Optimizing Scheduling Techniques for Enhanced Carrier Aggregation in LTE-Advanced Networks

Abstract

In this study, we investigate resource scheduling strategies for the downlink in LTE-Advanced networks, focusing specifically on systems that employ Carrier Aggregation (CA) with multiple Component Carriers (CCs). Effective scheduling is crucial in CA-enabled LTE-Advanced to maximize efficiency and support diverse user needs. We examine three conventional scheduling schemes—Joint User Scheduling (JUS), Separated Random User Scheduling (SRUS), and Separated Burst-Level Scheduling (SBLS). Although JUS yields superior performance, it is complex and does not factor in Quality of Experience (QoE) metrics. In contrast, SRUS and SBLS, while less computationally intensive, underutilize CA and fall short in resource allocation fairness. To overcome these limitations, we propose a new scheduling scheme, Quality of Service and Channel Scheduling (QSCS), which dynamically adjusts CC allocations at the burst level based on user service priority and signal quality. Simulation results show that QSCS achieves throughput similar to JUS while selecting optimal CCs based on Quality of Service (QoS) and channel parameters, resulting in enhanced QoE compared to other methods. This proposed approach demonstrates significant potential for improving resource allocation and user satisfaction in LTE-Advanced networks.