Design, Deployment and Performance of 4G-LTE Networks: A Practical Approach

Chapter 84G Advanced Features and Roadmap Evolutions from LTE to LTE-A

Ayman Elnashar and Mohamed A. El-saidny

The standardization in 3GPP Release 8 defines the first specifications of LTE (long term evolution). The evolved packet system (EPS) is defined, mandating the key features and components of both the radio access network (E-UTRAN, evolved universal terrestrial radio access network) and the core network (evolved packet core, EPC). Orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) is defined as the air interface with the ability to support multi-layer data streams using multiple input–multiple output (MIMO) antenna systems to increase spectral efficiency. LTE is defined as an all-IP network topology differentiated over the legacy circuit switch (CS) domain. However, Release 8 specification makes use of the CS domain to maintain compatibility with 2G and 3G systems by utilizing the voice calls circuit switch fallback (CSFB) technique for any of those systems. Other significant aspects defined in this initial 3GPP release are the self-organizing networks (SONs) and home base stations (home eNodeB, eNB), aiming at revolutionized heterogeneous networks (HetNets). Moreover, Release 8 provides techniques for the smartphone's battery saving, known as connected mode discontinuous reception (C-DRX).

LTE Release 9 provides improvements to Release 8 standards, most notably enabling improved network throughput by refining SON and improving eNB mobility (1). Additional MIMO flexibility ...