Showing papers on "Wi-Fi array published in 2001"

Investigating the energy consumption of a wireless network interface in an ad hoc networking environment

Abstract: Energy-aware design and evaluation of network protocols requires knowledge of the energy consumption behavior of actual wireless interfaces. But little practical information is available about the energy consumption behavior of well-known wireless network interfaces and device specifications do not provide information in a form that is helpful to protocol developers. This paper describes a series of experiments which obtained detailed measurements of the energy consumption of an IEEE 802.11 wireless network interface operating in an ad hoc networking environment. The data is presented as a collection of linear equations for calculating the energy consumed in sending, receiving and discarding broadcast and point-to-point data packets of various sizes. Some implications for protocol design and evaluation in ad hoc networks are discussed.

Physical layer driven protocol and algorithm design for energy-efficient wireless sensor networks

Abstract: The potential for collaborative, robust networks of microsensors has attracted a great deal of research attention. For the most part, this is due to the compelling applications that will be enabled once wireless microsensor networks are in place; location-sensing, environmental sensing, medical monitoring and similar applications are all gaining interest. However, wireless microsensor networks pose numerous design challenges. For applications requiring long-term, robust sensing, such as military reconnaissance, one important challenge is to design sensor networks that have long system lifetimes. This challenge is especially difficult due to the energy-constrained nature of the devices. In order to design networks that have extremely long lifetimes, we propose a physical layer driven approach to designing protocols and algorithms. We first present a hardware model for our wireless sensor node and then introduce the design of physical layer aware protocols, algorithms, and applications that minimize energy consumption of the system. Our approach prescribes methods that can be used at all levels of the hierarchy to take advantage of the underlying hardware. We also show how to reduce energy consumption of non-ideal hardware through physical layer aware algorithms and protocols.

Habitat monitoring: application driver for wireless communications technology

Abstract: As new fabrication and integration technologies reduce the cost and size of micro-sensors and wireless interfaces, it becomes feasible to deploy densely distributed wireless networks of sensors and actuators These systems promise to revolutionize biological, earth, and environmental monitoring applications, providing data at granularities unrealizable by other means In addition to the challenges of miniaturization, new system architectures and new network algorithms must be developed to transform the vast quantity of raw sensor data into a manageable stream of high-level data To address this, we propose a tiered system architecture in which data collected at numerous, inexpensive sensor nodes is filtered by local processing on its way through to larger, more capable and more expensive nodesWe briefly describe Habitat monitoring as our motivating application and introduce initial system building blocks designed to support this application The remainder of the paper presents details of our experimental platform

A Survey of Energy Efficient Network Protocols for Wireless Networks

Abstract: Wireless networking has witnessed an explosion of interest from consumers in recent years for its applications in mobile and personal communications. As wireless networks become an integral component of the modern communication infrastructure, energy efficiency will be an important design consideration due to the limited battery life of mobile terminals. Power conservation techniques are commonly used in the hardware design of such systems. Since the network interface is a significant consumer of power, considerable research has been devoted to low-power design of the entire network protocol stack of wireless networks in an effort to enhance energy efficiency. This paper presents a comprehensive summary of recent work addressing energy efficient and low-power design within all layers of the wireless network protocol stack.

System and method for measuring wireless device and network usage and performance metrics

Abstract: Systems and methods for measuring wireless device and wireless network usage and performance metrics are set forth. The system includes at least one wireless device, and data gathering software installed on the wireless device for collecting device parametric data, network parametric data, event data. A control center may receive, store and process said device parametric data, network parametric data, and event data.

An efficient protocol for realizing cooperative diversity in wireless networks

Abstract: We develop two variants of an energy-efficient cooperative diversity protocol that combats fading induced by multipath propagation in wireless networks, The underlying techniques build upon the classical relay channel and related work and exploit space diversity available at distributed antennas through coordinated transmission and processing by cooperating radios. While applicable to any wireless setting, these protocols are particularly attractive in ad-hoc or peer-to-peer wireless networks, in which radios are typically constrained to employ a single antenna. Substantial energy-savings resulting from these protocols can lead to reduced battery drain, longer network lifetime, and improved network performance in terms of, e.g., capacity.

