, where the parameter k ε [0, 6] is connected to the spreading factor used. The fields<figref>106</figref>. <figref>107</figref> and <figref>108</figref> put together a DPCCH (Dedicated Physical Control Channel) for downlink represents and the data field <figref>109</figref> provides a DPDCH (Dedicated Physical Data Channel) for the downlink connection. In the case of <figref idrefs="S47">1</figref> The invention relates particularly controlling the transmission power of the pilot bits in the field <figref>106</figref>. the power control box <figref>107</figref> and the RI field <figref>108</figref>, A pilot field, power control field and RI field is located in each time slot of each frame of the superframe, according to the invention it is but not required, that all bits of all pilot fields, power control fields and RI fields are used in the same manner.

<figref idrefs="S47">2</figref> shows a corresponding arrangement for an uplink connection. Here, the length of the superframe<figref>201</figref> 720 ms and it contains 72 consecutive frames <figref>202</figref>, Among the time slots<figref>204</figref>. the j shown in the detail. frame<figref>203</figref> contain are, there is the particularly illustrated i. timeslot <figref>205</figref>. wherein the DPCCH part <figref>206</figref> and the DPDCH part <figref>207</figref> simultaneously and are transmitted in parallel. These parts are separated by a Code spreading separately, that is, for transmitting the DPCCH part <figref>206</figref> is another spreading as used for transmitting the DPDCH part <figref>207</figref>, The former contains part the Pilot Field <figref>208</figref>, The power control box <figref>209</figref> and the RI field <figref>210</figref>, The invention particularly relates to the use the bits in the pilot field <figref>208</figref>, The power control box <figref>209</figref> and the RI field <figref>210</figref>, Similarly, as in the case of the downlink is an appropriate Pilot field, power control field and RI field in each time slot each frame of the superframe, according to the invention, however, it is not necessary that all bits of all pilot fields, power control fields and RI fields are used in the same manner.

In between a data channel and a control channel may be a difference in performance steady Size prevail, by which the effect of the different spreading factors to the ratio of received symbol energies is compensated. In general, the transmission power of the control channel of an uplink connection (in the UMTS application the DPCCH channel) less than that of the data channel (the DPDCH channel), because the spreading factor the control channel is greater in an uplink connection in general than that of the data channel. In UMTS is the chip rate 4.096 Mc / s, and if, for example, imagine a situation in which the bitrate of the uplink DPCCH channel 16 kbit / s, and the bitrate of the DPDCH channel is 32 kbit / s and the received money the channel-specific symbol energies should remain unchanged, should the Data channel with a twice as high transmission power as the control channel work because its spreading factor (<figref>128</figref>) Is half as large as the spreading factor (<figref>256</figref>) Of the control channel.

in the Generally, the ratio the channel-specific symbol energies (ratio of spreading) of DPCCH channel and of the DPDCH channel received by the base station, higher than The relationship the transmission power of the DPCCH channel and the DPDCH channel when the Bitrate of the DPDCH channel is over 32 kbit / s. In this case, the Transmission power of the bits of the DPCCH channel the uplink divided by the number of bits (or the bit rate) higher than the transmission power of the DPDCH channel divided by the number of bits (or the bit rate), in which Case, the control information bits (the bits of the DPCCH channel) with higher Energy is received as the data bits.

According to the Performance differences not limited only to the different channels, but can also be found within the channels, wherein each in the Fields - represented by the fields <figref>106</figref>. <figref>107</figref>. <figref>108</figref>. <figref>208</figref>. <figref>209</figref> and <figref>210</figref> in <figref idrefs="S47">1</figref> and <figref idrefs="S47">2</figref> - the Transmission power to be transmitted to the Bits have different values, and the transmission power of case to case and even while can be regulated to a certain compound.

In one inventively preferred embodiment , the desired relationship the channel-specific symbol energies of the DPCCH channel and the DPDCH channel an uplink connection on the basis of the quality of the uplink or downlink connection to be regulated. The quality is a measured or estimated Property, for example the SIR value will be described. If one of an increase or reduction of the transmission power difference between the control channel (Or a portion thereof) and speaks to the data channel, besides the must possible original value of performance, then is regulated considered will.

