Macro and micro discontinuous transmission

CROSS REFERENCES

0001The present Application for Patent claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/265,256 by Agarwal et al., entitled “Macro and Micro Discontinuous Transmission,” filed Dec. 9, 2015, assigned to the assignee hereof, and is expressly incorporated by reference herein; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/265,244 by Agarwal, et al., entitled “Macro and Micro Discontinuous Reception,” filed Dec. 09, 2015, assigned to the assignee hereof, and is expressly incorporated by reference herein; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/265,249 by Agarwal, et al., entitled “Receiving on Transmit and Transmitting on Receive,” filed Dec. 09, 2015, assigned to the assignee hereof, and is expressly incorporated by reference herein.

0002The present Application for Patent is related to the following co-pending U.S. Patent Applications: “Macro and Micro Discontinuous Reception,” by Agarwal, et al., having Attorney Docket No. PQ606.01 (81679.1682), filed concurrently herewith, assigned to the assignee hereof, and expressly incorporated by reference herein; and “Receiving on Transmit and Transmitting on Receive” having Attorney Docket No. PQ608.01 (81679.1683), filed concurrently herewith, assigned to the assignee hereof, and expressly incorporated by reference herein.

INTRODUCTION

0003The following relates generally to wireless communication, and more specifically to macro and micro discontinuous transmission (DTX).

0004Wireless communications systems are widely deployed to provide various types of communication content such as voice, video, packet data, messaging, broadcast, and so on. These systems may be capable of supporting communication with multiple users by sharing the available system resources (e.g., time, frequency, and power). Examples of such multiple-access systems include code division multiple access (CDMA) systems, time division multiple access (TDMA) systems, frequency division multiple access (FDMA) systems, and orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) systems.

0005A wireless multiple-access communications system may include a number of base stations, each simultaneously supporting communication for multiple communication devices, which may be otherwise known as user equipment (UE). A UE may transmit a scheduling request (SR) to indicate to a base station that it has uplink (UL) data to transmit. In some cases, SR transmissions may be transmitted during periodic intervals, which may be independent of UL traffic activity. These intervals may introduce latency for UL transmissions when UL activity is high, and monitoring them may increase power consumption and processing complexity on the base station side when activity is low.

SUMMARY

0006A wireless device may establish an uplink (UL) discontinuous transmission (DTX) configuration. An UL grant may be received during an on duration of the DTX configuration, and the wireless device may transmit data during a transmission opportunity based at least in part on the UL grant. In some case, the device may transmit a request for UL transmission (RULT) during the on duration, and the grant may be based at least in part on the RULT. In some cases, the wireless device may, additionally or alternatively, receive an indication of a subsequent transmission opportunity. Prior to the subsequent transmission opportunity a dynamic on duration may be used to transmit a RULT or receive an UL grant. The wireless device may then transmit during the additional transmission opportunity if UL data is available.

0007A method of wireless communication is described. The method may include receiving during an active duration, an indication of an opportunity to request uplink (UL) transmission, identifying an opportunity to request UL transmission based at least in part on the indication and transmitting on UL resources during the opportunity to request UL transmission. An apparatus for wireless communication is described. The apparatus may include means for receiving during an active duration, an indication of an opportunity to request uplink (UL) transmission, means for an opportunity to request UL transmission based at least in part on the indication and means for transmitting on UL resources during the opportunity to request UL transmission.

0008A further apparatus is described. The apparatus may include a processor, memory in electronic communication with the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions may be operable to cause the processor to receive during an active duration, an indication of an opportunity to request uplink (UL) transmission, identify an opportunity to request UL transmission based at least in part on the indication and transmit on UL resources during the opportunity to request UL transmission.

0009A non-transitory computer readable medium for wireless communication is described. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may include instructions to cause a processor to receive during an active duration, an indication of an opportunity to request uplink (UL) transmission, identify an opportunity to request UL transmission based at least in part on the indication and transmit on UL resources during the opportunity to request UL transmission.

0010In some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above, the active duration includes an active duration of a DTX configuration. In some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above, the active duration includes an active duration of a discontinuous reception (DRX) configuration. In some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above, the identifying of the opportunity to request UL transmission may be based at least in part on a network load, a scheduling condition, a latency tolerance, a traffic profile, a gap size request by a UE or any combination thereof. In some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above, the transmitting on the UL resources includes transmitting a request for UL transmission (RULT). In some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above, the transmitting on the UL resources includes transmitting UL data or control at a time instance identified by the indication. In some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above, the DTX configuration may be based at least in part on a discontinuous reception (DRX) configuration, a DTX configuration for one or more neighboring UEs, or both.

0011Some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above may further include processes, features, means, or instructions for receiving an UL grant during an on duration of the DTX configuration. Some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above may further include processes, features, means, or instructions for transmitting UL data based at least in part on the UL grant, the indication of an opportunity to request UL transmission may be received following the transmission of the UL data.

0012In some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above, the on duration may be semi-statically determined based at least in part on the DTX configuration. Some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above may further include processes, features, means, or instructions for transmitting a RULT during the on duration, the UL grant may be transmitted based at least in part on the RULT.

0013Some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above may further include processes, features, means, or instructions for receiving an UL grant during an on duration of the DRX configuration, and transmitting UL data based at least in part on the UL grant, the indication of an opportunity to request UL transmission may be received following the transmission of the UL data.

0014In some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above, the on duration may be semi-statically determined based at least in part on the DRX configuration. Some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above may further include processes, features, means, or instructions for transmitting a RULT during the on duration, the UL grant may be transmitted based at least in part on the RULT. Some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above may further include processes, features, means, or instructions for transitioning to a short cycle of the DTX configuration based at least in part on the indication of opportunity to request UL transmission. Some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above may further include processes, features, means, or instructions for transitioning from a short cycle of a DTX configuration to a long cycle of a DTX configuration based at least in part on one or more of a determination that an inactivity timer has expired, the UL transmission opportunity indication, or a beginning of a subsequent long cycle of a DTX configuration, or any combination thereof

0015Some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above may further include processes, features, means, or instructions for transitioning from a short cycle of a DTX configuration to a long cycle of a DTX configuration based at least in part on one or more of a determination that an inactivity timer has expired, the UL transmission opportunity indication, or a beginning of a subsequent long cycle of a DTX configuration, or any combination thereof.

0016Some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above may further include processes, features, means, or instructions for determining that no data may be available for transmission during the identified opportunity to request UL transmission. Some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above may further include processes, features, means, or instructions for refraining from transmitting during the identified opportunity based at least in part on the determining. In some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above, the indication of opportunity to request UL transmission includes an opportunity associated with a different radio access technology (RAT).

0017A method of wireless communication is described. The method may include identifying a transmission opportunity for a UE, transmitting an UL transmission opportunity indication to the UE based at least in part on the identified transmission opportunity and receiving an UL transmission from the UE during the transmission opportunity.

0018An apparatus for wireless communication is described. The apparatus may include means for identifying a transmission opportunity for a UE, means for transmitting an UL transmission opportunity indication to the UE based at least in part on the identified transmission opportunity and means for receiving an UL transmission from the UE during the transmission opportunity.

0019A further apparatus is described. The apparatus may include a processor, memory in electronic communication with the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions may be operable to cause the processor to identify a transmission opportunity for a UE, transmit an UL transmission opportunity indication to the UE based at least in part on the identified transmission opportunity and receive an UL transmission from the UE during the transmission opportunity.

0020A non-transitory computer readable medium for wireless communication is described. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may include instructions to cause a processor to identify a transmission opportunity for a UE, transmit an UL transmission opportunity indication to the UE based at least in part on the identified transmission opportunity and receive an UL transmission from the UE during the transmission opportunity.

0021Some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above may further include processes, features, means, or instructions for transmitting an UL grant during an on duration of a DTX configuration established with the UE, the UL transmission may be received based at least in part on the UL grant. In some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above, the on duration may be semi-statically determined based at least in part on the DTX configuration.

