Technical Details
API
SMPP: The SMSCarrier service supports the Short Message Peer to Peer (SMPP) API v3.3 and v3.4. Technical information regarding each of the APIs, including the specific subset of capability supported which is contained in the SMSCarrier Abbreviated SMPP Protocol Implementation Conformance Statement (PICS), is available in the Documentation section. SMPP/TLS is also available in order to provide a secure link with our SMS gateway.
Originator Addressing (Source Addresses/ Sender IDs)
SMSCarrier accounts allow dynamic control of the source address of messages. Alphanumeric, national numeric and international numeric addresses are supported where available. Note that premium rate voice telephone numbers are not permitted to be used.
Timestamp Localization
The timestamp on SMS sent through SMSCarrier can be localized based on destination mobile telephone. HSL's SMSCs are located in the UK but the timestamp of SMS sent through the service can reflect the mobile user's local time to assist with user experience. Timestamp correction is optional and is available on a subset of networks supported by SMSCarrier.
Delivery Infrastructure
The SMSCarrier service utilizes the advanced technical messaging infrastructure of HSL including SMSCs owned and operated by HSL and the SMSCs of networks with which HSL has a commercial agreement for the delivery of SMS. Messages submitted through the SMSCarrier service are routed where possible directly via HSL to an SMSC and sent from that SMSC over its SS7 interface to be delivered to the destination network. Messages may also be routed via other reliable SMS gateways for subsequent delivery to the destination mobile. Mobile Number Portability (MNP) is supported to ensure messages are delivered to ported numbers.
In order to reliably deliver SMS messages, Short Message Service Centres (SMSCs) are used to convey messages between mobile users, and between mobile users and applications. HSL utilize a large number of highly reliable SMSC platforms from established mobile operators and HSL's own carrier grade SS7 SMSCs as part of their delivery infrastructure for inbound and outbound messaging. HSL's delivery infrastructure comprises mobile operator SMSC platforms located on their own networks and also HSL's own SMSCs located on an established mobile network. Key elements of our infrastructure also include the data centre sites, and the links between sites, SMSCs and networks.
HSL's SMSCs (Short Message Service Centres)
The introduction of HSL's own SMSCs, to compliment their existing SMSC connections with established mobile operators, provides exciting service opportunities for HSL and their clients. As with all core messaging software systems operated by HSL, the SMSCs are the result of internal software development by HSL’s software engineering team, with development having commenced in 2000. The currently deployed SMSCs located in the United Kingdom on HSL’s SS7 network are connected to the global SS7 network, of which the first SMSC went fully live in October 2004.
HSL’s SMSCs comprise integrated HLR (Home Location Register) and MSC (Mobile Switching Centre) capability and have a high degree of functionality for inbound and outbound (MO/MT) SMS. SMSC platforms communicate directly with the SS7 network to provide low latency, highly reliable means of SMS delivery.