Full dimension MIMO antenna configuration for optimal performance

Full dimension multiple input multiple output (FD-MIMO) employs 2-dimensional (2D) active antenna array configurations at the transmitter along with advanced digital processing to improve capacity for next generation wireless networks and services. This technology can achieve multi user MIMO (MU-MIMO) of high magnitude via the provision of simultaneous data transmission to large number of user equipments (UEs) in the network. It is quite clear that shifting from the conventional MIMO to FD-MIMO would require a change in base station designs, but the question remains; which designs provide the optimal performance? In this paper, we present results from a study of the impact of angular spread on throughput for a planar array system. By means of simulations, evaluations are performed to aid the understanding of antenna configuration for optimal performance. In order to demonstrate the potential performance benefits of FD-MIMO, simulations were performed with a detailed dynamic simulator which includes a 3-Dimensional Spatial Channel Model (3D SCM). Our results show that a square grid planar array with higher elevation angular spread can provide vast improvements in terms of throughput gain over conventional horizontal linear configuration.