The Invention comprises a large Number Function and implementing alternatives. The relationships of these alternatives are mutually in <figref idrefs="S48">3</figref> shown that in five sub-figures <figref idrefs="S48">3a</figref>. <figref idrefs="S48">3b</figref>. <figref idrefs="S48">3c</figref>. <figref idrefs="S48">3d</figref> and <figref idrefs="S48">3e</figref> is divided. In the parent Image that is formed by the lower figures, the figures are lower arranged one behind the other, so that subfigure <figref idrefs="S48">3a</figref> the first and lower figure <figref idrefs="S48">3e</figref> the last is. In the the drawing function presented alternatives are hierarchically arranged, that is, under a certain higher Function is a certain number of functions of the next lower Level, some of which are alternatives to each other. The Fact that certain low to&lt;?page 6?&gt;level functions that directly with the same higher Function are connected, are alternatives to each other, by a point or a cross in the upper left corner of the block shown, representing the function. This is an example based on the lower figure in <figref idrefs="S48">3b</figref> illustrated function <figref>333</figref> shown under the lower disposed functions <figref>334</figref>. <figref>335</figref>. <figref>336</figref>. <figref>337</figref> and <figref>338</figref> . are Here, the functions <figref>334</figref> and <figref>335</figref> equivalent Alternatives (point) and the functions <figref>336</figref> and <figref>337</figref> equivalent Alternatives (Cross). The lines that the hierarchy of functions describe, will be continued by a lower figure to the next, and at the transitions between Sub figures are the lines with letters and numbers provided. The leading down Line A1 on the left side of the lower figure <figref idrefs="S48">3a</figref> For example, at the top the lower figure <figref idrefs="S48">3b</figref> at Point A1 continued. The functions<figref>317</figref>. <figref>321</figref>. <figref>322</figref>. <figref>323</figref>. <figref>324</figref> and <figref>325</figref> are Part of a larger function and must are executed in the mentioned order, as indicated by the drawn arrows between functions is shown.

block <figref>301</figref> provides the idea of ​​the invention, according to which Transmission power of the control fields can be chosen such that them different from each other and also different from the transmit power the data fields. As in<figref idrefs="S48">3</figref> especially the Application of the invention is considered in a UMTS system, in the position of the control fields and the data field in the frame which in <figref idrefs="S47">1</figref> and <figref idrefs="S47">2</figref> corresponds to, the choice the transmission power of the power control commands <figref>302</figref>, the Selection of the transmission power of the RI bits <figref>371</figref> and the choice of transmission power the pilot bits <figref>383</figref> under block <figref>301</figref> arranged. Now consider the selection of the transmission power of the power control commands.

It are three ways according to the invention to select the transmit power of a particular field. In the first alternative <figref>303</figref> is the performance difference between the transmit power of a particular field (under the heading in block <figref>302</figref>: The power control field) and the data field invariable in the system specification set. While this is not the best way, the system to different adjust conditions but turns out due to minimal complexity advantageous. In the second alternative,<figref>304</figref> certainly a radio network controller RNC the performance difference between the Transmit power of a given (power) control field and data field, is used in each case. The term "radio network controller" refers in general a device in the fixed part of the network, the use of radio resources a subsystem of a base station with multiple base stations or of another part of a cellular radio system controls. In a third alternative <figref>365</figref> determined each base station independently the Transmission power differences of the respective fields. According to alternative<figref>304</figref> is it especially in view of macrodiversity connections as opposed to decision-making in a base station <figref>365</figref> advantageous, to centralize the decision-making process in the radio network controller, as in this case, specific mechanisms for transmitting power control information unnecessarily between base stations are.

In alternative <figref>304</figref> are now to the power control commands, in downlink direction <figref>305</figref> be sent, and the power control commands that in the uplink direction <figref>350</figref> be sent, viewed separately will. In the case of the downlink connection, it is, according to block<figref>306</figref> advantageous, that the base stations in a macrodiversity connection are involved, various performance differences with respect to the Transmission power of the power control commands and the data field apply. The differences in performance, according to Block<figref>307</figref> at regular intervals, for example, so often as the actual power control (according to the inner loop) of Connection, <figref>308</figref> be carried out, or with a other frequency <figref>309</figref> be regulated, the invention does not write before, how often the power must be regulated. Regularity means in this Context no strict regularity, the power control frequency the power control commands may be flexible, for example, geared towards as high a percentage of system capacity that Task can be assigned.