0022Some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above may further include processes, features, means, or instructions for receiving a request for UL transmission (RULT) during the on duration, the transmitting of the UL grant may be based at least in part on the RULT. In some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above, the on duration may be scheduled based at least in part on a DRX configuration, a DTX configuration for one or more neighboring UEs, or both. In some examples of the method, apparatus, or non-transitory computer-readable medium described above, the transmission opportunity may be identified based at least in part on a network load, a scheduling condition, a latency tolerance, a traffic profile, or any combination thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> illustrates an example of a wireless communications system that supports DTX in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> illustrates an example of a wireless communications system that supports DTX in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> illustrates an example of a DTX configuration that supports predefined and dynamic on durations in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> illustrates an example of a process flow in a system that supports DTX configurations with predefined and dynamic on durations in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 through 7</figref> show block diagrams of a wireless device that supports DTX configurations with predefined and dynamic on durations in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> illustrates a block diagram of a system including a UE that supports macro and micro DTX in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9 through 11</figref> show block diagrams of a wireless device that supports macro and micro DTX in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> illustrates a block diagram of a system including a network device that supports macro and micro DTX in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure; and

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 13 through 17</figref> illustrate methods that supports macro and micro DTX in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

0032A wireless device may use a discontinuous transmission (DTX) cycle to enable the efficient use of battery power and reduce latency for UL transmissions. After a radio resource control (RRC) connection has been established between a base station and a user equipment (UE), a UE may enter a sleep state when not actively communicating. The DTX cycle may determine how frequently the UE wakes up to transmit uplink (UL) data. In some cases, efficient use of battery power and reducing latency for UL transmissions may be utilized by performing dynamic allocation of UE UL TXOPs. The network can enable low latency on UL data by monitoring transmission of a request for uplink transmission (RULT) when UEs are active and not monitoring for RULTs when the UEs are asleep. In some cases, a regularly scheduled DTX on duration or transmission opportunity (e.g., an on duration or transmission opportunity associated with a DTX sleep period) may, additionally or alternatively, be used to schedule a dynamic DTX on duration or transmission opportunity (e.g., an on duration or transmission opportunity associated with a DTX sleep period).

0033In some examples, a UE may wake up for an on duration of the DRX configuration to receive an UL resource grant for a transmission opportunity (TO). In some cases, the on duration may, additionally or alternatively, be used to transmit a RULT, and the UL grant may be based at least in part on the scheduling request. A UE may, additionally or alternatively, receive a signal from a base station indicating when the next on duration and TO will occur. In some cases, the UE receives, during an active duration, an indication of an opportunity to request UL transmission. The active duration may include a discontinuous transmission DTX configuration or a discontinuous reception DRX configuration. The UE may then identify an opportunity to request UL transmission based at least in part on the indication. The opportunity to request UL transmission may be based at least in part on a network load, a scheduling condition, a latency tolerance, a traffic profile, a gap size request by the UE or any combination thereof In some cases, the UE may then determine when to transmit data signals (either control data or user data) based at least in part on the time (e.g., opportunity) indicated in the downlink (DL) signal. On durations may be pre-defined (e.g., based at least in part on the DTX configuration) or dynamically allocated. In some cases, the DTX cycle may include both a semi-statically configured on duration for periodic UL transmissions as well as dynamically allocated on durations.

0034In some cases, an UL DTX may enable a base station to sleep when the UE has no active traffic, while allowing the UEs to transmit data more frequently when it is active. For instance, during a TO, a base station may, additionally or alternatively, indicate a subsequent TO during the same DTX cycle. That is, a TO message may include a parameter specifying an amount of time between receiving the message and the beginning of a subsequent on duration. The UE may then remain in a sleep mode for a period of time before the subsequent data may be transmitted.

0035In some examples UEs may transmit a gap size request indicating a desired sleep duration between TOs. Base stations may schedule an on duration dynamically based at least in part on the request from UE or other factors (e.g., network load, scheduling delays, latency requirements, traffic profile, etc.). In some cases, the configuration on duration periods or TOs may be scheduled to coincide with DRX active durations. Overlap between DRX and DTX occasions may increase UE power savings. Additionally or alternatively, different UE on durations that are pre-defined and dynamically allocated may be overlapped for network power savings. In some cases, on durations may enable scaling to a large number of Machine-Type-Communication (MTC) devices.

0036The present DTX-DRX system described herein can enable low latency on UL data by monitoring transmission of a request for uplink transmission (RULT) when UEs are active and not monitoring for RULTs when the UEs are asleep. Further the DTX-DRX system described herein can perform a regularly scheduled DTX on duration or transmission opportunity (e.g., an on duration or transmission opportunity associated with a DTX sleep period) that may, additionally or alternatively, be used to schedule a dynamic DTX on duration or transmission opportunity (e.g., an on duration or transmission opportunity associated with a DTX sleep period).

0037Aspects of the disclosure are initially described in the context of a wireless communication system. Additionally or alternatively, examples are provided of a DTX configuration using inactivity intervals between active durations. Aspects of the disclosure are further illustrated by and described with reference to apparatus diagrams, system diagrams, and flowcharts that relate to macro and micro DTX.

0038<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> illustrates an example of a wireless communication system <b>100</b>, in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure. The wireless communication system <b>100</b> may include network devices <b>105</b>, UEs <b>115</b>, and a core network <b>130</b>. Wireless communication system <b>100</b> may support dynamic DTX configurations to enable reduced UL latency and reduced power consumption. For example, wireless communication system <b>100</b> may support both regularly scheduled DTX on durations or transmission opportunities (i.e., associated with a DTX sleep period) and dynamic DTX on durations or transmission opportunities (i.e., associated with a DTX sleep period).

0039The core network <b>130</b> may provide user authentication, access authorization, tracking, Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity, and other access, routing, or mobility functions. At least some of the network devices <b>105</b> (e.g., network device <b>105</b>-<i>a</i>, which may be an example of an eNB or a base station, or network device <b>105</b>-<i>b</i>, which may be an example of an access node controller (ANC)) may interface with the core network <b>130</b> through backhaul links <b>132</b> (e.g., S1, S2, etc.) and may perform radio configuration and scheduling for communication with the UEs <b>115</b>. In various examples, the network devices <b>105</b>-<i>b </i>may communicate, either directly or indirectly (e.g., through core network <b>130</b>), with each other over backhaul links <b>134</b> (e.g., X1, X2, etc.), which may be wired or wireless communication links.

0040Each network device <b>105</b>-<i>b </i>may, additionally or alternatively, communicate with a number of UEs <b>115</b> through a number of other network devices <b>105</b>-<i>c</i>, where network device <b>105</b>-<i>c </i>may be an example of a smart radio head. In alternative configurations, various functions of each network device <b>105</b> may be distributed across various network devices <b>105</b> (e.g., radio heads and access network controllers) or consolidated into a single network device <b>105</b> (e.g., a base station).

0041A macro cell may cover a relatively large geographic area (e.g., several kilometers in radius) and may allow unrestricted access by UEs <b>115</b> with service subscriptions with a network provider. A small cell may include a lower-powered radio head or base station, as compared with a macro cell, and may operate in the same or different frequency band(s) as macro cells. Small cells may include pico cells, femto cells, and micro cells according to various examples. A pico cell may cover a relatively smaller geographic area and may allow unrestricted access by UEs <b>115</b> with service subscriptions with a network provider. A micro cell and/or a femto cell, additionally or alternatively, may cover a relatively small geographic area (e.g., a home) and may provide restricted access by UEs <b>115</b> having an association with the femto cell (e.g., UEs in a closed subscriber group (CSG), UEs for users in the home, and the like). An eNB for a macro cell may be referred to as a macro eNB. An eNB for a small cell may be referred to as a small cell eNB, a pico eNB, a femto eNB or a home eNB. An eNB may support one or multiple (e.g., two, three, four, and the like) cells (e.g., component carriers).

0042The wireless communication system <b>100</b> may support synchronous or asynchronous operation. For synchronous operation, the network devices <b>105</b>-<i>a </i>and/or network devices <b>105</b>-<i>c </i>may have similar frame timing, and transmissions from different network devices <b>105</b>-<i>a </i>and/or network devices <b>105</b>-<i>c </i>may be approximately aligned in time. For asynchronous operation, the network devices <b>105</b>-<i>a </i>and/or network devices <b>105</b>-<i>c </i>may have different frame timings, and transmissions from different network devices <b>105</b>-<i>a </i>and/or network devices <b>105</b>-<i>c </i>may not be aligned in time. The techniques described herein may be used for either synchronous or asynchronous operations.

0043The communication networks that may accommodate some of the various disclosed examples may be packet-based networks that operate according to a layered protocol stack. In the user plane, communications at the bearer or Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer may be IP-based. A Radio Link Control (RLC) layer may in some cases perform packet segmentation and reassembly to communicate over logical channels. A Medium Access Control (MAC) layer may perform priority handling and multiplexing of logical channels into transport channels. The MAC layer may, additionally or alternatively, use Hybrid ARQ (HARD) to provide retransmission at the MAC layer to improve link efficiency. In the control plane, the Radio Resource Control (RRC) protocol layer may provide establishment, configuration, and maintenance of an RRC connection between a UE <b>115</b> and a network device <b>105</b>-<i>c</i>, network device <b>105</b>-<i>b</i>, or core network <b>130</b> supporting radio bearers for user plane data. At the Physical (PHY) layer, transport channels may be mapped to physical channels.

