Analysis of Potential Savings in Signaling Overhead in Beyond 3G MAC Protocols by the use of Frame Descriptor Tables

Abstract:
In this paper we analyse the potential savings in MAC signaling overhead by introducing Frame Descriptor Tables. Newly developed mobile radio interfaces beyond 3rd generation (B3G) present a new set of challenges in regard to medium access control protocols. In order to meet high Quality of Service requirements, B3G systems will need to possess an efficient method for reservation of the wireless medium. Hence, new concepts have to be developed in order to enhance the efficiency of resource reservation. This work analyses the promising concept of Frame Descriptor Tables (FDT) introduced in [1]. Assuming a frame based reservation scheme, the concept helps to reduce signaling overhead by eliminating redundant description of frame contents across frames. This is done by caching the description of frame contents in mobile stations and referencing a certain description by transmitting an associated ID. This merges the concepts of frame based resource reservation and the reservation of TDMA channels in order to take advantage of the merits of both concepts. The analysis done in the course of this work show the positive effects on signaling overhead. The FDT concept is applied in a single-hop as well as in a multi-hop (relaying) scenario. The results presented show a reduction of overhead and establishment of TDMA channels using a MAC protocol employing a frame based reservation is feasible and promising.