Controlling handoff performance using signal strength prediction schemes and hysteresis algorithms for different shadowing environments

In cellular mobile communication networks, a handoff request is usually made based on the past signal strength measurements taken at regular time intervals. There are two schemes used in making a handoff request, (i) a prediction scheme, and (ii) a handoff strategy which is usually a hysteresis scheme. We investigate the performance when these schemes are applied in combination. In particular, we discuss whether a single scheme alone or a combination of these two schemes is required for optimum performance. We also investigate the dependence of these schemes on each other. Results under various shadowing conditions, mobile speeds and cell layouts are presented.