0044The UEs <b>115</b> may be dispersed throughout the wireless communication system <b>100</b>, and each UE <b>115</b> may be stationary or mobile. A UE <b>115</b> may, additionally or alternatively, include or be referred to by those skilled in the art as a mobile station, a subscriber station, a mobile unit, a subscriber unit, a wireless unit, a remote unit, a mobile device, a wireless device, a wireless communications device, a remote device, a mobile subscriber station, an access terminal, a mobile terminal, a wireless terminal, a remote terminal, a handset, a user agent, a mobile client, a client, or some other suitable terminology. A UE <b>115</b> may be a cellular phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a wireless modem, a wireless communication device, a handheld device, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a cordless phone, a wireless local loop (WLL) station, a IoE device, or the like. A UE may be able to communicate with various types of network devices <b>105</b>-<i>a</i>, network devices <b>105</b>-<i>c</i>, base stations, access points, or other network devices, including macro eNBs, small cell eNBs, relay base stations, and the like. A UE may, additionally or alternatively, be able to communicate directly with other UEs (e.g., using a peer-to-peer (P2P) protocol).

0045The communication links <b>125</b> shown in wireless communication system <b>100</b> may include uplink (UL) channels from a UE <b>115</b> to a network device <b>105</b>-<i>c</i>, and/or downlink (DL) channels, from a network device <b>105</b>-<i>c </i>to a UE <b>115</b>. The downlink channels may, additionally or alternatively, be called forward link channels, while the uplink channels may, additionally or alternatively, be called reverse link channels. Control information and data may be multiplexed on an uplink channel or downlink according to various techniques. Control information and data may be multiplexed on a downlink channel, for example, using Time Division Multiplexing (TDM) techniques, Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM) techniques, or hybrid TDM-FDM techniques. In some examples, the control information transmitted during an active duration of a downlink channel may be distributed between different control regions in a cascaded manner (e.g., between a common control region and one or more UE-specific control regions).

0046One or more of network devices <b>105</b> may include a base station dynamic DTX manager <b>101</b>, which may provide DTX configurations that include a combination of active durations and inactivity intervals. In some examples, the base station dynamic DTX manager <b>101</b> may transmit an UL grant during an on duration of a DTX configuration established with a UE, receive UL data during a first transmission opportunity based at least in part on the UL grant, and transmit an indication of a second transmission opportunity. UEs <b>115</b> may include a dynamic DTX manager <b>102</b>, which may receive an UL grant during an on duration of a DTX configuration, transmit UL data during a first transmission opportunity based at least in part on the UL grant, and receive an indication of a second transmission opportunity.

0047Wireless communication system <b>100</b> may support operation on multiple cells or carriers, a feature which may be referred to as carrier aggregation (CA) or multi-carrier operation. A carrier may, additionally or alternatively, be referred to as a component carrier (CC), a layer, a channel, etc. The terms “carrier,” “component carrier,” “cell,” and “channel” may be used interchangeably herein. A UE <b>115</b> may be configured with multiple downlink CCs and one or more uplink CCs for carrier aggregation. Carrier aggregation may be used with both FDD and Time Division Duplex (TDD) component carriers.

0048In some cases, a wireless communications system may utilize one or more enhanced component carrier(s) (ECC). An ECC may be characterized by one or more features including: flexible bandwidth, variable length TTIs, and modified control channel configuration. In some cases, an ECC may be associated with a carrier aggregation configuration or a dual connectivity configuration (i.e., when multiple serving cells have a suboptimal backhaul link). An ECC may, additionally or alternatively, be configured for use in unlicensed spectrum or shared spectrum (where more than one operator is licensed to use the spectrum). An ECC characterized by flexible bandwidth may include one or more segments that may be utilized by UEs <b>115</b> that may not be capable of monitoring the whole bandwidth or prefer to use a limited bandwidth (e.g., to conserve power).

0049In some cases, an ECC may utilize a variable transmission time interval (TTI) length, which may include use of a reduced or variable symbol duration. In some cases the symbol duration may remain the same, but each symbol may represent a distinct TTI. In some cases an ECC may include multiple hierarchical layers associated with the different TTI lengths. For example, TTIs at one hierarchical layer may correspond to uniform lms subframes, whereas in a second layer, variable length TTIs may correspond to bursts of short duration symbol periods. In some cases, a shorter symbol duration may, additionally or alternatively, be associated with increased subcarrier spacing.

0050Flexible bandwidth and variable TTIs may be associated with a modified control channel configuration (e.g., an ECC may utilize an ePDCCH for DL control information). For example, one or more control channels of an ECC may utilize FDM scheduling to accommodate flexible bandwidth use. Other control channel modifications include the use of additional control channels (e.g., for eMBMS scheduling, or to indicate the length of variable length UL and DL burst(s), or control channels transmitted at different intervals. An ECC may, additionally or alternatively, include modified or additional HARQ related control information.

0051In some cases, a UE <b>115</b> may monitor one of the communication links <b>125</b> continuously for an indication that the UE <b>115</b> may receive data. In other cases (e.g., to conserve power and extend battery life) a UE <b>115</b> may be configured with a DRX cycle. A DRX cycle comprises of an “on duration” when the UE <b>115</b> may monitor for control information (e.g., on PDCCH) and a “DRX sleep period” when the UE <b>115</b> may power down radio components. In some cases, a UE <b>115</b> may be configured with a short DRX cycle and a long DRX cycle. In some cases, a UE <b>115</b> may enter a long DRX cycle if it is inactive for one or more short DRX cycles. The transition between the short DRX cycle, the long DRX cycle and continuous reception may be controlled by an internal timer or by messaging from a network device <b>105</b>.

0052A UE <b>115</b> may receive scheduling messages on physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) during the on duration. While monitoring PDCCH for a scheduling message, the UE <b>115</b> may initiate a “DRX Inactivity Timer”. If a scheduling message is successfully received, the UE <b>115</b> may prepare to receive data and the DRX Inactivity Timer may be reset. When the DRX Inactivity Timer expires without receiving a scheduling message, the UE <b>115</b> may move into a short DRX cycle and may start a “DRX Short Cycle Timer”. When the DRX Short Cycle Timer expires, the UE <b>115</b> may resume a long DRX cycle.

0053In some examples, UE <b>115</b> may transition from a first DTX configuration to a second DTX configuration, the transition may occur upon data transmission by the UE <b>115</b> (i.e., when the UE <b>115</b> receives a grant during the on duration of the first DTX configuration and starts transmitting data) or upon explicit indication from the network (e.g. based at least in part on DL data arrival at the network). Additionally or alternatively, UE <b>115</b> may, additionally or alternatively, transition from the second DTX configuration to the first DTX configuration, the transition may occur upon the expiration of an inactivity timer or the receipt of an indication from the network (e.g. based at least in part on a duration of inactivity).

0054According to the present disclosure, a wireless device such as a UE <b>115</b> may establish an UL DTX configuration. An UL grant may be received from a network device <b>105</b> during an on duration of the DTX configuration, and UE <b>115</b> may transmit data during a transmission opportunity based at least in part on the UL grant. In some cases, the UE <b>115</b> may transmit a request for UL transmission (RULT) during the on duration, and the grant may be based at least in part on the RULT. In some cases, the UE <b>115</b> may, additionally or alternatively, receive an indication of a subsequent transmission opportunity. Prior to the subsequent transmission opportunity a dynamic on duration may be used to transmit a RULT or receive an UL grant. The UE <b>115</b> may then transmit during the additional transmission opportunity if UL data is available.

0055<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> illustrates an example of a wireless communications system <b>200</b> that supports macro and micro DTX. Wireless communications system <b>200</b> may include network device <b>105</b>-<i>d</i>, and UE <b>115</b>-<i>a</i>, which may be examples of the corresponding devices described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>. Wireless communications system <b>200</b> may support dynamic DTX configurations to allow for efficient power use. For example, wireless communication system <b>100</b> may support both regularly scheduled DTX on durations or transmission opportunities (i.e., associated with a DTX sleep period) and dynamic DTX on durations or transmission opportunities (i.e., associated with a DTX sleep period).

0056In wireless communications system <b>200</b>, a wireless device may use a DTX cycle to enable the efficient use of battery power. After an RRC connection <b>205</b> has been established between network device <b>105</b>-<i>d </i>and UE <b>115</b>-<i>a</i>, UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may enter a sleep state when not actively communicating. The DTX cycle may determine how frequently UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>wakes up to transmit UL data. That is, a DTX configuration may include periodic on durations <b>210</b>, during which UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may wake up to receive an UL grant. In some cases, prior to receiving the grant, UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may use the on duration to transmit a RULT, and the grant may be based at least in part on the RULT. A transmission opportunity <b>215</b> may be associated with each on duration <b>210</b>.

