An Optimal Switching-off eNB Selection Algorithm in LTE Hyper-dense Networks

Although the application of the exhaustive search (ES) algorithm in the energy conservation strategy can realize the simultaneous switching off of multiple eNBs in the existing eNB-based (Evolved Node B) networks, it fails to satisfy the practical requirement of network deployment with the heavy computation burden. On account of this, this paper proposes an optimal switching-off eNB selection (OSS) algorithm in homogeneous networks. By selecting a certain cell within the coverage of multiple eNBs, the OSS algorithm can make an evaluation of the increment of network load caused by the switching off of various eNBs in the coverage area. Then it can sort one by one all of the eNBs that are to be switched off under the condition that the QoS (Quality of service) requirement of all of the users has been met. Afterwards, the OSS algorithm will switch the users according to the principle of least network load increment and eventually find an eNB that shows the optimal energy saving effect in sleep mode. The simulation results reveal that the OSS algorithm can satisfy the requirement of efficient energy conservation in wireless networks. Additionally, with low computational complexity, it also will facilitate network deployment.