A Synchronization Protocol for OFDM-based Asynchronous Next Generation Access Networks

To generate multiple orthogonal carriers in an OFDM (orthogonal frequency division multiplexing) symbol, an FFT (fast Fourier transform) and IFFT (inverse FFT) pair is utilized at the transmitter and the receiver, respectively. Thus, it may be difficult for an MN (mobile node) to reconstruct signals received from several BSs (base stations), when single FFT module is used. Moreover, when a GPS (global position system) is not supported, ICI (inter carrier interference) may occur over multi-cell environments. This paper introduces a synchronization protocol for OFDM-based asynchronous networks without using GPS. The network protocol is designed to perform the plug & access radio configuration for next generation networks.