As expression for the power used to send the power control commands is, for reasons the simplification of the power difference used as a very advantageous practice is only the transmission power difference between the power control commands and the data and not an absolute Transmission power value specify the power control commands. The radio network controller must then the base stations according to block <figref>310</figref> the Report performance differences, which when sending the power control commands the Downlink connection to be used. This can by signaling the radio network controller (RNC signaling) <figref>311</figref> or as part of an internal signaling between the fixed parts of the network <figref>312</figref> done. Information on all or some performance differences can also in block <figref>313</figref>. particularly advantageously using the RNC signaling <figref>314</figref>. are sent to the mobile station. For example, only the Performance difference between the Pilotbitfeld and the data bits sent from all base stations which form the macrodiversity connection, to the mobile station are, in which case the information about the performance differences between the other Control information and the &lt;?page 7?&gt;Data not signaled to the mobile station will. When the mobile station the transmission power information from the power control commands knows at the various base stations, it can, according to block <figref>315</figref> the received power control commands for channel estimation and for the estimate use of the SIR value. The basis for defining the downlink power differences the quality the downlink <figref>316</figref> and or the quality the uplink <figref>339</figref> be. In the former case, the connection quality of the mobile station according to block <figref>317</figref> by Applying either the measurement of the SIR value of the famous perch channel <figref>318</figref> or the distance attenuation estimates base stations <figref>319</figref>, If present, is measured. The Mobile station, according to Block <figref>320</figref> an average the measurements form a given period; an alternative is to immediate transfer each measured value to the radio network controller via the base station, this but would a significant portion of the radio resources between the mobile station take and the base station to complete. In the mean education<figref>320</figref> can a weighting incorporated, the recent Values ​​the greatest weight have.

After the quality measurement <figref>317</figref> follows a chain of actions that in an exemplary realization in <figref idrefs="S48">3</figref> is shown. In block <figref>321</figref> signaled the mobile station, the SIR-averages (or distance attenuation estimates) to the radio network controller, of the highest of the values ​​signaled determined and this in accordance with block <figref>322</figref> as Reference value used. Thereafter, in block<figref>323</figref> for each base station the macrodiversity connection size, distance attenuation factor called, is calculated. It is an average SIR of the perch channel of the downlink connection of the relevant base station or by a corresponding amount, the multiplied by the reference value or divided by this. Using the distance attenuation factor can the actual performance differences to Block <figref>324</figref> for each base station be calculated.

To take For example, consider that a macrodiversity connection n base stations , wherein n ≥ 1 , and the absolute SIR values ​​of the Perch channel (not in decibels), associated with their downlink connections and are measured by the mobile station for the first base station x₁, For the second base station x₂ and generally speaking for a Base station k ≤ n x_k represent. Suppose further that the highest these values, the value of x₁ is provided with the first base station is connected. The set for the first base station performance difference is (x₁/ x₁) * Z, the second for the Base station power setting difference is (x₁/ x₂) * Z and generally is spoken the for a base station k ≤ n set performance difference (x₁/ x_k) * Z. In these formulas to calculate Performance difference is, the desired performance difference between the power control commands and the data bits, if the mobile station part of a macrodiversity connection with n base stations is, so that the SIR values ​​of the Perch channel of the downlink connection these base stations, or the average distance attenuation factors, which are calculated on the basis of which, are the same. According to the calculation formulas is the transmission power of the power control commands of a base station k ≤ n in decibels 10 * log10 ((x₁/ x_k) * Z) dB higher than the transmission power of the data channel. The thus determined performance difference may also referred to herein as the power difference on the basis of the distance attenuation will. The difference in performance of the first base station that the highest SIR value of a downlink connection has, is 10 * log10 ((x₁/ x₁) * Z) dB, wherein as the value of for example, n can be selected , when the mobile station part of a macrodiversity connection with n base stations.

It is accordingly advantageous first instance to choose the parameter z such that it equals the number the base stations involved in the macrodiversity connection between the mobile station and are involved in the network. The parameter z is the reliability the power control commands to be improved, through a increase Value of the parameter z is achieved. For example, if three base stations will use, can for for selected value first be three, if necessary the value of the parameter z can be changed, however, so that the value of elevated , when the reliability the power control commands is not sufficiently high, and that the Value is lowered when the reliability of the power control commands (For example the SIR value of the power control commands) is unnecessarily high is.

