The Role of Ad Hoc Networks in Mobility
A. Readhead, S. Trill · Institution of Engineering and Technology eBooks · 2004
Initially, we believe ad hoc networks will be used primarily for access, but when people get used to living in 'wireless bubbles', they may well use the freedom 'tetherless technologies' give them in new and exciting ways - there will be no reason not to. Wireless devices are becoming smaller, lighter, cheaper and faster. If these devices perform useful functions, people will want to use them at home and on the move. Wireless ad hoc networks offer the connectivity these devices will need. The mobility comes at no extra cost. Of course the mobility will be limited to the wireless bubble, but this need not be too restrictive. If the wireless technology is based on the international IEEE802.11 standards, mobile devices that work in one bubble will work in them all. The bubbles will not have 100% geographical coverage but then neither do mobile telephones or DSL. We expect wireless bubbles to develop where enough people want them and provide adequate coverage for most users. If so, this could have interesting implications for fixed and wireless network operators serving this market.