Spectral efficiency and EMF exposure in cellular and cell-free massive MIMO networks : a comparative analysis

Details

Supervisors

Oestges, Claude ; Vandendorpe, Luc

Faculty

Ecole polytechnique de Louvain

Degree label

Master [120] : ingénieur civil électricien, à finalité spécialisée

Abstract

In an era where Quality of Service (QoS) demands are on the rise, the increasing number of connected devices highlights the need for more consistent coverage. The growth in connectivity needs is particularly evident with the widespread use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Cell-free networks appear to be a promising solution to meet the growing demand for seamless and reliable communication. However, despite their potential advantages, these innovative networks raise concerns, especially regarding potential health risks linked to EMF exposure. This master thesis focuses on comparing cell-free networks with existing cellular networks, assessing their spectral efficiency and exposure to EMF through numerical simulations. Both of these crucial aspects are examined using various statistical metrics for a comprehensive evaluation. The system models used to simulate these networks are carefully defined, aiming to ensure consistency. However, some limitations associated with comparing these two types of networks are also discussed to ensure an informed interpretation of the obtained results.