Inter and intra operator coexistence of WCDMA HCS layers

The introduction of a WCDMA microcell layer has implications upon both inter and intra operator coexistence. Adjacent channel performance plays an important role in both scenarios although in the case of intra operator coexistence, handover helps to alleviate the issue. Coexistence has been studied extensively throughout 3GPP standardisation. The majority of 3GPP studies have been based upon theoretical radio network plans with regular street and building layouts. This paper provides an analysis of inter and intra operator hierarchical cell structure (HCS) coexistence based upon a realistic radio network plan in central London. WCDMA simulations have been completed to provide a detailed analysis of the various system interactions and impact upon system performance.