A heterogeneous WiMAX-WLAN network for AMI communications in the smart grid

The unique characteristics of advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) communications such as large number of devices, small data burst transmission, high reliability and variable propagation conditions require a robust communication network to serve them in an efficient and scalable manner. Being the two promising technologies of the next generation wireless networks, the synergic operation of WiMAX and WLAN can significantly improve the cost and efficiency of an AMI network by extending transmission range, improving link quality and allowing flexible data aggregation to reduce signalling and protocol overheads. In this paper, we provide some of our initial studies on a WiMAX-WLAN heterogeneous network (Hetnet) architecture for AMI communications in the smart grid. Using a basic numerical analysis and discrete event simulation models based on OPNET, we compare the behaviour and performance of a WiMAX-WLAN Hetnet with a standalone WiMAX network. The results indicate that the Hetnet provides a significant performance edge over the standalone network in terms of capacity, coverage and latency.