Access Selection in WCDMA and WLAN Multi-Access Networks

Abstract

This paper proposes and evaluates a set of access selection principles for data services in multi-access wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA) and wireless local area network (WLAN) networks. Access selection principles based on different input parameters are evaluated and compared in terms of their achieved bitrate characteristics. A heterogeneous user behavior with spatial traffic hotspots, covered by WLAN access points, is assumed. Results indicate that in many scenarios the simple access selection principle 'WLAN if coverage' yields satisfactory results. In scenarios with high traffic load concentrated to the hotspots or cellular access technologies offering bitrates in the same order as WLANs, better results may however be achieved with more sophisticated principles taking also traffic load into account.