0057While an on duration may refer to an initial monitoring period, the total duration that UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>is awake may be referred to as the active duration. The active duration may include the on duration of the DTX cycle and the time that UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>is actively transmitting data. In some cases, the active duration may, additionally or alternatively, include a waiting period while an inactivity timer is running, and time spent waiting for an acknowledgement from transmitted messages. The minimum active duration may be equal to the on duration, and there may be no maximum active duration. In some cases, a DTX may be configured on a per UE basis (as opposed to on a radio bearer basis). That is, a single DTX configuration may be applied to UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>at any time (e.g., all the time, or a particular time).

0058Some communications may take place independent of a DTX configuration. For example, UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may use the first available random access channel (RACH) opportunity to send an UL measurement report. Hybrid automatic repeat request (HARD) operations related to data transmission may, additionally or alternatively, be independent of DTX operation. Thus, UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may wake up to monitor a control channel for any retransmissions and/or acknowledgment/negative acknowledgement (ACK/NACK) signaling regardless of the DRX configuration. In some cases, a timer may be used to limit the time UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>stays awake for a retransmission. In some examples, new transmissions may take place during the active duration, so that when UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>is waiting for a retransmission, it may not have to stay awake during the round trip time (RTT).

0059In some DTX configurations, UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may be further configured with an on duration timer, during which UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may monitor for control messages that include possible data allocations. Some DTX configurations may enable periodic channel quality indicator (CQI) reports to be sent by UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>during the active duration. In some cases, RRC signaling may be used to coordinate periodic CQI reports so that they are sent during the on duration. Additionally, a timer for a timing advance group (TAG) in UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may be used to enable UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>to obtain a timing advance for each TAG.

0060If UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>does not have UL data to transmit during a transmission opportunity, it may re-enter DTX sleep (if allowed by the DTX configuration). The ability to re-enter sleep may, additionally or alternatively, apply to the subframes where UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>has been allocated predefined resources. In some cases, UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may stay awake until the expiration of the inactivity timer, until it no longer has UL data to transmit or until a MAC control message tells UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>to re-enter DTX sleep.

0061The process that UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>follows for re-entering DTX may have different configurations. For example, if a short DTX cycle is configured, UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may first use the short DTX cycle and change to a long DTX cycle following a relatively long period of inactivity. In other cases, UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may follow the long DTX cycle directly.

0062A network may ensure that it is aware of whether UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>remains within a coverage area by requesting that UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>send periodic signals to the network. In wireless networks using carrier aggregation (CA), if UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>is configured with only one serving cell (i.e., a primary cell (PCell)) the DTX associated with CA-enabled wireless systems may be used to determine the cycle for other component carriers. For example, the same DTX operation may be applied to all configured and activated serving cells. In networks using dual connectivity (DC), separate DTX configurations can be applied to a master cell group (MCG) and a secondary cell group (SCG), and group specific DTX operation may be applied to all configured and activated serving cells in the same cell group.

0063UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may engage in both UL and DL communication with network device <b>105</b>-<i>d</i>. For example, UL transmission opportunities may include on durations and be scheduled according to a DTX configuration, and DL transmissions may be scheduled according to a DRX configuration. The DRX and DTX configurations may be coordinated to improve energy efficiency or based at least in part on traffic load considerations.

0064In some cases, The DTX configuration may specify a RULT periodicity. For example, RULT transmissions may be allowed on subframes associated with a DTX on duration <b>210</b> (e.g., predefined on durations). UEs <b>115</b> may follow RULT periodicity even during periods of data activity, which may result in reduced power consumption and increased latency for UL transmissions.

0065For example, UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may wait for an on duration <b>210</b> to transmit a RULT. UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may then receive a grant for a subsequent data transmission during a transmission opportunity <b>215</b>. For example, UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may receive a DL signal from network device <b>105</b>-<i>d </i>indicating when the next on duration <b>210</b> is scheduled. UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may then determine when to transmit data signals (either control data or user data) based at least in part on the time indicated in the DL signal. On durations <b>210</b> may be pre-defined (e.g., based at least in part on DTX cycle) and/or dynamically allocated. In some cases, the DTX cycle may include both a semi-statically configured on duration for periodic UL transmissions as well as dynamically allocated on durations.

0066During an on duration when UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>is scheduled to transmit data, network device <b>105</b>-<i>d </i>may, additionally or alternatively, indicate a subsequent on duration <b>210</b> during the same DTX cycle or that overlaps with a subsequent DRX cycle. That is, a DTX on duration message may include a parameter specifying an amount of time between receiving the message and the beginning of a subsequent on duration. UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may then remain in a sleep mode for a period of time before the subsequent data is transmitted.

0067In some examples, UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>may transmit a gap size request indicating a desired sleep duration between on durations <b>210</b>. Network device <b>105</b>-<i>d </i>may then schedule an on duration <b>210</b> dynamically based at least in part on the signal from UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>or other factors (e.g., network load, scheduling delays, latency requirements, traffic profile, etc.). In some cases, the DTX configuration and the on duration periods may be scheduled to coincide with DRX active durations. Overlap between DRX and DTX occasions may increase UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>power savings. Additionally or alternatively, different UE <b>115</b>-<i>a </i>on durations <b>210</b> that are pre-defined and dynamically allocated may be overlapped for network power savings. In some cases, on durations <b>210</b> may enable scaling to a large number of Machine-Type-Communication (MTC) devices.

0068<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> illustrates an example of a DTX configuration <b>300</b> that supports macro and micro DTX. In some cases, DTX configuration <b>300</b> may represent aspects of techniques performed by a UE <b>115</b> or network device <b>105</b> as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-2</figref>. DTX configuration <b>300</b> may be an example of an inactivity interval between active durations of a DTX cycle, the active duration may include an initial on duration, an indication of an opportunity to request UL transmission (i.e., a transmission opportunity), or both.

0069After an RRC connection is established between a UE <b>115</b> and a network device <b>105</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may enter a DTX configuration <b>300</b>. A UE <b>115</b> may wake up during an on duration <b>310</b>-<i>a </i>of DTX configuration <b>300</b> and, if no UL transmissions are forthcoming from the UE <b>115</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may go to sleep until a subsequent on duration <b>310</b> (i.e., during a DTX sleep period). In some examples, at the subsequent on duration <b>310</b> the UE <b>115</b> may have data to transmit, and may transmit a RULT <b>305</b> to a network device <b>105</b>. A network device <b>105</b> may then transmit an UL grant <b>315</b> indicating the UE <b>115</b> may transmit. In some cases, a network device <b>105</b> may transmit the UL grant <b>315</b> without receiving a RULT <b>305</b>. The UE <b>115</b> may subsequently transmit data <b>320</b> during the transmission opportunity <b>325</b>. Following the transmission opportunity <b>325</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may enter an inactivity interval <b>300</b> (i.e., a DTX sleep period). In some cases, the data <b>320</b> may include a gap size request related to the inactivity interval <b>330</b>, during which the UE <b>115</b> may not transmit following the completion of the transmission opportunity <b>325</b>.

0070A network device <b>105</b> may transmit a second transmission opportunity indication (e.g., <b>335</b>) to the UE <b>115</b>, indicating that a dynamic on duration <b>310</b>-<i>b </i>may be available to the UE <b>115</b> after the inactivity interval <b>330</b>. In some examples, the presence or time period of the dynamic on duration <b>310</b>-<i>b </i>may be determined based at least in part on a network load, a scheduling condition, a latency tolerance, a traffic profile, a gap size request by the UE or any combination thereof.

0071In some cases, UE <b>115</b> may transmit a RULT during the dynamic on duration <b>310</b>-<i>b </i>following the inactivity interval <b>330</b>. Network device <b>105</b> may then transmit an UL grant, indicating the UE <b>115</b> may transmit. The UE <b>115</b> may subsequently transmit data <b>320</b> during a subsequent transmission opportunity. In some cases, an active duration <b>335</b> of DTX configuration <b>300</b> may include an on duration <b>310</b>, an indication of an opportunity to request UL transmission (i.e., a transmission opportunity <b>325</b>), or both.

0072In some examples, UE <b>115</b> may not transmit a signal to network device <b>105</b> indicating a desired transmission time period. Network device <b>105</b> may then transmit a DTX message to UE <b>115</b> indicating a pre-defined on duration schedule. In some cases, if a UE <b>115</b> does not have data available for transmission, it may not send a RULT during an on duration <b>210</b> and remain in a state of DTX.

