Simulation tools for the design of mesh backhaul and small-cell networks in millimeter-wave band

Abstract

Future small-cell networks using the millimeter-wave (mmW) band to provide backhauling or user access need for adequate and innovative simulation tools in order to optimize the pre-deployment design and thus reduce installation and post-deployment optimization costs. The proposed paper makes some recommendations on the inputs and simulation blocks required for the mmW small-cell design. A particular focus is done on the design of the mmW mesh backhaul infrastructure as it is associated to important deployment constraints. Severe propagation conditions in mmW band and the need for high routing redundancy lead to the selection of small-cell locations mostly at cross-roads and in LoS conditions of each other. Those constraints can be efficiently addressed by an automated simulation tool. The proposed design workflow is illustrated on a 60 GHz mesh deployment in a North American downtown area, with throughput and robustness evaluation.