Downlink scheduling and resource allocation for 5G MIMO-multicarrier: OFDM vs FBMC/OQAM

OAPA The definition of the next generation of wireless communications, so-called 5G networks, is currently underway. Among many technical decisions, one that is particularly fundamental is the choice of the physical layer modulation format and waveform, an issue for which several alternatives have been proposed. Two of the most promising candidates are: (i) orthogonal frequency division multiple (OFDM), a conservative proposal that builds upon the huge legacy of 4G networks, and (ii) filterbank multicarrier/offset quadrature amplitude modulation (FBMC/OQAM), a progressive approach that in frequency selective channels sacrifices subcarrier orthogonality in lieu of an increased spectral efficiency. The comparative merits of OFDM and FBMC/OQAM have been well investigated over the last few years but mostly, from a purely physical layer point of view and largely neglecting how the physical layer performance translates into user-relevant metrics at the upper-layers. This paper aims at presenting a comprehensive comparison of both modulation formats in terms of practical network indicators such as goodput, delay, fairness and service coverage, and under operational conditions that can be envisaged to be realistic in 5G deployments. To this end, a unifying cross-layer framework is proposed that encompasses the downlink scheduling and resource allocation procedures and that builds upon a model of the queueing process at the data-link control layer and a physical layer abstraction that can be chosen to model either OFDM or FBMC/OQAM. Extensive numerical results conclusively demonstrate that most of the apriori advantages of FBMC/OQAM over OFDM do indeed translate into improved network indicators, that is, the increase in spectral efficiency achieved by FBMC/OQAM makes up for the distortion caused by the loss of orthogonality.Peer ReviewedPostprint (published version

End-to-End Simulation of 5G mmWave Networks

Due to its potential for multi-gigabit and low latency wireless links, millimeter wave (mmWave) technology is expected to play a central role in 5th generation cellular systems. While there has been considerable progress in understanding the mmWave physical layer, innovations will be required at all layers of the protocol stack, in both the access and the core network. Discrete-event network simulation is essential for end-to-end, cross-layer research and development. This paper provides a tutorial on a recently developed full-stack mmWave module integrated into the widely used open-source ns--3 simulator. The module includes a number of detailed statistical channel models as well as the ability to incorporate real measurements or ray-tracing data. The Physical (PHY) and Medium Access Control (MAC) layers are modular and highly customizable, making it easy to integrate algorithms or compare Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) numerologies, for example. The module is interfaced with the core network of the ns--3 Long Term Evolution (LTE) module for full-stack simulations of end-to-end connectivity, and advanced architectural features, such as dual-connectivity, are also available. To facilitate the understanding of the module, and verify its correct functioning, we provide several examples that show the performance of the custom mmWave stack as well as custom congestion control algorithms designed specifically for efficient utilization of the mmWave channel.Comment: 25 pages, 16 figures, submitted to IEEE Communications Surveys and Tutorials (revised Jan. 2018