Cognitive radio based resource allocation in femto-cells

We consider resource allocation in femto-cell networks to maximize the throughput while minimizing interference to macro-users nearby. This can be achieved by allocating spectrum resource in a cognitive radio way. The proposed resource allocation is performed in two steps; spectrum sensing and resource scheduling. The femto base station detects idle frequency assignments (FAs) free from the occupation by macro-users and then allocates sub-channels in an idle FA to femto-users, effectively managing the interference problem. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed scheme is verified by computer simulations.