Converged fiber-wireless access networks for next generation mobile backhaul enabling CoMP

We propose a converged fiber-wireless access network based on radio-over-fiber technologies as future mobile backhaul incorporating base station cooperation schemes (CoMP). Both analog and digitized RoF technologies are discussed as possible solutions, in terms of base station configuration, system performance and energy efficiency. The implementation approach and the capacity gain of CoMP are analyzed. To reduce the processing overhead, CoMP should only be enabled with a significant CoMP gain. Experimental demonstration of the proposed scheme is presented with more than 2-dB SNR improvement.