Wireless system protocol for telemetry monitoring

Abstract: A wireless, programmable system for medical monitoring includes a base unit (18) and a plurality of individual wireless, remotely programmable biosensor transceivers (20). The base unit (18) manages the transceivers (20) by issuing registration, configuration, data acquisition, and transmission commands using wireless techniques. Physiologic data from the wireless transceivers (20) are demultiplexed and supplied via a standard interface to a conventional monitor (914) for display. Initialization, configuration, registration, and management routines for the wireless transceivers and the base unit are also described.

Method and system for wireless voice channel/data channel integration

Abstract: A system and method for wireless communication is disclosed. In one embodiment of a method, a user of a wireless device initiates a communication session during which a wireless data session can be triggered from a voice session and a voice session can be triggered from a wireless data session. During the communication session, data is shared between the wireless data channel and the voice channel.

Mobility extended telephone application programming interface and method of use

Abstract: A system and method of for exchanging information between a wireless network and an external system is disclosed. The wireless network detects trigger events related to communications with wireless subscribers. Certain event triggers cause the wireless system to create a message to send to the external system. In response the external system may send information to the wireless system. The wireless system may create messages upon detection of handoff, origination, status, registration or other activity by the wireless subscriber. The invention may also detect trigger events related one mass media broadcasts. An interface translates between the different protocols of the wireless and the external or wireline networks to allow for automatic call redirection. The application can be utilized between many networks and facilitates the utilization of the architecture of a wirelined network and the home location register of the wireless network for various applications on the wireless network.

Wireless communication networks for providing remote monitoring of devices

Abstract: Wireless communication networks for monitoring and controlling a plurality of remote devices are provided. Briefly, one embodiment of a wireless communication network may comprise a plurality of wireless transceivers having unique identifiers. Each of the plurality of wireless transceivers may be configured to receive a sensor data signal from one of the plurality of remote devices and transmit an orginal data message using a predefined wireless communication protocol. The original data message may comprise the corresponding unique identifier and sensor data signal. Each of the plurality of wireless transceivers may be configured to receive the original data message transmitted by one of the other wireless transceivers and transmit a repeated data message using the predefined communication protocol. The repeated data message may include the sensor data signal and the corresponding unique identifier. Furthermore, at least one of the plurality of wireless transceivers may be further configured to provide the original data messages and the repeated data messages to a site controller connected to a wide area network. The site controller may be configured to manage communications between the wireless communication network and a host computer connected to the wide area network.

Wireless Communications and Networks

Abstract: From the Publisher: This is the first guide to wireless technology with the pedagogical breadth, depth, and discipline needed to help both professionals and students master the entire field. Legendary networking author William Stallings presents thorough, up-to-date introductions to every key aspect of wireless communications and networking: technology, architecture, types of wireless networks, design approaches, applications, standards, and more.Stallings begins with the fundamentals of data transmission: signals, channels, analog and digital data transmission, and multiplexing, circuit-switched and packet-switched networks, and the role of protocols such as TCP/IP. With these basics understood, he moves on to the unique components and technologies of wireless networks. The book includes detailed chapters on antennas and propagation; signal encoding techniques; spread spectrum; coding; and error control. Stallings offers in-depth coverage of satellite-based wireless networks; analog, TDMA, CDMA, and 3G cellular; cordless systems; Wireless Local Loop; Mobile IP; and WAP. The book also contains a full section of wireless LANs, including in-depth coverage of IEEE 802.11 and Bluetooth standards. William Stallings' accompanying Web site includes extensive bonus resources, including PDF transparency masters, PowerPoint slides, and book updates.For all students and professionals in the fields of information technology, networking, and data communications — including current and future network designers, implementers, administrators, managers, and customers.

