Multi-channel MAC Protocol with Multi-busytone in Ad-hoc Networks

Abstract

Multi-channel MAC protocols for wireless ad hoc networks have been proposed for improving the effect of traditional hidden terminal problem. However, they may cause another problem called as "multi-channel hidden terminal problem". In this paper, we propose a new multichannel MAC protocol using busy tones in wireless ad hoc networks. In our method, each terminal employs single control channel and some data channels. Moreover, busy tones are used for informing adjacent terminals of utilizing the corresponding channel. Terminals can recognize the channel availability by carrier-sensing busy tones at any time. Therefore, our method can solve multi-channel hidden terminal problem. We evaluate the performance of our method by computer simulation.