In telecommunications, handover, also known as handoff, refers to the process of transferring an ongoing call or data session from one radio frequency channel, cell, or access point to another. The types of handover in telecom can be categorized based on different criteria. Here are the main types:
1. Intra-Cell Handover (Soft Handover):
- Description: Intra-cell handover, or soft handover, occurs within the coverage area of a single base station. It involves transferring the communication between different channels or sectors within the same cell.
- Use Case: Soft handover is used to maintain continuity as a mobile device moves within the coverage area of a base station.
2. Inter-Cell Handover (Hard Handover):
- Description: Inter-cell handover, or hard handover, takes place when a mobile device moves from the coverage area of one base station to another. It involves disconnecting from the current base station and establishing a connection with a new one.
- Use Case: Hard handover ensures uninterrupted communication as a mobile device transitions between cells or sectors within a cellular network.
3. Vertical Handover:
- Description: Vertical handover involves switching between different types of networks or technologies, such as moving from a cellular network to a Wi-Fi network or vice versa.
- Use Case: Vertical handover allows for seamless connectivity as a device switches between different network technologies within the same service provider or across different service providers.
4. Horizontal Handover:
- Description: Horizontal handover involves moving a mobile device within the coverage of the same type of network or technology, such as transitioning between cells in a cellular network.
- Use Case: Horizontal handover is common in cellular networks and helps maintain a continuous connection as a mobile device moves within the same network.
5. Hard Handover with Prioritization:
- Description: This type of handover involves prioritizing certain connections over others during handover decisions. It ensures that critical connections receive preference during the handover process.
- Use Case: Prioritization is crucial in scenarios where certain connections, such as emergency calls, require immediate and uninterrupted service.
6. Make-Before-Break Handover:
- Description: Make-Before-Break handover ensures that a connection is established with the target cell before disconnecting from the source cell, minimizing the risk of call drops during handover.
- Use Case: This technique is beneficial in scenarios where a continuous and seamless connection is crucial, and call drops must be minimized.
The choice of handover type depends on factors such as network architecture, mobility patterns, and the specific requirements of the communication system. Each type of handover addresses specific challenges associated with maintaining connectivity during user mobility within a telecommunications network.