HCR-MAC: A High-Capacity Receiver-Based MAC Protocol for Cognitive Radio Enabled AMI Networks in Smart Grid

Abstract

For the purpose of enhancing electric power grid in a variety of application scenarios and realizing smart grid, the Cognitive Radio Enabled Advanced Metering Infrastructure (CR-AMI) network is recognized as an effective solution. However, there have been many evitable challenges in advanced smart grid as a result of the harsh wireless environment. Therefore, two crucial issues should be focused on are throughput and reliability. In this regard, we propose a high-capacity receiver-based MAC protocol for cognitive AMI, which is termed as HCR-MAC. In order to achieve high capacity and reliability, HCR-MAC adopts a capacity-based auction mechanism and preamble sampling techniques respectively. The proposed protocol also clearly accounts for the properties of a CR environment. Simulation results demonstrate HCR-MAC is able to provide an effective solution for cognitive MAI networks in smart grid.