Abstract
In 5G networks, the coverage area of the base stations is smaller and the communications are at higher frequencies. The small cell concept has risen with high mobility and small coverage area. Mobile users can move among the small cells with different service requirements as a result of handover. The frequency of changing the small cell and the considered handover parameters affect the quality of service. In this paper, the handover performance analysis with different metrics and a realistic urban channel model is investigated for 5G small cells. The effect of the traditional handover metrics performance, on the 5G small cell handover procedure, is also shown. This study contributes to the research for developing new procedures on 5G small cell handover.
1. Introduction
The demand for more data traffic by mobile users reveals the need for fast and seamless connection to the base stations. From the first communication network structures to the newest ones, the frequency bands are getting higher allowing the transfer of more data. However, higher frequencies provide a smaller coverage area as a result of carrier frequency wavelengths [1]. These needs reveal the necessity of new generation communication infrastructures. 5G networks will have to deal with various network problems in the 2020s [2]. Although 5G networks are expected to play crucial roles in applications such as healthcare, industry, transportation, etc. [3], while these developments occur, various communication facilities have to be utilized or modified for 5G networks to be viable.
5. Conclusions
This paper provides comprehensive expression and simulation of the handover management in small cells for 5G networks. RSSI and SNR based handover mechanisms are simulated and their comparative performance analysis has been made according to various parameters. Basic handover management procedures have been proposed to develop fast and seamless connections for 5G and beyond networks. The parameter evaluation for handover triggering is the most crucial phase and the selection of the parameters is very important for reliable connection of the optimal base station. For this reason, unlike the traditional approach, SNR, which is an important QoS parameter, is used with the RSSI parameter, and a new handover mechanism is developed to provide the most appropriate base station selection. In addition, in order to prevent delays and packet losses, a faster handover is provided with the selection of a backup base station.
