NETWORK NODE AND METHOD

摘要

A method, a network node and a computer program product are disclosed. The method of controlling an operating state of small cell base stations, said operating state comprising one of a non-sleeping state in which a small cell base station is operable to support communications with user equipment and sleeping state in which a small cell base station is inoperable to support communications with user equipment, comprises the steps of: determining whether a predetermined event has been experienced by at least one small cell base station of a group of small cell base stations and, if so, instructing at least a sub-group comprising a plurality of small cell base stations of said group of small cell base stations to transition between said non-sleeping state and said sleeping state. Such an approach helps to optimize energy savings made by small cell base stations within the network, whilst ensuring that appropriate levels of service are maintained for user equipment.