Cross layer scheduling algorithm for LTE downlink

The LTE standards is leading standard in the wireless broadband market. In order to accommodate the increased demand for mobile data services the radio interface in the LTE standard is enhanced with advanced technologies such as OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) and MIMO (multiple antenna) techniques. The Radio Resource Management at the base station plays major role in satisfying the users demand for high data rates and QoS. Resources for both downlink and uplink transmission need to be assigned such that the capacity, throughput, and cell edge performance are optimized. This paper evaluates a cross layer scheduling algorithm that aims at minimizing the resource utilization. The algorithm makes decisions regarding the channel conditions and the size of transmission buffers and different QoS demands. The simulation results show that the new algorithm improves the resource utilization as well as provides better guaranties for QoS.