Kiyang, S T and van Zyl, R (2014) Empirical investigation of wireless sensor network performance in noisy environments. Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, 12(1), pp. 29-38. ISSN 1726-0531
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this work is to assess the influence of ambient noise on the performance of wireless sensor networks (WSNs) empirically and, based on these findings, develop a mathematical tool to assist technicians to determine the maximum inter-node separation before deploying a new WSN. Design/methodology/approach: A WSN test platform is set up in an electromagnetically shielded environment (RF chamber) to accurately control and quantify the ambient noise level. The test platform is subsequently placed in an operational laboratory to record network performance in typical unshielded spaces. Results from the RF chamber and the real-life environments are analysed. Findings: A minimum signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at which the network still functions was found to be of the order 30 dB. In the real-life scenarios (machines, telecommunications and computer laboratories), the measured SNR exceeded this minimum value by more than 20 dB. This is due to the low ambient industrial noise levels observed in the 2.4 GHz ISM band for typical environments found at academic institutions. It, therefore, suggests that WSNs are less prone to industrial interferences than anticipated. Originality/value: A predictive mathematical tool is developed that can be used by technicians to determine the maximum inter-node separation before the WSN is deployed. The tool yields reliable results and promises to save installation time.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | electrical engineering; interference; signal-to-noise ratio; white noise; wireless communications; wireless sensor networks |
| Index terms: | investigation, wireless sensor network, telecommunication, wireless communication, platform, methodology, electrical engineering, laboratory |
| Subjects: | digital design, civil engineering, data collection methods, communication, computer vision, research methods, digital technology, research management |
| Topics: | Research Practice, Engineering Principles, Digital Applications |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTA |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here