Co-channel interference modelling between RATs in heterogeneous wireless networks

Abstract

Co-channel interference models are increasingly becoming important in wireless networking. This is especially true in heterogeneous networks where a single device may cause unintended interactions between multiple radios using difference radio access technologies, even though they are located on the same device. Currently simulation tools provide varying levels of modelling of this phenomenon. This paper tries to quantify how well popular wireless simulation tools capture these effects using qualitative techniques while providing quantitative evaulation of the effects of interference between two radio access technologies - Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Each tool is compared according to level of interference modelling offered, the technique for interference modelling and the types of RATs which are supported. The effect of co-channel interference between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi is evaluated with respect to throughput using devices equipped with both Blutooth and Wi-Fi radios. © 2012 IEEE.