A hands-on approch to teaching wirless ad hoc networks

Abstract

Advanced graduate level courses in mobile wireless networking teach the emerging field of multi-hop. wireless ad hoc networks from a purely research perspective. Simulation software is usually used to predict the performance of wireless ad hoc routing algorithms. However, due to the overly simplistic nature of the simulator's internal channel models and the level of abstraction involved, students do not fully comprehend the impact of design decisions on real world algorithm performance. In addition, die steep learning curve associated with simulators also presents an impediment to timely implementation of the algorithm in the simulator. This paper proposes a hands-on approach to an upper level graduate course in wireless networking. Students are not only afforded a chance to design their own wireless ad hoc routing algorithm but they also get to implement and test their work on an affordable mobile hardware platform Portable mobile platforms have their own hardware limitations that are not easily captured by simulators running on highly capable host machines. This allows students the ability to identify the potential failure-points of a design based on unworkable assumptions in real world conditions, which would otherwise have not been possible. We use the inexpensive Nokia NSOO series of ultra-portable Internet Tablets running the Maenio-Linux operating system and the Scratchbox development toolkit. We also provide a simple framework to modify the stock Linux IP routing layer in its TCP/IP network protocol stack. This framework enables students to rapidly prototype their self-designed wireless ad hoc routing algorithms. The implementation phase can be structured to present different levels of challenge, depending on the students' familiarity with C programming under Linux and general technical proficiency. The final implementation provides a functional testbed for analysis and behavior of the routing algorithm's performance. Collaborative learning is encouraged with the instructor acting as facilitator and moderator. © American Society for Engineering Education, 2010.