In the blocks <figref>322</figref>-<figref>324</figref> will the performance differences substantially starting from the measured SIR values ​​of the Perch channel of the downlink connection, or from other corresponding quantities fixed. also can an individual reliability margin for every Base station are added to the performance differences <figref>326</figref> or according to the method the block <figref>325</figref> is reproduced, the same reliability margin to all base stations of the macrodiversity connection are added. This type of base station-related reliability margin can be used to control the transmission power of the power control commands are used, of all the base stations involved in the macrodiversity connection are involved, to be sent, and thereby the reliability the power control commands influence. Generally improved an increase the reliability margin the reliability power&lt;?page 8?&gt;control commands received from the mobile station be, and a reduction in the reliability margin reduces the Reliability. Since different base stations different reliability margins can have, the reliability the power control commands of a single base station on the Based on the measured quality the data transmission in block <figref>327</figref> be improved given the Measuring on the downlink data <figref>328</figref> and or the uplink data <figref>329</figref> the compound is based, so that the reliability margin can for example be reduced if the quality (for example, the SIR value of the power control commands or other data) is sufficiently high, whereas the reliability margin in other make elevated becomes. If the reliability margin on the basis of the average quality of an uplink connection, as it is detected by the base station, is regulated, it is advantageous the reliability margin to increase, if the quality (For example the SIR value) is just sufficient or insufficient, whereas in other cases is advantageous for the reliability margin decrease.

The reliability margin can be used alone to determine the differences in performance of the power control and the data bits of each base station may be used without the different distance attenuation the base stations and the parameter z to be considered, in which The case on the distance attenuation based performance difference 1 (0 dB).

A Another alternative for individual regulation of reliability margin and characterized on the basis of the power difference at each base station the quality the uplink based on a rule such as the following: The reliability margin will be raised, if the quality is sufficiently high (ie the value of the quality factor, For example, the SIR value exceeds, a predetermined upper limit value) and the reliability margin is lowered, if the quality is too low (that is, the value Quality Score falls below a predetermined lower limit value which is smaller than or equal to the upper limit value) and the reliability margin stays unchanged, if the quality the uplink neither too high nor too low (that is, the value Quality Score lies between the upper and the lower limit value, that is, in the so-called quality window <figref>330</figref>). In general, it is useful a positive reliability margin <figref>331</figref> (to the Example 1 dB; <figref>332</figref>to choose), in which case the mobile station the power control commands from the base station with greater reliability receives than in a situation where the reliability margin is not used becomes.

In addition, the Values ​​of reliability margin based on the data transfer speed (bit rate) be regulated <figref>333</figref>Wherein a function or a lookup table created is, wherein the data transmission rate used as a value depending of the reliability margin is shown. In this case relates to the transmission speed to be transmitted to the data mainly the data transfer speed in the same data transfer direction, to which the power control commands are related, the commands whose transmission power difference with respect to the Datenbitleistung is regulated. Thus, if the power difference of the power control commands, transmitted in a downlink connection, with respect to the Power of the data bits of the downlink is regulated, can the value of the power difference (reliability margin) on the basis of Data transmission speed the uplink are regulated.

According to the invention the Control of the power difference on the basis of the data transmission speed a particular transmission direction unlimited, regulating the reliability margin, which is connected with the power difference, or the regulatory of the whole power difference can however generally on Based on the data transmission speed the data carried, which are transmitted in one of the directions <figref>334</figref>. <figref>335</figref>. regardless of the direction in which the relative power of the Power control commands (or other control information fields) is regulated in relation to the Datenbitleistung. An increase in the reliability margin dependent on the data transmission speed is particularly advantageous <figref>338</figref>: The value of the reliability margin will be raised, when the data transfer rate elevated, and decreased when the data transfer rate slowed down. A practical solution is the representation of the function in the form of a table, wherein the Values ​​of the data transmission speed in one column and the values ​​of the reliability margin in the adjacent column are (look-up table <figref>336</figref>). Thus, the value of Reliability margin, the data transfer rate used by the is connected, be looked up. If the value in question of no data transmission speed can be found in the table, are similar values ​​to an interpolation the value of the reliability margin or the most similar Entry in the data rate column used to look up the value of the reliability margin. The function f ratio the the data transmission speed to the values ​​of the reliability margin reproduces, also a continuous function can be <figref>337</figref>, To this &lt;?page 9?&gt;way can the values ​​of the reliability margin are used in each base station of a macrodiversity connection, both through the quality the downlink (and / or uplink) compound as used by the Data transmission speed to be influenced.

