Heterogeneous Networks in theory and practice

Expansion of using SmartPhones last few years changed all data usage forecasts and it seems that only macro-cellular network layer will not be sufficient in meeting users request. Definition for HeterogeneousNetwork(HetNet) according to Wikipedia is: “Mobile Experts defines the Heterogeneous Network as a network with complex interoperation between macrocell, small cell, and in some cases WiFi network elements used together to provide a mosaic of coverage, with handoff capability between network elements.” HetNet is an attractive means of expanding mobile network capacity. A HetNet is typically composed of multiple radio access technologies, architectures, transmission solutions, and radio base stations(RBS) of varying transmission power. The aim of this paper is to explain main aspects of increasing mobile networks capacity using HetNet. It will be explained design aspects of HetNet deployment also expected capacity gains and main concerns and problems which might occur while introducing HetNet in existing mobile networks such as signal imbalance between macrocellular layer and HetNet.