Advanced Basestation Technology for Wireless Connectivity in Rural Areas

Abstract

This thesis introduces smart physical layer based advanced directional networking technologywhich achieves full directional capability using “smart nodes” or “advanced nodes”, that are equipped with multiple directional antennas, smart algorithms, and propagation modeling capabilities. The advanced nodes have their six communication link antenna array structured in hexagonal from such that it divides the space around it into six-sectors. The scanning array used for user discovery is mounted separately and performs the 360-degree sweep to discover the users equipment seeking connection. Based on angle-of-arrival (AoA) estimation algorithm the incoming signal direction is identified and, optimized beamforming algorithm is employed to establish communication link between the user and antenna array of the sector where user is discovered. All these operations are performed through the coordination of multiple directional antenna arrays and smart algorithms, without the necessity of changes in MAC layer as has been the norm to overcome directional antenna deafness. Thus, it remains in compliance with the timing restrictions of the wireless standards. Simulations had been done previously on the WIFI and LTE single mobile user tracking and signal integrity. Multiple mobile user case also had been studied for the WiFi. This thesis includes the research done as the continuation of these simulation where multiple mobile users are tracked through the sector, and from one sector to another for LTE and 5G radio standards. The initial results of simulation show continued connectivity and tracking with high data rate in multiuser LTE and 5G environment can be achieved. This thesis explains the advanced nodes system concept in detail and includes the result for LTE and 5G simulations. Due to its capabilities, this system can work as fully functioning base station on its own or can be installed on the existing infrastructure as an upgrade.