Random Frequency Hopping (FH) is a key feature of GSM networks that allows for capacity enhancement. The increased co-channel interference experienced in networks with tight frequency reuse schemes can be mitigated by adopting frequency hopping. Frequency hopping diversifies the interference signals over sparse transmitted bursts. This effect is called Interference Diversity. Interference Diversity allows the Forward Error Correcting codes (FEC) to easily correct the corrupted bits. Thus, frequency hopping allows the network operator to use a tighter frequency reuse scheme without exhibiting higher levels of co-channel interference.
Discontinuous Transmission (DTX) is another interference mitigation method that utilizes the user’s silence frames to reduce the transmitted power, while Power Control (PC) links the transmitted handset power with its relative distance from the Base Station (BTS). In this work, we study the impact of random FH, DTX and PC on the Spectral Capacity of GSM cellular networks by means of combined link level and system level simulation. It is shown that a spectral capacity gain is obtained in a 3/9 reuse scheme that deploys PC, DTX and FH compared to a conventional 4/12 reuse scheme.