Dynamic spectrum allocation in a multi-radio environment: concept and algorithm

This paper discusses the concepts of dynamic spectrum allocation (DSA) as an alternative to fixed allocation schemes. The paper investigates a scenario where a block of spectrum is shared between a unicast system, such as terrestrial UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunication System), and a broadcast system, such as DVB-T (Digital Video Broadcasting-Terrestrial), each with different time-varying loads. The concept behind DSA is explained, and the potential for gains in spectrum efficiency discussed. An algorithm has been developed and presented to investigate the potential of DSA. The results show that even a simplified algorithm can produce gains for the radio networks in the dynamic allocation scheme. Several issues are raised with relation to improvements to the fairness and effectiveness of the allocation scheme.