A another possibility is to control the value of the parameter z, which is explained above, based on the data transfer speed - similar Manner as the above-described control of the reliability margin according to the data transmission speed. In this case the reliability margin is not longer of the data transfer speed dependent.

Instead of the measures described above below block <figref>316</figref> the control of the transmit power of over the downlink connection to be sent power control commands in block <figref>339</figref> also based on the quality the uplink done. The main factor for this embodiment is the description of the quality the uplink connection with the SIR value <figref>340</figref> or with the Value of another appropriate size after transfer is measured in the uplink time slot. The SIR value or a corresponding size can in this context, but also in other contexts, in which this patent application, the use of the SIR value describes generally as a quality factor to be discribed <figref>342</figref>, In addition to the SIR value, other quality factors as S / N (signal-to-noise ratio) S / (N + I) (signal (noise interference) ratio), BER (bit error rate) and FER (frame error rate) possible. In addition to the quality factor or instead of the quality factor can also information about the reliability of Power control command, which is received from the base station, be used <figref>341</figref>; the investigation of reliability a received command or a different value is otherwise as a way of the quality to identify the compound. An estimate of the reliability a received command, for example, simply by Observation condition where the received form of the command on a Values ​​axis are arranged, wherein the known values is such that the correctly received values ​​of exactly Command correspond. The assessment of the reliability of a received Command is in an older , Patent application explained by the number FI-980809 by the same applicant, the is incorporated herein by reference.

According to the invention the Transmission power of the power control commands via the Downlink be sent and / or other data associated with the control channel (Or the ratio thereof Transmission power are connected to the transmission power of the data bits), even controlled separately in each base station of the macrodiversity connection will. In such a case it is very useful, First, the transmission power of the data bits, and then the other or to regulate data associated with the control channel, <figref>345</figref>. either in the form of an absolute power value <figref>346</figref>Wherein in this case is not the transmission power of the power control command must be dependent on the transmit power of the data bits, or by determining the power difference between the transmission power the control commands and the data bits, for example as decibel, <figref>347</figref>, At the beginning, the performance difference according to <figref>348</figref> by adjusting are initialized to, for example, 0 dB, +3 dB or -3 dB. A power difference 0 dB means that the transmission power values are identical, 3 dB means that the transmission power of the power control commands and / or other data associated with the control channel, twice as high as the transmission power of the data bits, wherein in this case, the bits that are sent at a higher speed be, with greater reliability received, and represents a performance difference of -3 dB, that the transmission power of the control commands and / or the other data, which are connected to the control channel, half as high as the Transmission power of the data bits. Thereafter the power difference be regulated continuously or it can by using a control signaling of the radio resources at regular intervals on the target value of the power difference which is requested by the radio network controller, reset will <figref>349</figref>,

Despite regulating the transmission power of the power control commands receives the mobile station the power control commands sent on the downlink be, with a fluctuating reliability level and in a Makrodiversi tätsverbindung with different base stations with different reliability levels. According to a further developed embodiment the invention can the demand be made that the command, the means a lowering of the transmission power with a sufficient reliability must be received by the mobile station to a lowering of to effect transmission power in the mobile station. The measure used for the reliability can turn the position above the received be the form of the command on a given axis, whereby the known Points are the correctly received values ​​of the command. Another potential Reliability measure is the SIR value or a corresponding characteristic describing the connection quality, so that the power control command is considered reliable if the SIR-value for the Data bits or the power control ge&lt;?page 10?&gt;estimates will, or an appropriate Value exceeds a given predetermined target level. Exceeds this does not, the power control command is judged to be unreliable.

