A Survey on EMF-Aware Mobile Network Planning

Considering electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure from the radio frequency (RF) domain has always been critical in deploying new cellular network technologies. European countries implement strict limits to ensure that a radiating element such as antenna cannot exceed certain threshold vicinity of urban or densely populated areas. Before 5G, these could easily be managed with calculation methods during planning phase, i.e., before physical installation antennas. These previous-generation transmitters act statically, and it is usually simple respect EMF limit values while ensuring adequate quality performance for end-users. Current active systems benefit Massive MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) technologies precise beamforming Time Division Duplex (TDD). employed by 5G enable antennas behave dynamically time space, depending on distribution users applications targeted. This dynamic behaviour, together larger arrays, makes estimation RF-EMFs more complex, leading overestimations. The only solution lower make an compliant output power, which potentially current networks. In future, frequencies multiple deployment points emerge, this overestimation, associated regulations, drastically restrict even prevent communication survey provides overview broad area, looking at global regulatory frameworks then taking case Luxembourg, than most EU countries. It references main available literature applied 4G prior generations focusing potential not yet standardised approaches 5G. perspective changed discuss issues related interest using optimisation approaches. Finally, concludes summarising gaps opportunities EMF-aware solutions.