IEEE 802.15.4: a developing standard for low-power low-cost wireless personal area networks

Abstract: A low-rate wireless personal area network, or LR-WPAN, is a network designed for low-cost very-low-power short-range wireless communications. Until now, the main focus in the wireless industry has been on communications. Until now, the main focus in the wireless industry has been on communication with higher data throughput, leaving out a set of applications requiring simple wireless connectivity with relaxed throughput and latency requirements. LR-WPANs will connect devices that previously have not been networked and allow applications that cannot use current wireless specifications, including applications in fields such as industrial, agricultural, vehicular, residential, medical sensors and actuators. TaskGroup 4 of the IEEE 802.14 Wireless personal Area Network working group is currently working to define a wireless communication standard for LR-WPANs. This article discusses the technical considerations and system requirements necessary when implementing a low-cost low-power wireless personal area network and provides an overview of the unique applications such a technology will enable.

Geolocation and assisted GPS

Abstract: Currently in development, numerous geolocation technologies can pinpoint a person's or object's position on the Earth. Knowledge of the spatial distribution of wireless callers will facilitate the planning, design, and operation of next generation broadband wireless networks. Mobile users will gain the ability to get local traffic information and detailed directions to gas stations, restaurants, hotels, and other services. Police and rescue teams will be able to quickly and precisely locate people who are lost or injured but cannot give their precise location. Companies will use geolocation based applications to track personnel, vehicles, and other assets. The driving force behind the development of this technology is a US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandate stating that by 1 October 2001 all wireless carriers must provide the geolocation of an emergency 911 caller to the appropriate public safety answering point. Location technologies requiring new modified, or upgraded mobile stations must determine the caller's longitude and latitude within 50 meters for 67 percent of emergency calls, and within 150 meters for 95 percent of the calls. Otherwise, they must do so within 100 meters and 300 meters, respectively, for the same percentage of calls. Currently deployed wireless technology can locate 911 calls within an area no smaller than 10 to 15 square kilometers. It is argued that assisted-GPS technology offers superior accuracy, availability, and coverage at a reasonable cost.

Wireless router system and method

Abstract: A wireless router employing a technique to couple a plurality a host services or host systems and a plurality of wireless networks. A method to route data items between a plurality of mobile devices and a plurality of host systems through a common wireless router. A point-to-point communication connection is preferably established between a first host system and a common wireless router, a mobile network message at a mobile device is generated, the mobile network message is transmitted via a wireless network to the common wireless router which in turn routes a data item component of the mobile network message to the appropriate host service.

Systems and methods for automatically provisioning wireless services on a wireless device

Abstract: Systems and methods for automatically activating wireless services on a wireless device are provided. The systems and methods of the present invention comprise a software and hardware infrastructure that enables a wireless service provider to automatically register a wireless device on a wireless network and a wireless device user to automatically activate wireless services on the wireless device. The wireless services may be part of a wireless service plan provided by the wireless service provider to the wireless device user on a per fee basis.

Method and system for communicating with a wireless device

Abstract: A method, system, transmitter, receiver and protocol are disclosed for communicating with wireless receivers. The invention includes providing a controller having a discovery mode and an operating mode, in the discovery mode the controller is capable of registering wireless devices, in the operating mode the controller is capable of receiving transmissions from a wireless device that has been registered. A wireless transmitter is provided which is capable of communicating wirelessly with the controller. The wireless device has an actuator for initiating at least one transmission of registration data. When the controller is placed into the discovery mode, and the actuator of the wireless device is actuated to wirelessly transmit the registration data from the wireless device to the controller, whereby the wireless device is registered with the controller. The wireless data contains data that allows the controller to interface with the wireless device.

A bridging apparatus for interconnecting a wireless pan and a wireless lan

Abstract: A Wireless bridge conjoins two previously incompatible technologies within a single device to leverage the strengths of each. The Wireless bridge marries the Personal Area Network (PAN) technology of Bluetooth as described in Bluetooth Specification Version 1.0B with the Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) technology described in the IEEE802.11a specification to provide a wireless system level solution for peripheral devices to provide Internet service interactions. The invention brings together in a single working device implementations of these technologies so they do not interfere or disrupt the operation of each other and instead provide a seamless transition of a Bluetooth connection to Wireless Local Area Network/Internet connection. From the Wireless Local Area Network perspective the inventive wireless bridge extension allows a Bluetooth-enabled device to roam from one Wireless Access Point (bridge) to the next without losing its back end connection. The invention takes into account the minimum separation and shielding required of these potentially conflicting technologies to inter-operate.

