Performance Evaluation of Multicast Video Distribution Using LTE-A in Vehicular Environments

Application Layer Forward Error Correction (AL-FEC) based on Raptor codes has been employed in Multimedia Broadcast/Multicast Services (MBMS) to improve reliability. This paper considers a cross-layer system based on the latest Raptor Q codes for transmitting high data rate video. Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) channels in a realistic outdoor environment for a user moving at 50kmph in an LTE-A system is considered. A link adaptation model with optimized cross-layer parameters is proposed under different channel conditions and quality of service requirements. The system investigates throughput performance for Spatial Time Block Coding (STBC) and Spatial Multiplexing (SM) MIMO with and without raptor codes. Improvements of up to 4dB SNR are seen by using raptor codes with SM depending upon the channel conditions and chosen Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS). Results also show that at low SNR and low spatial correlation, the performance of AL-FEC with SM is better than STBC even when the user is moving at high speeds.