Performance analysis of 3G-1X EVDO high data rate system

The 3G-1X EVDO (Evolution Data Only) standard has been recently finalized by the 3GPP2 (3G Partnership Project 2) and published by the Telecommunications Industry Association as IS-856 (Interim Standard). This system allows data rates of up to 2.4 Mbit/s in 1.25 MHz bandwidth compatible with the frequency plan, of second and third generation systems based on IS-95 and IS-2000. Expected to be launched throughout the world in the near future, this system is capable of substantially enhancing end-user wireless data experience by providing high speed "always on" connectivity in a wide area mobile environment. In this paper we investigate various aspects of 3G-1X EVDO system performance through simulations and analysis. Link level simulator is used to evaluate rate assignment in different fading environments. Long-range prediction of fast fading is used to model operation of the 3G-1X EVDO mobile terminal. System level performance with multiple users in the sector is simulated using realistic assumptions of RF environment and mobility mix. Scheduler operation is included into system level simulation. We further propose a methodology for semianalytical evaluation of packet data sector throughput under assumption of bursty traffic. In this approach, an additional criterion is introduced to establish acceptable operating point for the system. By placing a restriction on a minimum tolerable user throughput (maximum allowed delay), we demonstrate a methodology for evaluating sector throughput in a consistent manner. This methodology ties together minimum performance guarantees for individual users and applications with maximum achievable system level performance and capacity. In this paper we present results demonstrating how the 3G-1X EVDO system capacity depends upon data traffic statistics and user requirements. The notion of system fairness, which is closely related to individual user performance guarantees, is also discussed with respect to 3G-1X EVDO performance.