Distributed algorithm for downlink resource allocation in multicarrier small cell networks

In small cell networks (SCNs) co-channel interference is an important issue, and necessitates the use of interference mitigation strategies that allocate resources efficiently. This work discusses a distributed utility-based algorithm for downlink resource allocation (i.e., power and scheduling weights per carrier) in multicarrier SCNs. The proposed distributed downlink resource allocation (DDRA) algorithm aims to maximize the sum utility of the whole system. To achieve this goal, each base station (BS) selects the resource allocation strategy to maximize a surplus function comprising both, own cell utility and interference prices (that reflect the interference that is caused to neighboring cells). Two different utility functions are considered: max-rate and proportional fair-rate. For performance evaluation, a SCN deployed in a single story WINNER office building is considered. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm is effective in enhancing not only the sum data rate of a SCN, but also the degree of fairness in resource sharing among users.