A distributed access algorithm for cellular radio systems with channel partitioning

Previous results in distributed power control and distributed channel access have demonstrated the possibility of high-capacity cellular radio networks without central control. However, these distributed algorithms may not converge completely in practical systems where the rate of channel variation (due to mobility, handoff, or interfering users entering or leaving the channel) approaches the rate at which power levels can be accurately measured and adjusted. We propose a new channel partitioning technique in which both dynamically allocated and fixed assignment channels are employed. This technique enables rapid distributed access that is inherently fair. Simulation results indicate that it is robust in responding to user mobility and handoff while yielding significant capacity gains over traditional fixed assignment systems.