Toward an energy reduction in mobile relays: Combining MIMO and multi-mode

The current generation of mobile terminals can communicate on multiple modes using several antennas. However, their energy consumption remains a critical parameter. In this paper, we explore the combination of multiple communication modes and MIMO as a possible way to reduce the energy consumption of both the terminals and the network. We propose a realistic energy model for the PHY layer of a MIMO and multi-mode terminal, taking into account the MAC layer behaviour. We show that the combination of MIMO and multi-mode provides a solution to reduce global energy consumption.