5G Ultra-Dense Cellular Networks

TL;DR

This paper explores the deployment limits of 5G ultra-dense cellular networks using massive MIMO and millimeter wave technologies, focusing on backhaul capacity and energy efficiency constraints.

Contribution

It proposes a distribution network architecture for 5G ultra-dense networks and investigates the densification limits considering capacity and energy efficiency.

Findings

Densification limits exist for 5G ultra-dense networks.

Backhaul capacity constrains the maximum densification.

Energy efficiency impacts optimal network deployment.

Abstract

Traditional ultra-dense wireless networks are recommended as a complement for cellular networks and are deployed in partial areas, such as hotspot and indoor scenarios. Based on the massive multiple-input multi-output (MIMO) antennas and the millimeter wavecommunication technologies, the 5G ultra-dense cellular network is proposed to deploy in overall cellular scenarios. Moreover, a distribution network architecture is presented for 5G ultra-dense cellular networks. Furthermore, the backhaul network capacity and the backhaul energy efficiency of ultra-dense cellular networks are investigated to answer an important question, i.e., how much densification can be deployed for 5G ultra-dense cellular networks. Simulation results reveal that there exist densification limits for 5G ultra-dense cellualr networks with backhaul network capacity and backhaul energy efficiency constraints.