Overview of 3GPP LTE-advanced carrier aggregation for 4G wireless communications

To satisfy the ever increasing demand for higher throughput and data rates, wireless communication systems need to operate in wider bandwidths. 3GPP LTE-Advanced with carrier aggregation enables operators to maximally and optimally utilize their available spectrum resources for increased data rates and user experience while reducing their incurred OPEX and CAPEX. This article provides a tutorial overview of 3GPP LTE-Advanced with carrier aggregation as specified in Rel-10 including deployment scenarios of interest, main design features, PHY/MAC procedures, and potential enhancements for future standard releases.