Study of Indoor Path Loss Computational Models for Femtocell Based Mobile Network

Abstract

Path loss minimization in next generation mobile network is a challenging research area. The signal transmitted by a base station degrades due to various obstacles in the environment. The received signal level at the mobile station is less than the transmitted signal level of the base station. This loss in the signal level is referred as path loss in mobile network. In this paper different path loss models are discussed for indoor environment covered by femtocell. It is assumed that the mobile users in that region exclusively access the services of femtocell. As only indoor area is considered, non-line of sight propagation is examined. Signal-to-interference-plus-noise-ratio for a femtocell base station is calculated. The performance of the path loss models are analyzed using vector signal generator and vector signal analyzer. A comparative analysis is carried out between the models. Based on the comparative analysis, a case study is performed to demonstrate how an appropriate path loss model will be selected depending on the frequency range, building type, walls and floors.