Deploying AL-FEC protection with online algorithms for multicast services over cellular networks

Reliability control is a key concern on the evolution of mobile multicast services. To this direction, the use of forward error correction (FEC) on the application layer is widely adopted in several mobile multicast standards. FEC is a feedback free error control method, where the transmitter introduces in advance redundant information within the source data to enable receivers recovering arbitrary data erasures. On multicast delivery where retransmission-based error recovery methods are not efficient, the most suitable error control method is the use of application layer forward error correction (AL-FEC) codes. In this work, we introduce novel AL-FEC deployment policies over mobile multicast environments utilizing online algorithms. We aim at the efficient application of AL-FEC protection with RaptorQ codes over multicast delivery in the context of competitive analysis. We provide a competitiveness analysis model of AL-FEC application over mobile multicast environments. Furthermore, we propose two online algorithms adjusting the introduced redundancy of AL-FEC protection according to several FEC encoding parameters and constraints of mobile multicast delivery.     

Application layer forward error correction for multicast streaming over LTE networks

The next step beyond third generation mobile networks is the Third Generation Partnership Project standard, named Long Term Evolution. A key feature of Long Term Evolution is the enhancement of multimedia broadcast and multicast services (MBMS), where the same content is transmitted to multiple users located in a specific service area. To support efficient download and streaming delivery, the Third Generation Partnership Project included an application layer forward error correction (AL‐FEC) technique based on the systematic fountain Raptor code, in the MBMS standard. To achieve protection against packet losses, Raptor codes introduce redundant packets to the transmission, that is, the forward error correction overhead. In this work, we investigate the application of AL‐FEC over MBMS streaming services. We consider the benefits of AL‐FEC for a continuous multimedia stream transmission to multiple users and we examine how the amount of forward error correction redundancy can be adjusted under different packet loss conditions. For this purpose, we present a variety of realistic simulation scenarios for the application of AL‐FEC and furthermore we provide an in‐depth analysis of Raptor codes performance introducing valuable suggestions to achieve efficient use of Raptor codes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

A study of forward error correction for mobile multicast

3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) has standardized the use of forward error correction (FEC) for the provision of reliable data transmission in the mobile multicast framework. This error control method inevitably adds a constant overhead in the transmitted data. However, it is so simple as to meet a prime objective for mobile multicast services; that is scalability to applications with thousands of receivers. In this paper, we present a study on the impact of application layer FEC on mobile multicast transmissions. We examine whether it is beneficial or not, how the optimal code dimension varies based on network conditions, which parameters affect the optimal code selection, and how this can be done. Additionally, we focus on one of the most critical aspects in mobile multicast transmission, which is power control. The evaluation is performed with the aid of a novel scheme that incorporates the properties of an evolved mobile network, as they are specified by the 3GPP. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

The multimedia broadcast/multicast service

This article provides an overview of the multimedia broadcast/multicast service (MBMS) for universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS) networks. We first outline the features of UMTS networks as defined by the 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) in order to provide a background for the discussion to follow. We then present the overall MBMS architecture, the services that it provides to the users and the differences between the broadcast and multicast options. The implementation details of MBMS are explained in terms of the modifications needed to the network, the new signaling procedures required and the impact of MBMS on the radio part of the network. We then describe how the security architecture of UMTS is used to support content protection and key distribution for MBMS groups. We evaluate the prospects of MBMS by comparing it first with IP multicast and then with DVB‐H, considered by many to be the closest competitor of MBMS. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of the technical and business challenges still faced by MBMS. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Cost optimization of MBSFN and PTM transmissions for reliable multicasting in LTE networks

Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems have been specified and designed to accommodate small, high performance, power-efficient, end-user devices. The evolved Multimedia Broadcast/Multicast Service (e-MBMS) feature is introduced by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) as a complement to the existing MBMS service in order to accommodate multicast groups that are interested in receiving the same data. MBMS service is provided by MBMS over a Single Frequency Network (MBSFN) and/or Point-To-Multipoint (PTM) transmission methods. One of the challenges of MBMS is the complete error recovery of the transmitted files, a matter of great importance since the distribution of binary data must result in 100% error-free download. To fulfill this tight requirement, Forward Error Correction (FEC) mechanism has been proposed by 3GPP. In this work, we investigate the reliable multicasting by introducing a transmission method that combines the advantages of MBSFN and PTM transmission methods. We compare several FEC-based file recovery methods and evaluate them against various network parameters in a realistic simulation environment. The comparison is based on a cost-oriented analysis of MBMS service that takes into account the transmission cost over all the interfaces and nodes of the LTE architecture. The simulation results are performed with the aid of a new simulation tool and show that the performance of the file repair schemes depend on the network configuration.     

Cost analysis and efficient radio bearer selection for multicasting over UMTS

Along with the widespread deployment of the Third Generation (3G) cellular networks, the fast‐improving capabilities of the mobile devices, content, and service providers are increasingly interested in supporting multicast communications over wireless networks and in particular over Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS). To this direction, the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) is currently standardizing the Multimedia Broadcast/Multicast Service (MBMS) framework of UMTS. In this paper, we present an overview of the MBMS multicast mode of UMTS. We analytically present the multicast mode of the MBMS and analyze its performance in terms of packet delivery cost under various network topologies, cell types, and multicast users' distributions. Furthermore, for the evaluation of the scheme, we consider different transport channels for the transmission of the multicast data over the UMTS Terrestrial Radio‐Access Network (UTRAN) interfaces. Finally, we propose a scheme for the efficient radio bearer selection that minimizes total packet delivery cost. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

An Efficient Mechanism for UMTS Multicast Routing

In this paper, we present a novel scheme for the multicast transmission of data over Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) networks. Apart from the normal multicast transmission over UMTS, we consider the handling of exceptional cases caused by user mobility scenarios. The proposed scheme is in accordance with the current specifications of the Multimedia Multicast/Broadcast Service (MBMS) defined by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) and introduces minor modifications in the UMTS architecture and the mobility management mechanisms. The proposed scheme is implemented as an ns-2 network simulator module. The performance of the proposed scheme is validated and analyzed through ns-2 simulation experiments. This new module can be employed to investigate various aspects of UMTS multicast. Furthermore, in order to further highlight the contribution of our mechanism, we have implemented two multicast congestion control mechanisms for UMTS and we have measured their performance for MBMS transmissions.     

Multicast Broadcast Services Support in OFDMA-Based WiMAX Systems [Advances in Mobile Multimedia]

Multimedia stream service provided by broadband wireless networks has emerged as an important technology and has attracted much attention. An all-IP network architecture with reliable high-throughput air interface makes orthogonal frequency division multiplexing access (OFDMA)-based mobile worldwide interoperability for microwave access (mobile WiMAX) a viable technology for wireless multimedia services, such as voice over IP (VoIP), mobile TV, and so on. One of the main features in a WiMAX MAC layer is that it can provide'differentiated services among different traffic categories with individual QoS requirements. In this article, we first give an overview of the key aspects of WiMAX and describe multimedia broadcast multicast service (MBMS) architecture of the 3GPP. Then, we propose a multicast and broadcast service (MBS) architecture for WiMAX that is based on MBMS. Moreover, we enhance the MBS architecture for mobile WiMAX to overcome the shortcoming of limited video broadcast performance over the baseline MBS model. We also give examples to demonstrate that the proposed architecture can support better mobility and offer higher power efficiency.     

MBMS及其演进

首先介绍了3GPP的多媒体广播和多播业务(MBMS)标准。借助于MBMS,在蜂窝网络中引入了广播和多播能力。而后,论述了MBMS在3GPP后续版本中的演进,重点关注演进的体系结构和MBSFN的概念,最后给出了结论。     

