Discover the fundamental characteristics of ultra-dense networks with this comprehensive text. Featuring a consistent mathematical description of ultra-dense small cell networks while also covering real-world issues such as network deployment, operation and optimization, this book investigates performance metrics of coverage probability and area spectral efficiency (ASE) and addresses the aspects of ultra-dense networks that make them different from current networks. Insightful intuitions, which will assist decision-makers as they migrate their services, are explained and mathematically proven. The book presents the latest review of research outcomes on ultra-dense networks, based on both theoretical analyses and network simulations, includes over 200 sources from 3GPP, the Small Cell Forum, journals and conference proceedings, and covers all other related and prominent topics. This is an ideal reference text for professionals who are dealing with the development, deployment, operation and maintenance of ultra-dense small cell networks, as well as researchers and graduate students in communications.

This detailed, up-to-date introduction to heterogeneous cellular networking introduces its characteristic features, the technology underpinning it and the issues surrounding its use. Comprehensive and in-depth coverage of core topics catalogue the most advanced, innovative technologies used in designing and deploying heterogeneous cellular networks, including system-level simulation and evaluation, self-organisation, range expansion, cooperative relaying, network MIMO, network coding and cognitive radio. Practical design considerations and engineering tradeoffs are also discussed in detail, including handover management, energy efficiency and interference management techniques. A range of real-world case studies, provided by industrial partners, illustrate the latest trends in heterogeneous cellular networks development. Written by leading figures from industry and academia, this is an invaluable resource for all researchers and practitioners working in the field of mobile communications.