0073<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> illustrates an example of a process flow <b>400</b> for macro and micro DRX in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. Process flow <b>400</b> may include network device <b>105</b>-<i>e </i>and UE <b>115</b>-<i>a</i>, which may be examples of the corresponding devices described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1-2</figref>.

0074At block <b>405</b>, network device <b>105</b>-<i>e </i>and UE <b>115</b>-<i>b </i>may establish an RRC connection. A DTX configuration may be configured as part of the RRC connection configuration. At block <b>410</b>, UE <b>115</b>-<i>b </i>may begin a DTX cycle.

0075In some cases, at block <b>415</b>, UE <b>115</b>-<i>b </i>may transmit a RULT during the on duration of the DTX configuration, the on duration may be semi-statically determined based at least in part on the DTX configuration. In some cases, UE <b>115</b>-<i>b </i>may receive an indication of a timing of the on duration, transmitting the RULT is based at least in part on the indication of the timing of the on duration. Additionally or alternatively, the on duration may be configured based at least in part on a DRX configuration, a DTX configuration for one or more neighboring UEs, or both.

0076At block <b>420</b>, network device <b>105</b>-<i>e </i>may transmit, and UE <b>115</b>-<i>b </i>may receive, an UL grant during the on duration. In some examples, the UL grant may be an indication of opportunity to request UL transmission for an opportunity associated with a different radio access technology (RAT). For example, the UL grant or the indication includes an indication of a third transmission opportunity, the third transmission opportunity is associated with a different radio access technology (RAT) from the first transmission opportunity and the second transmission opportunity. At block <b>425</b>, UE <b>115</b>-<i>b </i>may transmit UL data during a first transmission opportunity based at least in part on the UL grant (e.g., indication of the opportunity to request UL transmission).

0077At block <b>430</b>, network device may transmit, and UE <b>115</b>-<i>b </i>may receive an indication of a second transmission opportunity (i.e., following a DTX sleep period). As a result, UE <b>115</b>-<i>b </i>may transmit a second RULT for the second transmission opportunity based at least in part on the indication, receive a second UL grant (e.g., indication of the opportunity to request UL transmission) based at least in part on the second RULT, and transmit additional UL data based at least in part on the second UL grant (not shown). In some examples, UE <b>115</b>-<i>b </i>may determine that no data is available for transmission during the second transmission opportunity and refrain from transmitting.

0078In other examples, network device <b>105</b>-<i>e </i>may determine that no RULT has been received for the second transmission opportunity and refrain from transmitting a second UL grant based at least in part on the determination. In some cases, the indication may include a short DTX period, the short DTX period is shorter than a DTX period of the DTX configuration. In some examples, UE <b>115</b>-<i>b </i>may, additionally or alternatively, transmit a gap size request, the second transmission opportunity is determined based at least in part on the gap size request. In some cases, the second transmission opportunity may be determined based at least in part on a network load, a scheduling condition, a latency tolerance, a traffic profile, a gap size request by the UE or any combination thereof.

0079<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> shows a block diagram of a wireless device <b>500</b> that supports macro and micro DTX in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. Wireless device <b>500</b> may be an example of aspects of a UE <b>115</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>. Wireless device <b>500</b> may include receiver <b>505</b>, dynamic DTX manager <b>510</b> and transmitter <b>515</b>. Wireless device <b>500</b> may, additionally or alternatively, include a processor. Each of these components may be in communication with each other.

0080The receiver <b>505</b> may receive information such as packets, user data, or control information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to macro and micro DTX, etc.). Information may be passed on to other components of the device. The receiver <b>505</b> may be an example of aspects of the transceiver <b>825</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>.

0081The dynamic DTX manager <b>510</b> may receive during an active duration, an indication of an opportunity to request uplink (UL) transmission, identify an opportunity to request UL transmission based at least in part on the indication, and transmit on an UL resource during the opportunity to request UL transmission. The dynamic DTX manager <b>510</b> may, additionally or alternatively, be an example of aspects of the dynamic DTX manager <b>805</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>.

0082The transmitter <b>515</b> may transmit signals received from other components of wireless device <b>500</b>. In some examples, the transmitter <b>515</b> may be collocated with a receiver in a transceiver module. For example, the transmitter <b>515</b> may be an example of aspects of the transceiver <b>825</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>. The transmitter <b>515</b> may include a single antenna, or it may include a plurality of antennas.

0083<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> shows a block diagram of a wireless device <b>600</b> that supports macro and micro DTX in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. Wireless device <b>600</b> may be an example of aspects of a wireless device <b>500</b> or a UE <b>115</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1, 2 and 5</figref>. Wireless device <b>600</b> may include receiver <b>605</b>, dynamic DTX manager <b>610</b> and transmitter <b>630</b>. Wireless device <b>600</b> may, additionally or alternatively, include a processor. Each of these components may be in communication with each other.

0084The receiver <b>605</b> may receive information which may be passed on to other components of the device. The receiver <b>605</b> may, additionally or alternatively, perform the functions described with reference to the receiver <b>505</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>. The receiver <b>605</b> may be an example of aspects of the transceiver <b>825</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>.

0085The dynamic DTX manager <b>610</b> may be an example of aspects of dynamic DTX manager <b>510</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>. The dynamic DTX manager <b>610</b> may include transmission opportunity (TXOP) indication component <b>615</b>, TXOP identifying component <b>620</b> and TXOP communication component <b>625</b>. The dynamic DTX manager <b>610</b> may be an example of aspects of the dynamic DTX manager <b>805</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>.

0086The TXOP indication component <b>615</b> may receive a second UL transmission opportunity indication during the transmission opportunity, the second UL transmission opportunity indication corresponds to a second transmission opportunity, and receive an UL transmission opportunity indication. In some cases, the UL transmission opportunity indication identifies the UL resource.

0087The TXOP identifying component <b>620</b> may identify a transmission opportunity based at least in part on the UL transmission opportunity indication. In some cases, the second transmission opportunity is determined based at least in part on a network load, a scheduling condition, a latency tolerance, a traffic profile, or any combination thereof

0088The TXOP communication component <b>625</b> may communicate or refrain from transmitting during a second transmission opportunity, for example, such as transmitting on an UL resource during the transmission opportunity.

0089The transmitter <b>630</b> may transmit signals received from other components of wireless device <b>600</b>. In some examples, the transmitter <b>630</b> may be collocated with a receiver in a transceiver module. For example, the transmitter <b>630</b> may be an example of aspects of the transceiver <b>825</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>. The transmitter <b>630</b> may utilize a single antenna, or it may utilize a plurality of antennas.

0090<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> shows a block diagram of a dynamic DTX manager <b>700</b> which may be an example of the corresponding component of wireless device <b>500</b> or wireless device <b>600</b>. That is, dynamic DTX manager <b>700</b> may be an example of aspects of dynamic DTX manager <b>510</b> or dynamic DTX manager <b>610</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 and 6</figref>. The dynamic DTX manager <b>700</b> may, additionally or alternatively, be an example of aspects of the dynamic DTX manager <b>805</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>.

0091The dynamic DTX manager <b>700</b> may include UL grant component <b>705</b>, UL data component <b>710</b>, RULT component <b>715</b>, DTX cycle transition component <b>720</b>, TXOP indication component <b>725</b>, gap size request component <b>730</b>, TXOP identifying component <b>735</b>, TXOP communication component <b>740</b> and DTX component <b>745</b>. Each of these modules may communicate, directly or indirectly, with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

0092The UL grant component <b>705</b> may receive an UL grant during an on duration of the DTX configuration, and receive a second UL grant based at least in part on the second RULT, UL data is transmitted based at least in part on the second UL grant. In some cases, the on duration is semi-statically determined based at least in part on the DTX configuration. In some cases, an UL grant or the UL transmission opportunity indication comprises an indication of a second transmission opportunity, the second transmission opportunity is associated with a different RAT than the transmission opportunity.

0093The UL data component <b>710</b> may transmit UL data based at least in part on the UL grant, the UL transmission opportunity indication is received following the transmission of the UL data, and determine that no data is available for transmission during the second transmission opportunity.

0094The RULT component <b>715</b> may transmit a RULT during the on duration. In some cases, the UL grant is transmitted based at least in part on the RULT. In further cases, the RULT component <b>715</b> may transmit a second RULT based at least in part on the UL transmission opportunity indication.

