Enhanced intercell interference coordination challenges in heterogeneous networks

TLDR

3GPP LTE‑Advanced is exploring heterogeneous network deployments that combine macrocells, remote radio heads, and low‑power nodes to improve spatial spectrum reuse and indoor coverage, yet the proliferation of small cells introduces significant technical challenges. The article aims to present the concept of heterogeneous networks and outline the major technical challenges associated with their deployment. It focuses on 3GPP standardization activities related to enhanced intercell interference coordination.

Abstract

3GPP LTE-Advanced has recently been investigating heterogeneous network (HetNet) deployments as a cost effective way to deal with the unrelenting traffic demand. HetNets consist of a mix of macrocells, remote radio heads, and low-power nodes such as picocells, femtocells, and relays. Leveraging network topology, increasing the proximity between the access network and the end users, has the potential to provide the next significant performance leap in wireless networks, improving spatial spectrum reuse and enhancing indoor coverage. Nevertheless, deployment of a large number of small cells overlaying the macrocells is not without new technical challenges. In this article, we present the concept of heterogeneous networks and also describe the major technical challenges associated with such network architecture. We focus in particular on the standardization activities within the 3GPP related to enhanced intercell interference coordination.