SpyGlass: a wireless sensor network visualizer

ABSTRACT

In this paper we present a modular and extensible visualization framework for wireless sensor networks. These networks have typically no means of visualizing their internal state, sensor readings or computational results. Visualization is therefore a key issue to develop and operate these networks. Data emitted by individual sensor nodes is collected by gateway software running on a machine in the sensor network. It is then passed on via TCP/IP to the visualization software on a potentially remote machine. Visualization plug-ins can register to different data types, and visualize the information using a flexible multi-layer mechanism that renders the information on a canvas. Developers can easily adapt existing or develop new custom tailored plug-ins for their specific visualization needs and applications.

REFERENCES

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  C. Computer Systems Organization
  C.2 COMPUTER-COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
      C.2.3 Network Operations
          Subjects: Network monitoring

Additional Classification:
  C. Computer Systems Organization
  C.2 COMPUTER-COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
      C.2.1 Network Architecture and Design
          Subjects: Wireless communication; Network topology
  C.3 SPECIAL-PURPOSE AND APPLICATION-BASED SYSTEMS
      Subjects: Real-time and embedded systems

  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
      D.2.5 Testing and Debugging

  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.2 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
      I.2.9 Robotics
          Subjects: Sensors
  I.6 SIMULATION AND MODELING
      I.6.8 Types of Simulation
          Subjects: Visual

General Terms:
Experimentation, Measurement, Performance

Keywords:
debugging, embedded computing, experimentation, measurement, performance, sensor networks, smart dust, visualization