Medium access control in mobilead hocnetworks: challenges and solutions
Hongqiang Zhai, Jianfeng Wang, Xiang Chen, Yuguang Michael Fang · Wireless Communications and Mobile Computing · 2006
Abstract Mobilead hocnetworks (MANETs) are useful in environment where fixed network infrastructure is unavailable. To function normally, MANETs demand an efficient and distributed medium access control (MAC) protocol. However, characteristics of MANETs such as radio link vulnerability, mobility, limited power pose great challenges on MAC design. This paper surveys the recent advances in MAC design for MANETs. We first identify the challenges that are facing MAC in MANETs. Then we discuss the proposed MAC schemes according to their design goals, focusing on some critical design issues, and tradeoffs. Finally, we point out some future research directions. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.