Method and apparatus for sharing mobile user event information between wireless networks and fixed IP networks

Abstract: The present invention provides for a system and method for sharing user event information (such as, and without limitation, presence on a network) among mobile (wireless) devices and those connected to fixed IP networks such as the Internet. In accordance with embodiments of the invention, the system and method support instant messaging between wireless devices and fixed IP network devices and between wireless devices and other wireless devices. The term wireless device is used broadly to include cell phones, laptop computers with wireless modems, wireless PDAs, and any other remote wireless devices.

Wireless reservation, check-in, access control, check-out and payment

Abstract: A system and method for, by means of a mobile terminal, wireless hotel search and selection, reservation/booking, check-in, room access control, check-out and payment services for hotel customers is disclosed. The mobile terminal (1) comprises a mobile telephone and processing unit (23), operating with wireless applications, for wireless communication (2) with a hotel search and reservation server (12) and a reservation/IT system (7) of a selected hotel, and a short-range wireless device (25) for wireless communication (10) with wireless devices (9, 16) of door locks (32) and user locating arrangements, respectively. By means of the wireless application of the mobile terminal (1), the user reserves a hotel room. A hotel room key token is transferred from the reservation/IT system (7) to the wireless device (35) of the mobile terminal, and hence to the wireless door lock (9, 32). When the terminal (1) and the wireless door lock (9, 31) are in-range, the hotel room key token is transferred from mobile terminal (1) to the wireless door lock (9, 32), the door is unlocked and check-in is registered. On departure, exit or expiration of the reservation period, the system provides wireless check-out and electronic bill settlement.

Ad hoc relay wireless networks over moving vehicles on highways

Abstract: Ad hoc networks can be formed on highways among moving vehicles, each equipped with a wireless LAN device However, during times of low traffic density, it is likely that such networks are disconnected This paper tests the hypothesis that the motion of vehicles on a highway can contribute to successful message delivery, provided that messages can be relayed---stored temporarily at moving nodes while waiting for opportunities to be forwarded further Using vehicle movement traces from a traffic microsimulator, we measure average message delivery time and find that it is shorter than when the messages are not relayed We condclude that ad hoc relay wireless networks, based on wireless LAN technologies, have potential for many emerging applications of this kind

Multipacket reception in random access wireless networks: from signal processing to optimal medium access control

Abstract: There has been considerable interest in the idea of cross-layer design of wireless networks. This is motivated by the need to provide a greater level of adaptivity to variations of wireless channels. This article examines one aspect of the interaction between the physical and medium access control layers. In particular, we consider the impact of signal processing techniques that enable multipacket reception on the throughput and design of random access protocols.

Wireless LAN access network architecture for mobile operators

Abstract: The evolution of IP-based office applications has created a strong demand for public wireless broadband access technology offering capacity far beyond current cellular systems. Wireless LAN access technology provides a perfect broadband complement for the operators' existing GSM and GPRS services in an indoor environment. Most commercial public wireless LAN solutions have only modest authentication and roaming capability compared to traditional cellular networks. This article describes a new wireless LAN system architecture that combines the WLAN radio access technology with mobile operators' SIM-based subscriber management functions and roaming infrastructure. In the defined system the WLAN access is authenticated and charged using GSM SIM. This solution supports roaming between cellular and WLAN access networks and is the first step toward an all-IP network architecture. The proto-type has been implemented and publicly verified in a real mobile operator network.

Programmable wireless electrode system for medical monitoring

Abstract: A wireless, programmable system for bio-potential signal acquisition (e.g., electrocardiogram (ECG) data) includes a base unit and a plurality of individual wireless, remotely programmable transceivers that connect to patch electrodes. The base unit manages the transceivers by issuing registration, configuration, data acquisition, and transmission commands using wireless techniques. Bio-potential signals from the wireless transceivers are demultiplexed and supplied via a standard interface to a conventional monitor for display.

