Performance increase through the use of multiple sub-carriers in WSN
Fei Qin, Yang Yang, John Mitchell · 2009
In this paper we propose a cross-layer design of a Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) to increase communications efficiency. A simple and low cost wireless physical layer using multiple carrier frequencies is proposed, utilising pulse shaping to increase the system's resistance to carrier frequency variations. Experiments which emulate the physical layer show that the BER performance is still acceptable for frequency offsets within ±1/4 Δf. In contrast to estimating and correcting such offsets, this solution greatly decrease the complex of the RF chip which is a requirement for low-cost WSNs. Simulation results show that such a system could increase the network performance in terms of throughput, delivery time, as well as power efficiency when used in a CSMA style MAC layer. In particular, the proposed system produces most benefit in heavy traffic loading which shows that it is most suitable for data intensive WSN which are required by advanced sensing applications.