Wireless Ad Hoc Networks: Design Principles and Low Power Operation

Abstract

Seamless communication between computing devices is an essential part of the new world of ubiquitous computing. To achieve the concept of a “disappearing computer,” it is necessary to establish reliable and simple communication principles to enhance the usability and the efficiency of the ubiquitous computing devices. It is also important to use wireless links and to enable devices to quickly create and manage networks ad hoc, without any need for network infrastructure. This chapter presents the design principles for such networks. The main features of these networks are analysed, including the principles of medium access control and routing, along with the current standardisation and development activities. Special attention is paid to the low power design of wireless ad hoc networks. Low power design is important because of the predicted self-organisation, small size, and extended scalability of ubiquitous computing networks. In such an environment, it is important to extend the network lifetime by deploying power sensitive network algorithms and protocols.