Bitwise monitoring of network performance

Abstract: The present invention provides for a method and system for measuring data quality of service in a wireless network using multiple peripatetic (i.e. mobile) and/or stationary, unattended, position, and performance instruments (PUPPIs) that are remotely controlled by a back end processor. In some embodiments of the invention, the data service whose quality is measured relates to wireless Internet access, e-commerce transactions, wireless messaging, or push technologies. In other embodiments of the invention, the system includes an element that is located within the wireless network infrastructure, for example, at the WAP gateway to monitor the wireless data protocol and to perform benchmarking measurements.

Method and apparatus for adapting settings of wireless communication devices in accordance with user proximity

Abstract: Improved approaches for adapting settings of wireless communication devices based on estimated proximity to respective users. In accordance with one aspect, one or more settings of a wireless communication device can be automatically altered in accordance with motion (if any) of the wireless communication device. Consequently, settings of the wireless communication device can be dynamically adapted based on the proximity (e.g., motion) of the wireless communication device to its user.

System and method for achieving zero-configuration wireless computing and computing device incorporating same

Abstract: A system and method for enabling a zero configuration nomadic wireless and wired computing environment presenting a just works experience is presented. The system examines predefined user preference or profile settings to determine to which of a competing number of wireless networks available it should connect, and what type of authentication should be used for such connection. Nomadic wireless computing between infrastructure wireless networks and ad hoc wireless networks may be accomplished without further user intervention required in an auto mode. Also, both infrastructure only and ad hoc only modes are available through the system of the invention. Further, the user may set a preference for infrastructure or ad hoc modes in the auto mode. With an infrastructure mode preference set, the system will automatically detect and transfer connectivity to a newly available infrastructure wireless network if the user was previously operating off-line or in ad hoc mode.

Method and apparatus for transmitting wireless signals over media

Abstract: A residential gateway (RG) (200) for distributing video, data and telephony services to multiple devices within a residence is disclosed. The RG (200) receives signals from a telecommunications network, converts the signals to formats compatible with the multiple devices, and transmits the appropriate signals to the appropriate devices. Wireless remote control devices associated with the remotely located televisions (TVs) (199) transmit channel select commands as wireless signals to the RG (200). The wireless signals are received by a Remote Antennae Package (RAP) (900) that transmits the wireless signal over cable. A remote Antennae Module (RAM) (920) receives the wireless signal and extracts the channel select command.

Adaptable wireless proximity networking

Abstract: System and method for dynamic delivery of services and applications from a server to mobile computing devices in a wireless proximity framework. This wireless proximity framework allows users of mobile computing devices to dynamically access services and applications available in a given geographic area without preinstalling software for each service or application. Further, the wireless proximity framework allows developers to more quickly and easily adapt existing non-wireless services for use by heterogeneous mobile computing devices. Still further, the wireless proximity framework allows for services and applications to be delivered in a customized manner to each mobile computing device.

Large-scale wireless LAN design

Abstract: The design of a large-scale wireless LAN poses a number of interesting questions. Building the Wireless Andrew network at Carnegie Mellon University has given us the opportunity to deal with these questions. This article describes the approaches we have developed for the design of similar networks. A large-scale wireless LAN must be designed so that all of the target space has radio coverage (i.e., there are no coverage gaps). It must also be designed so that its capacity is adequate to carry the expected load. These requirements generally can be met by using the proper combination of access point locations, frequency assignments, and receiver threshold settings.

Method and system for a wireless universal mobile product interface

Abstract: The present invention provides a solution to the needs described above through a system and method for a wireless universal mobile product interface (WUMPI): Generally, products/objects have their own interface, or man-machine-interface (MMI). Technically, the wireless universal mobile product interface of the present invention (WUMPI) innovates this space by replacing the product's MMI by implementing reverse software control via wireless transmission channel and or Bluetooth wireless technologies to control the mobile device's screen - replacing the local software component on the mobile device which controls what is shown on the screen in terms of a man-machine-interface (MMI). This enables a product/object whithin the area of the mobile device to take over control via the wireless transmission channel or other wireless capability of the mobile device and to 'extend' the product interface to the mobile device that came withinn it's control range, or the product/object's personal area network (PAN).