Performance of a point-to-multipoint WiFi network in 400/700 MHz band

Abstract

Long range for Wi-Fi links have been achieved using increased power and directed antennas with high directional gain. The link throughput in these links is generally reduced due to channel induces loses. In this paper, we have investigated a point to multipoint Wi-Fi LAN scenario where ISM band RF carrier is translated down in a licensed 400 and 700 MHz band which have better propagation loss characteristics than 2.4 GHz band and thus should provide longer reach. Effect of different physical layer parameters using existing IEEE 802.11 protocol stack is studied to understand the link behavior in terms of the distance and throughput. Simulations have been performed using Network Simulator 2 by incorporating Hata loss model simulation scenario. We have found that links up to tens of kilometers are possible by changing physical layer parameters like carrier frequency, propagation delay/ACK time-out, transmit power.