The Minimum reliability, the for the power control commands in connection with a base station is required, simply means that the mobile station such Power control commands are not followed, which they judged to be unreliable. In a macrodiversity connection it may be required that each power control command with a predetermined reliability level must be received in order, as input information for the algorithm with which the mobile station controls its transmission power, accepted be able to. To take For example, consider that the mobile station part of a macrodiversity connection with two base stations. The first base station transmits a Command to the mobile station to increase its transmit power, and the mobile station receives this command with a reliability level, the above the minimum level is. The second base station sends a command to the mobile station to reduce its transmission power, the mobile station receives However, this command with a reliability level which under the minimum level is. Thus, the mobile station increases its transmission power, since the command transmitted from the second base station and as unreliable rated, is not followed.

consider We now an advantageous embodiment, to select the transmission power of power control commands in the uplink direction should be sent. In<figref idrefs="S48">3</figref> is this observation under block <figref>350</figref>, Suppose further that the decisions concerning the differences in performance of the radio network controller be like, where he in this case, the details of the decision to the Mobile station, particularly advantageously as RNC signaling <figref>351</figref> and to the base stations <figref>352</figref> as RNC signaling <figref>353</figref> or as internal signaling of the fixed part of the network <figref>354</figref> send have to be. When the base station the transmission power of the power control commands knows at the mobile station, it can be the received power control commands for the channel estimation and for estimate use of the SIR value <figref>355</figref>,

Of the Value used the Quality Score of Uplink (<figref>356</figref>), Which, the selection of the transmission power of the power control commands via the Uplink are sent influenced, may be either an average value within a specified period <figref>363</figref> or a value be <figref>362</figref>Which is connected with the previous time slot. If it is the quality factor is the SIR value of the control channel or the data channel <figref>357</figref>. the limit of use of the quality factor for the transmission power control can the power control commands and / or other information are connected to the control channel, according to the invention, the same be as the value of the common target level of the SIR value for the entire link (Determined by the outer power control loop, this means the so-called quality loop) represents <figref>358</figref>, A further possibility is to use of a value with respect to the height of predetermined range larger or smaller than the SIR target level of the compound obtained by the quality loop is predetermined. Generally, it is useful to have a positive value for the the reliability margin to choose, this means, the limit, the quality of the describes the compound, which for regulating the transmission power of the Power control commands for the downlink and / or other information associated with are connected to the control channel, higher <figref>359</figref> to choose as the target level for data transfer the compound is used. The value of the quality factor is measured by the base station and the radio network controller Posted <figref>364</figref>,

In its cells, the base station according to block <figref>365</figref> independent decisions regarding the make transmission power of the power control commands. in the Inside the cell, the same on a smaller scale substantially A method as described above in connection with the subsystem of the base stations described, whereby the decisions of the radio network controller like will be processed. In a downlink connection<figref>366</figref> takes the decision, which focuses on the base station, automatically to a Situation in which sending of power control commands in cells, belonging to different base stations, different transmission power values <figref>367</figref> used will.

The inventively regulated Transmission power of the control information, that is, in UMTS the transmission power the various fields of the DPCCH channel, must not of course exceeding the limits of the general power control dynamics <figref>368</figref>. this means, they may neither exceed the maximum transmit power nor the minimum allowed Transmission line below. also it is advantageous that transmission power of the control bits (DPCCH) bits so limited that the transmission power values ​​of each field of the control channel in any Manner are connected to the transmission power values ​​of the DPDCH channel <figref>369</figref>. the transferred in the same time slot becomes. For example, the transmission power of the DPCCH channel fields limited to an interval are, the lower limit is half as large as the transmission power the DPDCH, which is used in the same time slot, and the upper limit value five times as high as the transmission power of DPDCH, uses the same time slot becomes <figref>370</figref>, Other upper and lower limit&lt;?page 11?&gt;values, for example, be with trials found.

