Adaptive Periodic MLB Algorithm for LTE Femtocell Networks

The number of users and data packets has increased in 4G cellular networks. Therefore, 4G cellular network providers suffer from the network capacity problem. In order to solve this problem, femtocell concept is suggested. It can reduce the coverage hole and enhance the QoS. However, only small number of femtocells experience the large amount of loads. To solve this problem, Mobility Load Balancing (MLB) algorithm is suggested, which is a kind of load balancing algorithm. To distribute the traffic load, MLB algorithm modifies the handover region. If the handover region is reduced by MLB algorithm, some cell edge users are compulsively handed over to neighbor femtocell. In this paper, we analyze the relation between MLB performing period and performance indicators. For example throughput and blocking probability is reduced, if period is decreased. On the contrast, if period is increased, the number of handover frequency is decreased. Using this relation, we suggest the adaptive periodic MLB algorithm. This algorithm includes the advantage of both long period and short period MLB algorithm, such as high throughput, the small number of handover frequency, and low blocking probability.