Base station selection algorithms in microcellular mobile radio networks

Base station (BS) selection algorithms that dynamically adapt to teletraffic variations in the microcellular environment are introduced. Though overlapping areas usually exist between BS coverage, we redirect teletraffic away from heavily loaded cells. We present three algorithms. The first is the directed retry with handover priority algorithm that recognises blocking of a call and searches for alternative BSs. The second is the BS load equalization algorithm that directs new calls initiated in the overlapping area to be made to the BS with most available channels. The third is the rearrangement upon blocking algorithm that clears a connection from the current saturated BS in order to allow the mobile station in trouble to be served. The performance of these algorithms is evaluated using event driven computer simulations in addition to an analytical queueing model. It is found that in situations where radio coverage of adjacent cells is overlapped, the proposed algorithms yield higher system capacity.