If both pGSM and EGSM frequencies are used for CSFB redirection and the network provides multiple
ARFCNs (Absolute Radio Frequency Channel Numbers) across both bands, such as 52, 53, 80 (pGSM)
and 1021, 1022 (EGSM), then the UE's behavior will follow these steps:
1. Network-Directed Preference and Configuration
• The network typically defines a priority list or a preference for certain ARFCNs during CSFB.
• The UE will first try to connect to the highest-priority ARFCN provided by the network,
regardless of whether it’s in pGSM or EGSM.
• For example, if the network prioritizes 52 (pGSM) over 1021 (EGSM), the UE will attempt
ARFCN 52 first.
2. Signal Strength and Quality Assessment
• The UE evaluates the signal strength (RSSI) and quality of each provided ARFCN.
• If an ARFCN in pGSM has better signal strength or quality than an ARFCN in EGSM, the UE may
choose the better-performing ARFCN.
• For example, if ARFCN 53 (pGSM) has better signal strength than ARFCN 1022 (EGSM), the UE
will likely select ARFCN 53 for the fallback.
3. Load Balancing and Network Optimization
• In some cases, the network may use load balancing to distribute UEs between pGSM and
EGSM.
• If the network detects congestion on pGSM (e.g., ARFCNs 52, 53, 80), it may direct the UE to
connect to the less congested EGSM ARFCNs (e.g., 1021, 1022).
• The UE will follow network instructions to help manage load, selecting EGSM frequencies if
directed.
4. Fallback and Reselection Logic
• If the UE is unable to establish a connection on the initially chosen ARFCN (e.g., due to weak
signal or interference), it will proceed to the next available ARFCN in the list.
• For instance, if the UE first tries ARFCN 52 and fails, it will attempt the next ARFCN, such as 53,
and then move to the EGSM ARFCNs (1021, 1022) if needed.
5. Example Sequence of Events with Multiple ARFCNs
• Step 1: UE is in LTE and initiates or receives a CSFB-triggered voice call.
• Step 2: The network provides a list of ARFCNs for redirection (e.g., 52, 53, 80 for pGSM and
1021, 1022 for EGSM).
• Step 3: Based on network configuration:
o If pGSM is preferred, the UE attempts the pGSM ARFCNs first (e.g., 52, then 53, then
80).
o If signal strength on EGSM is better (e.g., 1021 is stronger than 52), the UE may select
EGSM first, depending on the network settings.
• Step 4: The UE connects to the best-performing ARFCN from the list. If it fails on one ARFCN, it
moves to the next in sequence until successful.
• Step 5: Once connected, the UE establishes the voice call.
Summary
When both pGSM and EGSM ARFCNs are provided for CSFB, the UE will:
1. Follow the network’s priority for ARFCNs, trying them in the specified order.
2. Evaluate signal strength and quality, potentially selecting the best-performing ARFCN.
3. Respond to load balancing if the network directs the UE to a less congested band.
4. Attempt fallback or reselection if the initial ARFCN fails, moving sequentially through the list
provided.
This approach ensures the UE selects the most suitable ARFCN from both pGSM and EGSM, prioritizing
reliable connectivity for the CSFB call
