Grouping technique for cooperative spectrum sensing in cognitive radios

Abstract

Cognitive networks can potentially solve the problems of spectrum scarcity by accommodating unlicensed (secondary) users in under-utilized segments of the spectrum. Spectrum sensing serves as the primary stimulus for a cognitive radio and is vitally important for ensuring that the unlicensed users do not offer intolerable levels of interference to licensed (primary) users. Cooperative spectrum sensing provides the capability to cognitive networks to overcome problems related to “hidden” primary users. In this paper, we present a novel technique that takes advantage of cooperative diversity to establish clustering among cooperating secondary users. This technique is then extended to group-based spectrum sensing to establish a tasking mechanism. The technique ensures enhanced agility that will result in a reduction of interference to primary users through their early detection.