Efficient deafness avoidance in wireless ad hoc and sensor networks with directional antennas

ABSTRACT

Using directional antennas in wireless ad hoc networks can significantly improve network performance. However, the deafness problem greatly limits the network performance. This paper thoroughly investigates two types of deafness problems, one of which is reported for the first time in this paper. This paper also proposes a new MAC scheme, namely DMAC-DA, to address both types of deafness problems. Simulation results show that deafness adversely affects the network throughput and that DMAC-DA alleviates the deafness problem and greatly improves the network performance. This paper also reveals that the second kind of deafness is more serious than the first.

REFERENCES

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  C. Computer Systems Organization
  C.2 COMPUTER-COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
      C.2.1 Network Architecture and Design
          Subjects: Wireless communication

Additional Classification:
  C. Computer Systems Organization
  C.2 COMPUTER-COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
      C.2.1 Network Architecture and Design
          Subjects: Network communications; Distributed networks

General Terms:
Algorithms, Design, Performance, Standardization

Keywords:
deafness avoidance, directional antennas, medium access control, wireless ad hoc and sensor networks