Modeling and Analyzing MAC Frame Aggregation Techniques in 802.11n Using Bi-dimensional Markovian Model

Abstract

Increased expectations and demand for higher rates led to the development of new physical layer technologies in Wireless LANs. However, the current medium access control (MAC) needs to be improved to fully utilize higher physical-layer transmission rates. Several aggregation mechanisms have been recently proposed to improve the MAC layer performance of 802.11n. In this paper, we analyze some of the key aggregation mechanisms proposed. For analysis we adapted widely used Bianchi's analytical model and applied it for various aggregation techniques. We also compare the analytical details of various strategies and provide a unified analytical framework for continued research in this direction. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2012.