Hierarchical optimization of microcellular call handoffs

This paper presents a novel hierarchical optimization handoff algorithm (HOHA) which has superior performance over the conventional 1- and 2-threshold handoff algorithms. The proposed algorithm scans through layers of call handoff options and determines the best candidate based on a heuristic that synchronises reciprocal handoffs in adjacent cells and maximises the spare channel capacity in the destination cells. Computer simulation results show that under a unity normalised load condition, the HOHA achieves a gain of about 55% and 11% in the probability of handoff failure as compared to the 1- and 2-threshold handoff algorithms, respectively. In addition, the total effective load carried is also improved by about 13% and 4%, respectively