As next is explained in detail are, as the transmission power particularly in transmitting the RI bits according to a advantageous embodiment, of the invention is controlled. In<figref idrefs="S48">3</figref> is located this consideration under block <figref>371</figref>, To control the transmit power RI bits, the same principles be used as to control the transmission power of the power control commands, what the general blocks is shown that under block <figref>371</figref> arranged with three points are marked. The general block<figref>372</figref> provides the blocks <figref>303</figref>-<figref>324</figref> represents, associated with the regulation of the transmission power of power control commands are, the general block <figref>374</figref> , the blocks <figref>326</figref>-<figref>330</figref> represents and the general block <figref>379</figref> both the blocks <figref>334</figref>-<figref>336</figref> as the blocks <figref>339</figref>-<figref>370</figref>,

The Transmission power of the RI bits can in the method of the transmission power according to the invention the power control commands differ. Performance differences between the RI bits and the power control bits in one of the Base stations of a macrodiversity connection can, for example, The fact be recycled, that the power of both the RI bits and the power control in relation to to the power of the data bits is determined in the same manner, and on the basis of the distance attenuation estimates of the base stations the macrodiversity connection, or appropriate sizes, and / or on the basis of the connection between the base station and the Mobile station, apart from the fact that the reliability margin <figref>373</figref> of Power difference between the RI bits and the data from the reliability margin the power difference between the power control and the data is different. The reliability margin associated with the Power difference between the RI bits and the data bits, and the performance difference between the power control and the data bits is connected, for example, can in various Way of the data transmission speed <figref>377</figref> of the to be transmitted data dependent be. The function f - of reliability margin (Usually independently of the connection quality), which the performance difference between the power control and the data bits and the data transmission speed is added - can from function g the reliability margin differ in accordance block <figref>380</figref> to the Power difference between the RI bits and the data bits, and the data transmission speed is added. In the same manner as in controlling the power difference between the power control bits and the data bits it is also in controlling the power difference between the RI bits and the data bits not required, based on the distance of the damping performance difference (this means neither the differences between the distance attenuation estimates or similar sizes of nor to consider base stations the value of the parameter z), instead can the performance differences, different from the base stations a macrodiversity connection be used directly on the basis of the reliability margin are determined, in which case the reliability margin as performance difference may be referred to.

in the Generally, the value of the function f, a function of the data transmission speed and the reliability margin, with the power difference between the power control commands and the data bit is connected, suitably for each Value of the data transmission speed selected that they are at least equal to or greater than the value of the function g is a function of the data transmission speed and the reliability margin, with the power difference between the RI bits and the data bits connected is. This is due to the high reliability requirements of the based power control commands and the fact that there is often reasonable is, the reliability margin, with the power difference between the RI bits and the data bits is connected to keep relatively short since the correctly received RI bits in bad Reception of the data is not necessarily of great value. This is in accordance with block<figref>376</figref> by a reliability margin represented close to 0 dB. The value of the function g, the low data transmission speeds is connected, can of course be higher f than the value of the function, however, it is also advantageous the function f to be selected so that their growth rate at each point (the value of the data rate) higher than that of function g, that is, the function g grows slower than the function f <figref>382</figref>,

The versions in the above description for controlling the power difference between the transmission power of the RI bits and the transmission power of the data bits can almost completely to the control of the power difference between the pilot bits and the data bits Block <figref>383</figref> be applied. This is by the general block <figref>384</figref> (Corresponding to block <figref>303</figref>-<figref>324</figref>) the general block <figref>386</figref> (Corresponding to block <figref>326</figref>-<figref>338</figref>) and the general block <figref>388</figref> (Corresponding to block <figref>339</figref>-<figref>370</figref>) shown. The only difference, which in<figref idrefs="S48">3</figref> is shown, is that the value of the reliability margin, with the power difference between the pilot bits and the Data bits connected, generally &lt;?page 12?&gt;advantageously chosen higher than the value of the reliability margin, under block <figref>387</figref> With the power difference between the RI bits and the data bits connected is. On the other hand is inventively nothing in the way that the Power difference between the transmission power of the RI bits and that of the Data bits is greater than the power difference between the transmission power of the pilot bits and of the data bits. The reliability margin of Transmission power of the pilot bits can be regulated according to the same principles be that for the reliability margin the transmission power of the RI bits and the reliability margin of the transmission power the power control commands are, all of these reliability margins can but have different values. In cellular radio systems the requirements for the reliability of a correct reception High of pilot bits, which is why it is generally advantageous, Pilot bits (at least on the downlink connection, in which the control information, which include the pilot bits, and the data bits transmitted offset in time) at a higher power than sending the data bits of the same power control slot, the reliability and accuracy of the channel estimation is improved in this case.

