System Spectral Efficiency and Stability of 3G Networks: A Comparative Study

CDMA2000, WCDMA and WiMAX are three widely used 3G technologies. Since they share the same goal, which is to provide broader coverage and higher throughput in 3G networks, an impartial comparison of their performance is indispensable. However, they are based on different design principles and methodologies, which make the comparison challenging. This paper presents a comparative study of these technologies, with focus on system spectral efficiency and stability in 3G networks. Specifically, the paper presents a framework for the comparison based on the common set of configurations adopted by these technologies, which include channel models, system parameters and key algorithms. Through extensive simulations, the system spectral efficiency and stability of CDMA2000 1x EV-DO Rev.A, WCDMA HSDPA/HSUPA and mobile WiMAX are compared. It is found that while WiMAX can provide highest throughput, the two CDMA-based technologies achieve higher system spectral efficiency, especially on the downlink. Regarding system stability, it is observed that CDMA2000 1x EV-DO Rev.A can operate under higher interference levels than WCDMA HSDPA/HSUPA and mobile WiMAX. In addition, the comparison on system spectral efficiency between CDMA2000, WCDMA and WiMAX is also conducted when relevant enhanced technologies, i.e., MIMO and interference cancellation, are adopted. We believe that our work will serve as a cornerstone for a fair comparison between the various technologies for prospective 3G networks.