A generic simulation-based dimensioning approach for planning heterogeneous LTE cellular networks

This paper presents a generic approach for dimensioning LTE/LTE-A cellular networks. Dimensioning is the first step of cellular network planning that determines the approximate number of base stations (BSs) needed to cover a certain area. The proposed approach takes into account user density, service subscriptions, resource allocation, and interference mitigation. It can be implemented in heterogeneous networks involving macrocells, microcells, distributed antenna systems, relays, femtocells, etc. The proposed dimensioning approach determines the number of BSs based on extensive simulations, and allows to analyze the impact of small cells in offloading macrocell traffic.