Distributed coordination in dynamic spectrum allocation networks

TLDR

Device coordination in open spectrum systems is challenging because users experience varying spectrum availability over time and location. The authors propose a distributed coordination approach that handles spectrum heterogeneity without relying on a preassigned common control channel. The distributed coordination approach can be implemented by upgrading the legacy protocol stack without modifying the MAC protocol, and we also describe MAC protocol modifications that address spectrum heterogeneity and significantly improve system performance. Experimental results show that the proposed scheme outperforms existing coordination schemes by 25‑35 % in throughput and reduces delay by 50 %, indicating robust operation under network dynamics.

Abstract

Device coordination in open spectrum systems is a challenging problem, particularly since users experience varying spectrum availability over time and location. We propose a distributed coordination approach that handles spectrum heterogeneity without relying on the existence of a preassigned common control channel. Our approach carries potential to provide robust operation under network dynamics. While this approach can be implemented by upgrading the legacy protocol stack without modifying the MAC protocol, we also describe modifications to the MAC protocol that address spectrum heterogeneity and significantly improve system performance. Experimental results show that the proposed distributed coordination scheme outperforms the existing coordination schemes by 25-35% in throughput and provides 50% of delay reduction