Evaluation Metrics and Simulation Tools for 5G Millimeter-Wave Networks

Recently, mmWave spectrum bands have attracted a lot of attention as they can be exploited by 5G to achieve high data rates and support ultrahigh traffic density. Since there are already systems allocated and operating in mmWave bands, it is critical to evaluate emerging spectrum sharing paradigms and enabling technologies for successful realization of 5G. One of the key challenges is the availability of evaluation metrics and tools to provide technical information enabling evidence-based policy discussions on the allocation and management of mmWave spectrum. In this article, we present and discuss evaluation metrics and simulation tools for 5G mmWave systems from a regulator's perspective. In particular, we propose a systematic approach to develop meaningful spectrum sharing metrics and demonstrate simulation tools suitable for assessing coverage in 5G mmWave small cell networks.