On simplifying WINNER II channel model for MIMO OTA performance evaluation

The development of MIMO over-the-air (OTA) test methodology is an ongoing activity in 3GPP RAN4, CTIA and EU COST Action 2100. In this paper, the focus is on the anechoic chamber approach, which uses a uniform circular array of probe antennas to replicate directional channels for the device-under-test at the array center. In particular, we study in simulation the complexity requirements of implementing the WINNER II clustered delay line (CDL) model in RF using off-the-shelf RF components. Our results reveal that a significant reduction in complexity of the CDL model can be achieved, while keeping the change in both ergodic and outage capacities under 10% relative to the full model. This suggests that it is both feasible and cost effective in implementing state-of-the-art directional channel models in RF for MIMO OTA performance evaluations.