0095The DTX cycle transition component <b>720</b> may transition from a long cycle of the DTX configuration to a short cycle of the DTX configuration based at least in part on the UL grant, transition from a long cycle of a DTX configuration to a short cycle of a DTX configuration based at least in part on the UL transmission opportunity indication, and transition from a short cycle of a DTX configuration to a long cycle of a DTX configuration based at least in part on one or more of a determination that an inactivity timer has expired, the UL transmission opportunity indication, or a beginning of a subsequent long cycle of a DTX configuration.

0096The TXOP indication component <b>725</b> may receive a second UL transmission opportunity indication during the transmission opportunity, the second UL transmission opportunity indication corresponds to a second transmission opportunity, and receive an UL transmission opportunity indication.

0097The gap size request component <b>730</b> may transmit a gap size request, the UL transmission opportunity indication is transmitted based at least in part on the gap size request.

0098The TXOP identifying component <b>735</b> may identify a transmission opportunity based at least in part on the UL transmission opportunity indication. The TXOP communication component <b>740</b> may communicate or refrain from transmitting during a transmission opportunity. For example, TXOP communication component <b>740</b> may transmit on an UL resource during the transmission opportunity.

0099The DTX component <b>745</b> may receive an UL transmission opportunity indicated based at least in part on a DTX configuration. In some cases, the DTX configuration may be based at least in part on a DRX configuration, a DTX configuration for one or more neighboring UEs, or both. In some cases, the UL transmission opportunity indication is received during an active duration of a DRX configuration. In some cases, the UL transmission opportunity indication is received during an active duration of a DTX configuration.

0100<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> shows a diagram of a system <b>800</b> including a device that supports macro and micro DTX in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. For example, system <b>800</b> may include UE <b>115</b>-<i>c</i>, which may be an example of a wireless device <b>500</b>, a wireless device <b>600</b>, or a UE <b>115</b> as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1, 2 and 5 through 7</figref>.

0101UE <b>115</b>-<i>c </i>may, additionally or alternatively, include dynamic DTX manager <b>805</b>, memory <b>810</b>, processor <b>820</b>, transceiver <b>825</b>, antenna <b>830</b> and ECC module <b>835</b>. Each of these modules may communicate, directly or indirectly, with one another (e.g., via one or more buses). The dynamic DTX manager <b>805</b> may be an example of a dynamic DTX manager as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 through 7</figref>.

0102The memory <b>810</b> may include random access memory (RAM) and read only memory (ROM). The memory <b>810</b> may store computer-readable, computer-executable software including instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to perform various functions described herein (e.g., macro and micro DTX, etc.). In some cases, the software <b>815</b> may not be directly executable by the processor but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform functions described herein. The processor <b>820</b> may include an intelligent hardware device, (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a microcontroller, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.)

0103The transceiver <b>825</b> may communicate bi-directionally, via one or more antennas, wired, or wireless links, with one or more networks, as described above. For example, the transceiver <b>825</b> may communicate bi-directionally with a network device <b>105</b> or a UE <b>115</b>. The transceiver <b>825</b> may, additionally or alternatively, include a modem to modulate the packets and provide the modulated packets to the antennas for transmission, and to demodulate packets received from the antennas. In some cases, the wireless device may include a single antenna <b>830</b>. However, in some cases the device may have more than one antenna <b>830</b>, which may be capable of concurrently transmitting or receiving multiple wireless transmissions.

0104The ECC module <b>835</b> may enable operations using ECCs such as communication using shared or unlicensed spectrum, using reduced TTIs or subframe durations, or using a large number of CCs.

0105<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> shows a block diagram of a wireless device <b>900</b> that supports macro and micro DTX in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. Wireless device <b>900</b> may be an example of aspects of a network device <b>105</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>. Wireless device <b>900</b> may include receiver <b>905</b>, network dynamic DTX manager <b>910</b> and transmitter <b>915</b>. Wireless device <b>900</b> may, additionally or alternatively, include a processor. Each of these components may be in communication with each other.

0106The receiver <b>905</b> may receive information such as packets, user data, or control information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to macro and micro DTX, etc.). Information may be passed on to other components of the device. The receiver <b>905</b> may be an example of aspects of the transceiver <b>1225</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>.

0107The network dynamic DTX manager <b>910</b> may identify a transmission opportunity for a UE, transmit an UL transmission opportunity indication to the UE based at least in part on the identified transmission opportunity, and receive an UL transmission from the UE during the transmission opportunity. The network dynamic DTX manager <b>910</b> may, additionally or alternatively, be an example of aspects of the network dynamic DTX manager <b>1205</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>.

0108The transmitter <b>915</b> may transmit signals received from other components of wireless device <b>900</b>. In some examples, the transmitter <b>915</b> may be collocated with a receiver in a transceiver module. For example, the transmitter <b>915</b> may be an example of aspects of the transceiver <b>1225</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>. The transmitter <b>915</b> may include a single antenna, or it may include a plurality of antennas.

0109<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> shows a block diagram of a wireless device <b>1000</b> that supports macro and micro DTX in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. Wireless device <b>1000</b> may be an example of aspects of a wireless device <b>900</b> or a network device <b>105</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1, 2 and 9</figref>. Wireless device <b>1000</b> may include receiver <b>1005</b>, network dynamic DTX manager <b>1010</b> and transmitter <b>1030</b>. Wireless device <b>1000</b> may, additionally or alternatively, include a processor. Each of these components may be in communication with each other.

0110The receiver <b>1005</b> may receive information which may be passed on to other components of the device. The receiver <b>1005</b> may, additionally or alternatively, perform the functions described with reference to the receiver <b>905</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>. The receiver <b>1005</b> may be an example of aspects of the transceiver <b>1225</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>.

0111The network dynamic DTX manager <b>1010</b> may be an example of aspects of network dynamic DTX manager <b>910</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>. The network dynamic DTX manager <b>1010</b> may include TXOP identifying component <b>1015</b>, TXOP communication component <b>1020</b> and TXOP indication component <b>1025</b>. The network dynamic DTX manager <b>1010</b> may be an example of aspects of the network dynamic DTX manager <b>1205</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>.

0112The TXOP identifying component <b>1015</b> may identify a transmission opportunity for a UE. In some cases, the transmission opportunity is identified based at least in part on a network load, a scheduling condition, a latency tolerance, a traffic profile, or any combination thereof.

0113The TXOP communication component <b>1020</b> may a request for UL transmission (RULT) during the on duration, the transmitting of the UL grant is based at least in part on the RULT. The TXOP indication component <b>1025</b> may transmit an UL transmission opportunity indication to the UE based at least in part on the identified transmission opportunity.

0114The transmitter <b>1030</b> may transmit signals received from other components of wireless device <b>1000</b>. In some examples, the transmitter <b>1030</b> may be collocated with a receiver in a transceiver module. For example, the transmitter <b>1030</b> may be an example of aspects of the transceiver <b>1225</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>. The transmitter <b>1030</b> may utilize a single antenna, or it may utilize a plurality of antennas.

0115<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> shows a block diagram of a network dynamic DTX manager <b>1100</b> which may be an example of the corresponding component of wireless device <b>900</b> or wireless device <b>1000</b>. That is, network dynamic DTX manager <b>1100</b> may be an example of aspects of network dynamic DTX manager <b>910</b> or network dynamic DTX manager <b>1010</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9 and 10</figref>. The network dynamic DTX manager <b>1100</b> may, additionally or alternatively, be an example of aspects of the network dynamic DTX manager <b>1205</b> described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>.

0116The network dynamic DTX manager <b>1100</b> may include a request uplink transmission (RULT) component <b>1105</b>, UL grant component <b>1110</b>, gap size request component <b>1115</b>, TXOP identifying component <b>1120</b>, TXOP communication component <b>1125</b> and TXOP indication component <b>1130</b>. Each of these modules may communicate, directly or indirectly, with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

0117The RULT component <b>1105</b> may receive request for UL transmission (RULT) during the on duration, the transmitting of the UL grant is based at least in part on the RULT.

0118The UL grant component <b>1110</b> may transmit an UL grant during an on duration of a DTX configuration established with the UE. In some cases, the UL transmission is received based at least in part on the UL grant. In some cases, the on duration is semi-statically determined based at least in part on the DTX configuration. In some cases, the on duration is scheduled based at least in part on a DRX configuration, a DTX configuration for one or more neighboring UEs, or both.

0119The gap size request component <b>1115</b> may receive a gap size request. In some cases, a transmission opportunity is identified based at least in part on the gap size request.

0120The TXOP identifying component <b>1120</b> may identify a transmission opportunity for a UE. In some cases, the transmission opportunity is identified based at least in part on a network load, a scheduling condition, a latency tolerance, a traffic profile, or any combination thereof.

