Integrated optimization of heterogeneous-network management and the elusive role of macrocells

We consider heterogeneous wireless networks in the physical interference model and introduce a new formulation of the mixed-integer nonlinear programming problem that addresses base-station activation and many-to-many associations while minimizing power consumption. We also introduce HetNetGA, a genetic algorithm that can tackle the problem without any approximations. Though unsuitable for practical deployment, HetNetGA enables the investigation of such networks' true possibilities. Results for scenarios involving both macrocells and picocells often align with what is expected, but sometimes are unexpected and essentially point to the need to better understand the role of macrocells in helping provide capacity while remaining energetically advantageous.