Packet Error Rate(PER)-Based Cross-Layer Optimization of CDMA Networks

In CDMA systems, outer loop power control (OLPC) determines the target value of SNR at the receiver, mostly by using look-up tables to map bit error rates (BERs) to SNRtargets. In this contribution, transmission delay and packet loss rate constraints in the data link layer (DLL) are invoked in order to determine the optimum outer loop SNR-target setpoint analytically, according to the number of active users in cell. Optimality is, in this sense, the maximization of system throughput. Using the optimum SNR-target, the optimal spreading factor is determined. Subsequently, the joint optimization of outer loop SNR-target and variable spreading factor (VSF), at the physical(PHY)-layer, with truncated automatic repeat request (ARQ) error control mechanism at the data link layer are proposed. Our scheme is compared with 'constant SNR-target' and 'PHY-layer based variable SNR-target' cases under continuous power and rate variation to show (analytically and by simulations) the achievable gain through the coupling of physical and data link layers parameters.