A distributed user association algorithm in heterogeneous cellular networks

Abstract

In this paper, we study the user association scheme in a heterogeneous network (HetNets), attempt to resolve the problem of interference avoidance and load balancing in HetNets. We formulate a logarithmic objective function, to reduce the utility of heavy load base station, and present a distributed load-aware association algorithm, which encourage users to associate the more lightly loaded stations. User will connect to low-power station (e.g., pico or femto cell), even if they offer a lower instantaneous SINR than the macro cell base station. We observe that users are stimulated by our scheme to associate with low-load, low-power base station. Simulation results support our expectations: in the proposed algorithm achieves a good load balancing between macro and femto cells, and increase the user average throughput. In addition, compare with Max-SINR algorithm, traditional algorithm, our distributed Load-Aware algorithm has a low complexity.