A Centralized and Scalable Uplink Power Control Algorithm in Low SINR Scenarios

TL;DR

This paper introduces a scalable, centralized uplink power control algorithm suitable for large-scale 5G networks and UAV communications, overcoming previous limitations of non-convex problem solving methods.

Contribution

It proposes a novel condensation method with linear complexity, enabling efficient power control in large networks by transforming the problem into a simpler form.

Findings

Algorithm verified through simulations

Effective in small and large-scale networks

Potential benefits demonstrated in UAV case study

Abstract

Power control is becoming increasingly essential for the fifth-generation (5G) and beyond systems. An example use-case, among others, is the unmanned-aerial-vehicle (UAV) communications where the nearly line-of-sight (LoS) radio channels may result in very low signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratios (SINRs). Investigations in [1] proposed to efficiently and reliably solve this kind of non-convex problem via a series of geometrical programmings (GPs) using condensation approximation. However, it is only applicable for a small-scale network with several communication pairs and practically infeasible with more (e.g. tens of) nodes to be jointly optimized. We therefore in this paper aim to provide new insights into this problem. By properly introducing auxiliary variables, the problem is transformed to an equivalent form which is simpler and more intuitive for condensation. A novel condensation method with linear complexity is also proposed based on the form. The enhancements make the GP-based power control feasible for both small-and especially large-scale networks that are common in 5G and beyond. The algorithm is verified via simulations. A preliminary case study of uplink UAV communications also shows the potential of the algorithm.