Topology control for ad hoc networks with directional antennas

Abstract

Topology control for ad hoc networks aims to increase effective network capacity and conserve energy. Most proposed algorithms assume the use of isotropic antennas and thus only adjust the transmission power of each node. We propose a distributed topology control mechanism for ad hoc networks with directional antennas that adjusts antenna pattern (direction) in addition to transmission power. Simulation studies have been conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach, as well as to investigate its benefits and impacts on application layer performance.