Evaluating the Performance of Real Time Videoconferencing in Ad Hoc Networks Through Emulation

ABSTRACT

The validation of new video protocols and applications for mobile ad hoc networks in a real environment is an important task. In this work we present Castadiva, a test-bed architecture that allows validating software solutions for ad hoc networks using low-cost, off-the-shelf devices and open source software. We use this tool to test a videocall using the OLSR protocol in different scenarios, varying the number of hops between the caller and the receiver.The results obtained in this paper show that, for an ad hoc network with a large number of hops, the quality of videocalls suffers a significant degradation even in the absence of mobility.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.4 INFORMATION SYSTEMS APPLICATIONS
      H.4.3 Communications Applications
          Subjects: Computer conferencing, teleconferencing, and videoconferencing

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

General Terms:
Design, Performance, Reliability

Keywords:
Castadiva, MANETs, VideoConference, Test-Bed