Demo: LabVIEW based framework for prototyping dense LTE networks

Abstract

In the demo, we illustrate the integration aspects of LTE testbed using LabVIEW SISO OFDM Physical layer and open source NS-3 LTE LENA stack. We leverage the NS-3 LENA module, which allows researchers to conduct simulations by emulating large network of base-stations, mobile devices and core network. However, the validity of results produced from such simulations is limited due to the physical layer model and may not accurately reflect the true behavior of densely-deployed LTE networks. Hence, we implemented selected LTE physical channels in LabVIEW to facilitate more realistic emulation of the LTE testbed and integrate it with MAC/higher layers of LENA protocol stack. The main goal of the testbed is to be able to show the artifacts caused in interference limited environment and demonstrate the performance of Enhanced Inter-cell Interference Coordination (eICIC) algorithms proposed by researchers in 3GPP. This demo shows preliminary results and we plan to use this testbed to showcase different aspects of Software Defined Networking (SDN) framework which is used to fine-tune different aspects of dense deployments within EU FP7 CROWD research project.