0121The TXOP communication component <b>1125</b> may receive an UL transmission from the UE during the UL transmission opportunity. The TXOP indication component <b>1130</b> may transmit an UL transmission opportunity indication to the UE based at least in part on the identified transmission opportunity.

0122<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> shows a diagram of a wireless system <b>1200</b> including a device configured that supports macro and micro DTX in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. For example, wireless system <b>1200</b> may include network device <b>105</b>-<i>g</i>, which may be an example of a wireless device <b>900</b>, a wireless device <b>1000</b>, or a network device <b>105</b> as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1, 2 and 9 through 11</figref>. Network device <b>105</b>-<i>g </i>may, additionally or alternatively, include components for bi-directional voice and data communications including components for transmitting communications and components for receiving communications. For example, network device <b>105</b>-<i>g </i>may communicate bi-directionally with one or more UEs <b>115</b>.

0123Network device <b>105</b>-<i>g </i>may, additionally or alternatively, include network dynamic DTX manager <b>1205</b>, memory <b>1210</b>, processor <b>1220</b>, transceiver <b>1225</b>, antenna <b>1230</b>, base station communications module <b>1235</b> and network communications module <b>1240</b>. Each of these modules may communicate, directly or indirectly, with one another (e.g., via one or more buses). The network dynamic DTX manager <b>1205</b> may be an example of a network dynamic DTX manager as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9 through 11</figref>.

0124The memory <b>1210</b> may include RAM and ROM. The memory <b>1210</b> may store computer-readable, computer-executable software including instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to perform various functions described herein (e.g., macro and micro DTX, etc.). In some cases, the software <b>1215</b> may not be directly executable by the processor but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform functions described herein. The processor <b>1220</b> may include an intelligent hardware device, (e.g., a CPU, a microcontroller, an ASIC, etc.)

0125The transceiver <b>1225</b> may communicate bi-directionally, via one or more antennas, wired, or wireless links, with one or more networks, as described above. For example, the transceiver <b>1225</b> may communicate bi-directionally with a network device <b>105</b> or a UE <b>115</b>. The transceiver <b>1225</b> may, additionally or alternatively, include a modem to modulate the packets and provide the modulated packets to the antennas for transmission, and to demodulate packets received from the antennas. In some cases, the wireless device may include a single antenna <b>1230</b>. However, in some cases the device may have more than one antenna <b>830</b>, which may be capable of concurrently transmitting or receiving multiple wireless transmissions.

0126The base station communications module <b>1235</b> may manage communications with other network device <b>105</b>, and may include a controller or scheduler for controlling communications with UEs <b>115</b> in cooperation with other network devices <b>105</b>. For example, the base station communications module <b>1235</b> may coordinate scheduling for transmissions to UEs <b>115</b> for various interference mitigation techniques such as beamforming or joint transmission. In some examples, base station communications module <b>1235</b> may provide an X2 interface within an LTE/LTE-A wireless communication network technology to provide communication between network devices <b>105</b>.

0127The network communications module <b>1240</b> may manage communications with the core network (e.g., via one or more wired backhaul links). For example, the network communications module <b>1240</b> may manage the transfer of data communications for client devices, such as one or more UEs <b>115</b>.

0128<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> shows a flowchart illustrating a method <b>1300</b> for macro and micro DTX in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of method <b>1300</b> may be implemented by a device such as a UE <b>115</b> or its components as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>. For example, the operations of method <b>1300</b> may be performed by the dynamic DTX manager as described herein. In some examples, the UE <b>115</b> may execute a set of codes to control the functional elements of the device to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the UE <b>115</b> may perform aspects the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

0129At block <b>1305</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may receive during an active duration, an indication of an opportunity to request UL transmission as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1305</b> may be performed by the TXOP indication component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>.

0130At block <b>1310</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may identify an opportunity to request UL transmission based at least in part on the indication as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1310</b> may be performed by the TXOP identifying component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>.

0131At block <b>1315</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may transmit on UL resources during the opportunity to request the UL transmission as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1315</b> may be performed by the TXOP communication component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>.

0132<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> shows a flowchart illustrating a method <b>1400</b> for macro and micro DTX in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of method <b>1400</b> may be implemented by a device such as a UE <b>115</b> or its components as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>. For example, the operations of method <b>1400</b> may be performed by the dynamic DTX manager as described herein. In some examples, the UE <b>115</b> may execute a set of codes to control the functional elements of the device to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the UE <b>115</b> may perform aspects the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

0133At block <b>1405</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may receive an UL grant during an on duration of the DTX configuration as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1405</b> may be performed by the UL grant component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>.

0134At block <b>1410</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may transmit UL data based at least in part on the UL grant, the indication of an opportunity to request the UL transmission is received following the transmission of the UL data during an active duration of a DTX configuration as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1410</b> may be performed by the UL data component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>.

0135At block <b>1415</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may receive during an active duration, an indication of an opportunity to request UL transmission as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some cases, the UL transmission opportunity indication is received during an active duration of a DTX configuration . In some examples, the operations of block <b>1415</b> may be performed by the TXOP indication component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>.

0136At block <b>1420</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may identify an opportunity to request UL transmission based at least in part on the indication as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1420</b> may be performed by the TXOP identifying component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>.

0137At block <b>1425</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may transmit on UL resources during the opportunity to request UL transmission as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1425</b> may be performed by the TXOP communication component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>.

0138<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> shows a flowchart illustrating a method <b>1500</b> for macro and micro DTX in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of method <b>1500</b> may be implemented by a device such as a UE <b>115</b> or its components as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>. For example, the operations of method <b>1500</b> may be performed by the dynamic DTX manager as described herein. In some examples, the UE <b>115</b> may execute a set of codes to control the functional elements of the device to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the UE <b>115</b> may perform aspects the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

0139At block <b>1505</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may transmit a request for UL transmission (RULT) during the on duration, the UL grant is transmitted based at least in part on the RULT as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1505</b> may be performed by the RULT component <b>715</b> as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>.

0140At block <b>1510</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may receive an UL grant during an on duration of the DTX configuration as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1510</b> may be performed by the UL grant component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>.

0141At block <b>1515</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may transmit UL data based at least in part on the UL grant, the indication of an opportunity to request UL transmission is received following the transmission of the UL data as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1515</b> may be performed by the UL data component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>.

0142At block <b>1520</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may receive during an active duration, an indication of an opportunity to request UL transmission as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some cases, the UL transmission opportunity indication is received during an active duration of a DTX configuration. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1520</b> may be performed by the TXOP indication component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>.

0143At block <b>1525</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may identify an opportunity to request UL transmission based at least in part on the indication as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1525</b> may be performed by the TXOP identifying component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>.

0144At block <b>1530</b>, the UE <b>115</b> may transmit on UL resources during the opportunity to request UL transmission as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1530</b> may be performed by the TXOP communication component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>.

0145<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> shows a flowchart illustrating a method <b>1600</b> for macro and micro DTX in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of method <b>1600</b> may be implemented by a device such as a network device <b>105</b> or its components as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>. For example, the operations of method <b>1600</b> may be performed by the network dynamic DTX manager as described herein. In some examples, the network device <b>105</b> may execute a set of codes to control the functional elements of the device to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the network device <b>105</b> may perform aspects the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

0146At block <b>1605</b>, the network device <b>105</b> may identify a transmission opportunity for a UE as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. A transmission opportunity may include, but is not limited to, an indication of an opportunity for the UE to request UL transmission. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1605</b> may be performed by the TXOP identifying component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10 and 11</figref>.

0147At block <b>1610</b>, the network device <b>105</b> may transmit an UL transmission opportunity indication to the UE based at least in part on the identified transmission opportunity as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1610</b> may be performed by the TXOP indication component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10 and 11</figref>.

0148At block <b>1615</b>, the network device <b>105</b> may receive an UL transmission from the UE during the transmission opportunity as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1615</b> may be performed by the TXOP communication component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10 and 11</figref>.

0149<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> shows a flowchart illustrating a method <b>1700</b> for macro and micro DTX in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of method <b>1700</b> may be implemented by a device such as a network device <b>105</b> or its components as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>. For example, the operations of method <b>1700</b> may be performed by the network dynamic DTX manager as described herein. In some examples, the network device <b>105</b> may execute a set of codes to control the functional elements of the device to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the network device <b>105</b> may perform aspects the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

0150At block <b>1705</b>, the network device <b>105</b> may transmit an UL grant during an on duration of a DTX configuration established with the UE. In some cases, the UL transmission is received based at least in part on the UL grant as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1705</b> may be performed by the UL grant component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10 and 11</figref>.

0151At block <b>1710</b>, the network device <b>105</b> may identify a transmission opportunity for a UE as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1710</b> may be performed by the TXOP identifying component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10 and 11</figref>.

