A system-level simulation framework for performance evaluation of ultra-dense wireless networks

Abstract

: Accurate evaluation of radio access performance is essential for the design and optimization of ultra-dense fifth-generation (5G) networks, where the interactions between multiple users, base stations, and interference sources become highly complex. This paper proposes a comprehensive System-Level Simulation (SLS) framework for assessing the performance of multi-user multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems in indoor hotspot environments, following the standardized 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) InH_B channel model. The proposed framework integrates realistic network-level processes, including user equipment deployment, three-dimensional channel coefficient generation, analog and digital beamforming, link adaptation, and block error rate prediction. Different from conventional SLS studies that often decouple receiver processing, channel state information (CSI) uncertainty, and link abstraction, the proposed framework provides a unified receiver-aware evaluation chain calibrated against 3GPP Phase 2 results. Both Maximal Ratio Combining (MRC) and Interference Rejection Combining (IRC) receivers are implemented to investigate the impact of imperfect CSI on system performance. Extensive simulations demonstrate that the proposed framework provides close agreement with the 3GPP Phase 2 calibration