<figref idrefs="S53">4</figref> is a schematic Representation of a mobile station <figref>400</figref> in a cellular Radio system that the transmitter part a microphone <figref>401</figref>, An amplifier <figref>402</figref>. an analog-to-digital converter <figref>403</figref> and a transmitter <figref>404</figref> as Receptionist part a receiver <figref>411</figref>. a digital-to-analog converter <figref>412</figref>. an amplifier <figref>413</figref> and a speaker <figref>414</figref> having. The propagation of the signal between the transmitting and the receiving portion and the antenna <figref>409</figref> becomes in a duplex block <figref>408</figref> controlled. particularly advantageous is the control block <figref>405</figref> realized by a microprocessor, of the connections to display <figref>406</figref> and keyboard <figref>407</figref> as also for storage <figref>410</figref> are provided in which the Program that the microprocessor <figref>405</figref> is processed, is stored and during the operation as data memory serves. To the invention at a The mobile station of <figref idrefs="S53">4</figref> To apply, must the transmitter block <figref>404</figref> be designed so that the transmitter block different Transmission power levels for transmitting a bit stream, the user language represents, and the desired may use parts of the control information flow, when the bit stream, representing the user language and from the analog-to-digital converter <figref>403</figref> generated is, and the control information flows from the control block <figref>405</figref> be generated, are fed to the transmitter block. For practical use, the invention must the control block <figref>405</figref> and the recipient block <figref>411</figref> also so be designed so that a communication on the guidelines of the transmission power can be sent to the control block, the data received in the Control signaling of the radio resource is contained, the Control block the transmitting power of the power control commands, the the transmission block <figref>404</figref> are used, on the basis of these can control information.

<figref idrefs="S53">5</figref> is a schematic Of a base station <figref>500</figref> with an antenna <figref>501</figref> and Transmitter / receiver units <figref>503</figref>. with each other with the aid of a duplex block <figref>502</figref> connected , said the unit <figref>503</figref> Also on the way <figref>504</figref> a Connection to the control block <figref>505</figref> and the transmission unit <figref>506</figref> created is; using the unit<figref>506</figref> is the base station <figref>500</figref> With the transmission system <figref>507</figref> connected that of the base stations Base stations subsystem connects to the base station controller / radio network controller. To the invention in connection with a base station according <figref idrefs="S53">5</figref> To apply, must the transmitter blocks the transmitter / receiver unit <figref>503</figref> so be designed such that the transmitter block the desired power level at the Transmitting the bits of the data to be transmitted and the information, with the desired parts the control channels are connected, can be used if the data to be sent from the transmitter block <figref>506</figref> about the path <figref>504</figref> are fed and the information, associated with the control channels are, as well as the information used in the transmitter block Transmission power values ​​are connected, the control block <figref>505</figref> on the path <figref>504</figref> are fed to the transmitter block. The application of the invention requires that the control block <figref>505</figref>, The transmitting unit <figref>506</figref> and the receiver block the transmitter / receiver units <figref>503</figref> also so is configured such that information about the guidelines on Transmission power of the control signaling of the radio resource, identified by are received the transmission system, sent to the control block can and that the control block on the basis of this information, the transmission power of the power control commands in the transmitter block the transmitter / receiver units <figref>503</figref> used be, and can change the transmission power of other control information.

<figref idrefs="S54">6</figref> provides part <figref>600</figref> in a cellular radio system is, wherein the macrodiversity connection between mobile station <figref>601</figref> and the network <figref>602</figref> about the base stations <figref>603</figref> and <figref>604</figref> as well as the Radio network controller <figref>605</figref> runs. In this case is considered on the assumption that the radio network controller <figref>605</figref> also as a base station controller serves; However, it is also possible, the radio network controller in connection with a mobile switching center to install or a different hard device of the network. In a preferred embodiment, the invention particularly suitable for use in this system is, provides the radio network controller <figref>605</figref> the guidelines for the Power control according to the invention for the base stations <figref>603</figref> and <figref>604</figref> and this for the mobile station <figref>601</figref> with the help of &lt;?page 13?&gt;Control signaling over the radio resources. In this case, the radio network controller must <figref>605</figref> in addition to the above, to create and expressions of such decisions on the Power control, which have been explained above, in connection with be designed in the various preferred embodiments of the invention.