Measurement Study on 5G NSA Architecture over Fading Channel

Abstract

The 5G NR network with the Non-Standalone (NSA) architecture aims to advance with regard to throughput. When compared to fourth-generation mobile communication (4G LTE), the 5G has a higher data exchange capability through the gNB and the UE (User Equipment). For evaluation and optimization, it is necessary to carry out practical studies on the behaviour of the system in different environmental conditions, subject to attenuation processes, such as large-scale fading (Shading) and small-scale fading (Multipath propagation). This work has analysed the effect of the MCS (Modulation and Coding Scheme) variation on Throughput/BLER for, initially, a channel degraded by default AWGN, then the analysis extends to the multipath fading effect, which emulates more realistically a mobile communication network. The analysis confirmed the need for robust decision process algorithms in terms of MCS switching to maintain adequate data rates according to the requirement of each scenario with specific QoS (Quality of service), considering both 64 QAM and 256 QAM. The throughput degradation effect was more evident in higher-order modulations due to the higher probability of error inherent in the symbol arrangement. This study can be a key for understanding and developing huge modulation and coding schemes for fifth generation communications.