An ns-3 HSPA network simulator with application to evaluating a base station removal algorithm

In this paper we present system modeling for HSPA networks, and the design and implementation of an ns-3 simulator for HSPA performance assessment. As a case study, the system model and simulator are integrated in the context of providing energy-saving solutions in cellular networks. Our simulator is a highly modular and scalable for studying how a given infrastructure deployment solution, along with its parameters and physical configuration characteristics, translates into the overall system performance. Based on HSPA system modeling, we introduce a simple, intuitive, and fast energy-saving algorithm for switching off NodeBs from a dense, low load system, subject to service coverage constraints. Numerical results demonstrate that the developed ns-3 HSPA system-level simulator is able to effectively deliver detailed HSPA performance assessment, and thereby enables accurate characterization of the performance trade-off of energy saving versus throughput and coverage.