Stochastic Geometry-Based Modeling and Analysis of Massive MIMO-Enabled Millimeter Wave Cellular Networks

Abstract

Massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems operating within the millimeter wave frequency range offer exciting opportunities for the future fifth-generation (5G) wireless networks. While the increased bandwidth and spectral efficiency are attractive, transitioning to millimeter massive MIMO presents significant challenges with respect to blockages, high attenuation, and channel estimation errors. To address these challenges, this paper evaluates the outage performance of a millimeter wave cellular network using massive MIMO under a stochastic set-up subject to pilot contamination and matched-filter precoding. We model the cellular users and base stations with Poisson point processes. Furthermore, we consider blockages from random objects, and employ different path loss and fading models for the line-of-sight (LOS) and non-line-of-sight scenarios. Moreover, both fixed power transmissions and path loss inversion-based power control are considered along with the sectored antenna patterns. Using stochastic geometry, we derive the moment generating function of the interference experienced by a typical cellular user and its outage probability. It is observed that the environments with different path loss exponents have varying behaviour for similar blockage sizes and densities. In addition, the ratio of the number of cellular users to that of base stations, and the antenna beamwidth are critical parameters affecting the outage performance.