Handoff requirements for a third generation DS-CDMA air interface

Code division multiple access is now regarded by many as the most viable air interface for future third generation mobile radio systems. The mixed cell architecture required to support these systems imposes a number of problems for network planners, and not least is the support of mobility. Handoff is an essential feature of this, as well as being fundamental to the successful operation of any direct sequence (DS) CDMA system. The paper addresses handoff aspects of a DS-CDMA air interface, focusing in particular on the requirements for third generation systems.<>