An Optimization Model for Allocation of Network Users in Macro-femto Networks - An Approach based on Energy Efficiency and Quality of Service

The femtocell concept aims to combine fixed-line broadband access with mobile telephony using the deployment of low-cost, low-power third generation (3G) base stations in the subscribers' homes. While the self-configuration of femtocells is a plus, it can limit the quality of users and reduce the efficiency of the network, based on outdated allocation parameters such as signal power level. To this end, this paper presents a proposal for optimized allocation of users on a macro-femto network, aiming to minimize the consumption of battery without affecting the quality of service of applications. Markov Decision Process Theory is used to model the system, which is modeled as observed by the user’s side. So, when the user needs to connect to make a voice call or a data call, the mobile phone has to decide in which network to connect, using the information of number of connections, the quality of service parameters and the signal power level of each network.