Characterization of MIMO propagation channel at 15 GHz for the 5G spectrum

5G systems aim to greatly enhance the data rate as one of its promising features compared to currently available technologies. The high data rate is achieved by the utilization of frequencies above 6 GHz, which provides enough bandwidth for each individual user to support faster transfer rates as compared to currently used Long Term Evolution-Advance (LTE-A). Performance of the wireless systems can be improved by optimizing the channel propagation parameters. In this paper, the potential ability of propagation channel for the large-scale outdoor urban environment is presented by utilizing Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) in the frequency band of 15 GHz. Okumura Hata model is used in rural areas, while microcell path propagation model is used in urban areas as the path loss models. Results have been recorded from multiple simulations concerning the capacity of users to evaluate the cell-edge user throughput, average user throughput, average cell throughput, spectral efficiency and fairness index for different MIMO antenna array. Results are then analyzed and compared to predict the channel behavior for urban, suburban and rural areas. The paper paved the path for 15 GHz to be set as a viable option when considering future 5G networks due to its ability to provide ample amount of throughput due to the diversity of multiple antennas for transmission.