Improved LTE macro layer indoor coverage using small cell technologies

This paper disseminates a set of results about Heterogeneous Network field trial experiments conducted in an LTE network at 2.6 GHz and focused on coverage within an office building. Two LTE metro cells deployed in indoor as well as LTE macro cells deployed in outdoor are considered. The later rely on small transmission power levels combined with easiest deployment of small cells. We considered an indoor area covered by one useful metro eNB and one external macro eNB. The second metro cell eNB emit on the same frequency as macro cell to degrade the quality on macro layer to reach typical macro layer radio conditions in the field. Analyzing radio parameters for different configuration we highlight the benefits of using small cells to increase the indoor coverage and the end-user experience.