Performance evaluation of Relays used for next Generation wireless communication networks

Relaying is one of the latest technologies developed for next generation wireless networks. The purpose of relays in these networks is to increase the coverage and bitrates for cell edge users. Thus they are considered for Next generation wireless communication systems like Wi-Max (IEEE 802.16m), 3GPP LTE-Advanced (4G) and 5th Generation wireless networks to provide considerable increase in data throughput than the previous wireless communication systems. Reduction in deployment cost and easy to utilize are other promising features of these technologies. The objective of this paper is to understand the existing relay techniques, both cooperative and non-cooperative and outline the advantages of Relay implementation. Reduction in transmission power requirement for Simple Relay is shown in comparison with the conventional direct transmission, using Matlab simulation. Also SER (Symbol error rate) is calculated at the receiver for no relay and relay scenario (Amplify & Forward Relay) using Matlab to show the improvement using Relay node. Finally the benefits of Cooperative relaying is outlined using Matlab simulation.