Implementation and emulation of distributed clustering protocols for wireless sensor networks
Cheng Li, Liangjie He · 2007
Clustering is an effective technique for improving the energy efficiency and prolonging the network lifetime of a Wireless Sensor Network (WSN). Although it has been widely investigated, most of the studies are based simplified channel conditions and simple computer simulations using tools such as NS-2 and OPNET. It is highly desired that the algorithms proposed for WSN are studied in real network environment and using practical devices so that the obtained results provide a better guideline for real applications. In this paper, we study the implementation of distributed clustering protocols in WSNs. The performance of two popular schemes, HEED and HIDCA protocols, are studied using an emulation approach. It is further verified through our experimental work using Mica2 sensor devices from the Crossbow Technology Inc. Our results demonstrate the working of clustering algorithms in practical small scale networked sensor systems. It also confirms the superior performance of the HEED algorithm over HIDCA in terms of power consumption and network lifetime.