Exploiting MIMO Technology for Optimal MBMS Power Allocation

In mobile networks, the provision of rich multimedia services, such as Mobile TV, is considered of key importance. To this end, Multimedia Broadcast/Multicast Service (MBMS)—that was introduced in the Release 6 of Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS)—is envisaged to play an instrumental role in the proliferation of mobile market. The reason behind the design of MBMS was the need to provide multiple users with the same data at the same time in 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) cellular networks. Still, MBMS performance is limited by the base stations’ transmission power. As an aftermath, efficient power allocation techniques should be implemented so as to ensure the mass provision of multimedia applications to mobile users. This paper proposes a novel mechanism for efficient radio bearer selection during MBMS transmissions. The proposed mechanism is based on the concept of transport channels combination in any cell of the network. Furthermore, the mechanism exploits the performance enhancements emerged from Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) antennas and manages to efficiently deliver multiple MBMS sessions. The proposed mechanism is thoroughly evaluated and compared with the radio bearer selection mechanisms proposed by 3GPP.     

Design of Systematic Unequal Error Protection Raptor Codes Over Binary Erasure Channels

The third generation partnership project (3GPP) and digital video broadcasting-handheld standards recommend systematic Raptor codes as application-layer forward error correction for reliable transmission of multimedia data. In all previous studies on systematic Raptor codes, equal error protection for all data was considered. However, in many applications, multimedia data requires unequal error protection (UEP) that provides different levels of protection to different parts of multimedia data. In this paper, we propose a new design method for Raptor codes that provide both UEP and systematic properties over binary erasure channels. Numerical results show that the proposed UEP design is effective for reliable multi-level protection.     

Satellite radio interface and radio resource management strategy for the delivery of multicast/broadcast services via an integrated satellite-terrestrial system

A variety of hybrid systems combining third-generation mobile communication networks with broadcast systems have been proposed for the delivery of multimedia broadcast multicast services (MBMS) to mobile users. The article discusses one of these alternatives, which involves the use of a geostationary satellite component for MBMS delivery. In particular, it proposes a radio access scheme for the satellite component of the system that features maximum commonalities with the standardized T-UMTS WCDMA-based interface. The ultimate advantages of this approach are more efficient delivery of MBMS as far as the mobile network operator is concerned. The required adaptations at the interface layers are described, and the radio resource management strategy that fulfills the particular requirements of the satellite system is presented.     

基于MBMS的手机电视技术

多媒体广播组播业务(MBMS)是3GPP Release 6版本中引入的一项重大功能,目的在于节省系统资源,为用户提供广播或者组播的分组数据业务.作为一种具体的MBMS应用,手机电视技术在3G业务中占有重要的地位.文中介绍了多媒体广播和组播技术(MBMS),包括MBMS的网络结构、业务流程以及基于TD-SCDMA的MBMS系统架构,对LTE中的E-MBMS技术进行了初步研究,并从逻辑结构、业务模式和信道结构等方面简单分析了从MBMS到E-MBMS的演进.     

Effective Radio Resource Management for MBMS in UMTS Networks

Broadcast and multicast offer a significant improvement of spectrum utilization, and becomes particularly important where information channels are shared among several users. Mobile cellular environments are expected to evolve with the technological approaches necessary to facilitate the deployment of multimedia services, such as streaming, file download and carousel services. The perspective that video streaming in wireless networks services is an attractive service to end-users has spurred the research in this area. To provide for a video delivery platform in UMTS, the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) addressed this problem with the introduction of the Multimedia Broadcast and Multicast Services (MBMS) in 3GPP Release 6. In this document we analyse several effective radio resource management techniques to provide MBMS, namely, use of non-uniform QAM constellations, multi-code and macro-diversity to guarantee the optimal distribution of QoS depending on the location of mobiles.     

Experimental Analysis and Evaluation of RaptorQ Codes for Video Multicasting Over Wi-Fi

This paper presents a reliable and efficient high quality video streaming solution for use in challenging outdoor environments over Wi-Fi. An application layer forward error correction based on RaptorQ codes was implemented in a practical Wi-Fi based server and client system to enhance reliability. Thus, this paper presents the first detailed analysis on the implementation of RaptorQ codes for streaming high definition video over Wi-Fi. The measurements were performed in central Bristol with parameters such as RaptorQ symbol size, code rate, buffering time and modulation and coding scheme, and user quality of experience based on these parameters was evaluated. For multicast live video streaming it is demonstrated that system performance is mostly dominated by hardware and software limitations on constrained host platforms where the incoming packet rate exceeds the device`s ability to consume the traffic, i.e., Wi-Fi clients are a major source of packet loss, even in ideal channel conditions. Client limitations were found to be a function of modulation and coding schemes and RaptorQ coding parameters. Therefore, the optimum system design parameters such as RaptorQ symbol size, code rate and buffering time with respect to modulation and coding schemes were suggested considering practical limitations from real-world measurements.

