Analysis of hidden node problem in LTE networks deployed in unlicensed spectrum

Campos, Pablo ; Hernández-Solana, Ángela (Universidad de Zaragoza) ; Valdovinos-Bardají, Antonio (Universidad de Zaragoza)

Resumen: LTE operation in the unlicensed spectrum based on Licensed-Assisted Access (LAA) is being considered as an option to increase the capacity of 4G/5G wireless networks. This solution allows the eNodeB to contend with other nodes by accessing the shared medium and, through carrier aggregation (CA), to use both licensed and unlicensed bands to deliver best effort services. Nevertheless, the hidden node problem over shared medium access networks is an obstacle that must be addressed in order to reduce or avoid performance degradation problems. The metrics associated to LAA reflect the behavior of a node facing collisions. A better understanding of these metrics can help to identify nodes affected by hidden terminals, making it possible to take smart decisions about the continuity of a node on the unlicensed band, resulting in an improved network performance. In this paper, we first study the Channel Quality Indicator (CQI), Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) metrics on the context of LAA for a User Equipment (UE) that is facing different levels of interference. Then, a combination of the above metrics is used in order to develop an algorithm for collision detection. Finally, the performance of the algorithm is evaluated using a simulation tool under realistic channel conditions. The results show that is feasible to detect, with an adequate accuracy level, if a node is affected by collisions and subsequently if this node is located in hidden area. This is demonstrated with different levels of interference, realistic channel conditions and users in movement inside the hidden area.

Idioma: Inglés

DOI: 10.1016/j.comnet.2020.107280

Año: 2020

Publicado en: Computer Networks 177 (2020), 107280 [18 pp.]
ISSN: 1389-1286

Factor impacto JCR: 4.474 (2020)

Categ. JCR: COMPUTER SCIENCE, HARDWARE & ARCHITECTURE rank: 9 / 53 = 0.17 (2020) - Q1 - T1
Categ. JCR: TELECOMMUNICATIONS rank: 18 / 91 = 0.198 (2020) - Q1 - T1
Categ. JCR: ENGINEERING, ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONIC rank: 48 / 273 = 0.176 (2020) - Q1 - T1
Categ. JCR: COMPUTER SCIENCE, INFORMATION SYSTEMS rank: 39 / 162 = 0.241 (2020) - Q1 - T1

Factor impacto SCIMAGO: 0.798 - Computer Networks and Communications (Q1)

Financiación: info:eu-repo/grantAgreement/ES/DGA/T31-20R
Financiación: info:eu-repo/grantAgreement/ES/MICINN/RTI2018-095684-B-100
Financiación: info:eu-repo/grantAgreement/ES/MICINN/RTI2018-099063-B-100

Tipo y forma: Review (Published version)

Área (Departamento): Área Ingeniería Telemática (Dpto. Ingeniería Electrón.Com.)