0152At block <b>1715</b>, the network device <b>105</b> may transmit an UL transmission opportunity indication to the UE based at least in part on the identified transmission opportunity as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1715</b> may be performed by the TXOP indication component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10 and 11</figref>.

0153At block <b>1720</b>, the network device <b>105</b> may receive an UL transmission from the UE during the transmission opportunity as described above with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 through 4</figref>. In some examples, the operations of block <b>1720</b> may be performed by the TXOP communication component as described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10 and 11</figref>.

0154It should be noted that these methods describe possible implementation, and that the operations and the blocks may be rearranged or otherwise modified such that other implementations are possible. In some examples, aspects from two or more of the methods may be combined. For example, aspects of each of the methods may include blocks or aspects of the other methods, or other blocks or techniques described herein. Thus, aspects of the disclosure may provide for macro and micro DTX.

0155The description herein is provided to enable a person skilled in the art to make or use the disclosure. Various modifications to the disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other variations without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thus, the disclosure is not to be limited to the examples and designs described herein but is to be accorded the broadest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

0156The functions described herein may be implemented in hardware, software executed by a processor, firmware, or any combination thereof If implemented in software executed by a processor, the functions may be stored on or transmitted over as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Other examples and implementations are within the scope of the disclosure and appended claims. For example, due to the nature of software, functions described above can be implemented using software executed by a processor, hardware, firmware, hardwiring, or combinations of any of these. Features implementing functions may, additionally or alternatively, be physically located at various positions, including being distributed such that portions of functions are implemented at different physical (PHY) locations. Additionally or alternatively, as used herein, including in the claims, “or” as used in a list of items (for example, a list of items prefaced by a phrase such as “at least one of” or “one or more”) indicates an inclusive list such that, for example, a list of at least one of A, B, or C means A or B or C or AB or AC or BC or ABC (i.e., A and B and C).

0157Computer-readable media includes both non-transitory computer storage media and communication media including any medium that facilitates transfer of a computer program from one place to another. A non-transitory storage medium may be any available medium that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer. By way of example, and not limitation, non-transitory computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), compact disk (CD) ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other non-transitory medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code means in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer, or a general-purpose or special-purpose processor. Additionally or alternatively, any connection is properly termed a computer-readable medium. For example, if the software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then the coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition of medium. Disk and disc, as used herein, include CD, laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk and Blu-ray disc where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above are, additionally or alternatively, included within the scope of computer-readable media.

0158Techniques described herein may be used for various wireless communications systems such as CDMA, TDMA, FDMA, OFDMA, single carrier frequency division multiple access (SC-FDMA), and other systems. The terms “system” and “network” are often used interchangeably. A CDMA system may implement a radio technology such as CDMA2000, Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (UTRA), etc. CDMA2000 covers IS-2000, IS-95, and IS-856 standards. IS-2000 Releases 0 and A are commonly referred to as CDMA2000 1X, 1X, etc. IS-856 (TIA-856) is commonly referred to as CDMA2000 1xEV-DO, High Rate Packet Data (HRPD), etc. UTRA includes Wideband CDMA (WCDMA) and other variants of CDMA. A TDMA system may implement a radio technology such as (Global System for Mobile communications (GSM)). An OFDMA system may implement a radio technology such as Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), Evolved UTRA (E-UTRA), IEEE 802.11, IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), IEEE 802.20, Flash-OFDM, etc. UTRA and E-UTRA are part of Universal Mobile Telecommunications system (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS)). 3GPP Long Term Evolution (LTE) and LTE-advanced (LTE-A) are new releases of UMTS that use E-UTRA. UTRA, E-UTRA, UMTS, LTE, LTE-a, and GSM are described in documents from an organization named “3rd Generation Partnership Project” (3GPP). CDMA2000 and UMB are described in documents from an organization named “3rd Generation Partnership Project 2” (3GPP2). The techniques described herein may be used for the systems and radio technologies mentioned above as well as other systems and radio technologies. The description herein, however, describes an LTE system for purposes of example, and LTE terminology is used in much of the description above, although the techniques are applicable beyond LTE applications.

0159In LTE/LTE-A networks, including networks described herein, the term evolved node B (eNB) may be, for example, used to describe the base stations. The wireless communications system or systems described herein may include a heterogeneous LTE/LTE-A network in which different types of eNBs provide coverage for various geographical regions. For example, each eNB or base station may provide communication coverage for a macro cell, a small cell, or other types of cell. The term “cell” is a 3GPP term that can be used to describe a base station, a carrier or component carrier (CC) associated with a base station, or a coverage area (e.g., sector, etc.) of a carrier or base station, depending on context.

0160Base stations may include or may be referred to by those skilled in the art as a base transceiver station, a radio base station, an access point (AP), a radio transceiver, a NodeB, eNodeB (eNB), Home NodeB, a Home eNodeB, or some other suitable terminology. The geographic coverage area for a base station may be divided into sectors making up a portion of the coverage area. The wireless communications system or systems described herein may include base stations of different types (e.g., macro or small cell base stations). The UEs described herein may be able to communicate with various types of base stations and network equipment including macro eNBs, small cell eNBs, relay base stations, and the like. There may be overlapping geographic coverage areas for different technologies. In some cases, different coverage areas may be associated with different communication technologies. In some cases, the coverage area for one communication technology may overlap with the coverage area associated with another technology. Different technologies may be associated with the same base station, or with different base stations.

0161A macro cell, may for example, cover a relatively large geographic area (e.g., several kilometers in radius) and may allow unrestricted access by UEs with service subscriptions with the network provider. A small cell is a lower-powered base stations, as compared with a macro cell, that may operate in the same or different (e.g., licensed, unlicensed, etc.) frequency bands as macro cells. Small cells may include pico cells, femto cells, and micro cells according to various examples. A pico cell, for example, may cover a small geographic area and may allow unrestricted access by UEs with service subscriptions with the network provider. A femto cell may, additionally or alternatively, cover a small geographic area (e.g., a home) and may provide restricted access by UEs having an association with the femto cell (e.g., UEs in a closed subscriber group (CSG), UEs for users in the home, and the like). An eNB for a macro cell may be referred to as a macro eNB. An eNB for a small cell may be referred to as a small cell eNB, a pico eNB, a femto eNB, or a home eNB. An eNB may support one or multiple (e.g., two, three, four, and the like) cells (e.g., CCs). A UE may be able to communicate with various types of base stations and network equipment including macro eNBs, small cell eNBs, relay base stations, and the like.

0162The wireless communications system or systems described herein may support synchronous or asynchronous operation. For synchronous operation, the base stations may have similar frame timing, and transmissions from different base stations may be approximately aligned in time. For asynchronous operation, the base stations may have different frame timing, and transmissions from different base stations may not be aligned in time. The techniques described herein may be used for either synchronous or asynchronous operations.

0163The DL transmissions described herein may, additionally or alternatively, be called forward link transmissions while the UL transmissions may, additionally or alternatively, be called reverse link transmissions. Each communication link described herein including, for example, wireless communication system <b>100</b> and <b>200</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref> may include one or more carriers, each carrier may be a signal made up of multiple sub-carriers (e.g., waveform signals of different frequencies). Each modulated signal may be sent on a different sub-carrier and may carry control information (e.g., reference signals, control channels, etc.), overhead information, user data, etc. The communication links described herein (e.g., communication links <b>125</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) may transmit bidirectional communications using frequency division duplex (FDD) (e.g., using paired spectrum resources) or TDD operation (e.g., using unpaired spectrum resources). Frame structures may be defined for FDD (e.g., frame structure type 1) and TDD (e.g., frame structure type 2).

0164Thus, aspects of the disclosure may provide for macro and micro DTX. It should be noted that these methods describe possible implementations, and that the operations and the blocks may be rearranged or otherwise modified such that other implementations are possible. In some examples, aspects from two or more of the methods may be combined.

0165The various illustrative blocks and modules described in connection with the disclosure herein may be implemented or performed with a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an ASIC, an field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may, additionally or alternatively, be implemented as a combination of computing devices (e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration). Thus, the functions described herein may be performed by one or more other processing units (or cores), on at least one integrated circuit (IC). In various examples, different types of ICs may be used (e.g., Structured/Platform ASICs, an FPGA, or another semi-custom IC), which may be programmed in any manner known in the art. The functions of each unit may, additionally or alternatively, be implemented, in whole or in part, with instructions embodied in a memory, formatted to be executed by one or more general or application-specific processors.

0166In the appended figures, similar components or features may have the same reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label by a dash and a second label that distinguishes among the similar components. If just the first reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components having the same first reference label irrespective of the second reference label.