     

一种无线视频业务的应用层跨层优化技术研究

在深入分析了仿真结果后,本文发现引入应用层Raptor FEC技术,将在无线传输方面(物理层)带来了最优操作点,在最优操作点及其附近,无线资源的利用率得到进一步的提高,且无需增加发射功率以降低BLER目标值.也就是说,采用同样的发射功率,在应用层使用了Raptor FEC编码技术之后,MBMS业务的覆盖面积可进行较大幅...     

An improved MBMS power counting mechanism towards long term evolution

One of the key objectives of beyond 3rd generation mobile networks is the realization of enhanced end-user experience through the provision of rich multimedia services. Multimedia Broadcast/Multicast Services (MBMS) framework epitomizes the increasing popularity of such applications and is envisaged to play an instrumental role for the Long Term Evolution (LTE) proliferation in mobile market. For exploiting resource efficiency, MBMS specifications consider the Counting Mechanism which decides whether it is more efficient to deliver MBMS multicast traffic over Point-to-Point (PTP) or Point-to-Multipoint (PTM) bearers. However, the necessity to further improve MBMS resource efficiency and integrate new technologies in the frame of LTE stresses the need for an advanced Counting Mechanism. In this work we propose a novel Power Counting Mechanism for efficient selection of MBMS bearers. The proposed mechanism optimally utilizes power resources and exploits broadband characteristics and performance enhancements emerged from Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) antennas used in LTE networks.     

喷泉码在多播传输机制中的应用

首先研究了数字喷泉码优异的前向纠错特性;其次,在IEEE802.16e标准基础上引入了多播广播服务(MBS)小区的概念,给出了MBS小区规划算法;接着,对多种度分布的数字喷泉码应用在多播传输机制中进行仿真和分析,最后得出结论。仿真结果表明,在每包2 000比特、开销20%时,采用Raptor度分布的数字喷泉编码能够保证误码率在0.1%以下,可实现高效率高可靠性的数据传输。多播传输机制中使用数字喷泉码,能够提高接收效率,适应时变信道与异质用户,并实现异步和断续接收。     

An efficient scheme for single-cell point-to-multipoint e-MBMS transmission

多媒体广播多播业务（MBMS）是3GPP-R6版本中定义的一种典型的广播、多播业务。随着技 术的演进,在LTE系统中 提出了增强的MBMS,即e-MBMS业务。针对e-MBMS业务,提出了一种有效的技术解决 方案。该方案可看作下行发射分集、基于DoA的波束赋形与HARQ技术的结合。同时,仿真结 果也表明,该方案相对于单独的发射分集来说能带来显著的性能增益。     

An improved mechanism for multiple MBMS sessions assignment in B3G cellular networks

In Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS), the downlink capacity is limited by the base station transmission power. Therefore, power control plays an important role to minimize the transmitted power shared among unicast and multicast users within a cell. In Multimedia Broadcast/Multicast Service (MBMS), power control targets to the efficient utilization of radio and network resources. However, the expected high demand for such services stresses the need for an efficient scheme, capable of dynamically allocating radio resources to parallel MBMS sessions. This paper proposes a power control mechanism for efficient MBMS session assignment in next generation UMTS networks. The mechanism shares efficiently the available power resources of UMTS base stations to MBMS sessions running in the network. Furthermore, the mechanism is evaluated through several realistic scenarios and the results indicate the ability of the mechanism to utilize efficiently the radio resources and to ensure the service continuity when parallel MBMS services run in the network. Our approach is compared with current 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) approaches, such as these presented in TS 25.346 and in TR 25.922, in order to highlight the enhancements that it provides.