Centralized Versus Heuristic-Based Distributed Channel Allocation to Minimize Packet Transmission Delay for Multiband Relay Networks

To address the high capacity versus limited coverage tradeoff in Fifth Generation (5G) networks, in this letter, we introduce a relay-assisted network leveraging multiple frequency bands simultaneously. First, we formulate an optimal heterogeneous band/channel allocation strategy to multiple relays. Then, we elucidate the infeasibility of this centralized approach resulting in increased latency. As a solution, we propose a heuristic-based, distributed channel allocation approach whereby each relay node is able to make localized decision regarding the best channel allocation over heterogeneous bands. Adaptability analysis and computer-based simulation results demonstrate that our proposal outperforms the conventional method with much reduced relay latency.