A Multi-Layer Network Selection Function for downlink handover scheme in LTE and LTE-advanced

The emerging Long Term Evolution (LTE) network standard utilizes the “break - before - make” mechanism in the downlink handover. However, the mechanism is subjected to many difficulties in handover decisions, thus resulting in low throughput and high latency. This paper overview mobility management and downlink handover procedure being adopted in the LTE/LTE-Advanced downlink. A new proposed Multi-Layer Network Selection Function (MLNSF) has been proposed to improve the handover performance by using other secondary network presence such as Wi-Fi or WiMAX to select the network access. By implementing the MLNSF, a better handover decision is expected.