Inter-Cell Interference Mitigation Techniques in a Heterogeneous LTE-Advanced Access Network

Abstract

As LTE (Long Term Evolution) networks proliferate and network traffic increases, LTE operators face the problem of interference. Because LTE spectrum is limited, most operators deploy single frequency networks to maximize capacity. However, while single frequency networks increase spectral efficiency, they also increase the potential for interference. Interference is highly unpredictable and depends on various factors such as channel conditions, traffic from other terminal and noise. Interference occurs between various equipment in a heterogeneous LTE-A access network and is a threat to the technology of wireless network. Hence, this research work seeks to analyze the various techniques for combating interference in LTE–Advanced access network per unit area using different combination of methods. Network-based interference mitigation solutions are not yet available to address the interference problems of today’s LTE networks. However, Terminal-based interference solutions are available today as they offer operators a powerful weapon to combat interference. The introduction of Femtocell to users has also made interference mitigation scheme achievable. The Femtocell interference mitigation technique mitigates the interference between network components such as Macro-cell and Femtocell in a heterogeneous LTE-A access network. The work also emphasizes the importance of heterogeneous network in a wireless communication and the basic sources of interference and their mitigation techniques in this kind of network. The implementation of all the suggested mitigation techniques and power control formula as explained in this work has been proposed to target the performance of heterogeneous LTE-Advanced access network. This, as a result, will improve the signal quality of the received signal, and end users will experience higher throughput and better service continuity, and LTE operators will improve coverage and increase the capacity of their networks.