Physical Layer Performance of the IEEE 802.11b WLAN Standard in Outdoor Applications: A Case Study in Yuma, AZ

摘要

The IEEE 802.11b wireless local area networking (WLAN) standard achieves data rates of 1 Mbps up to 11 Mbps by employing Differential Binary Phase Shift Keying (DBPSK), Differential Quaternary Phase Shift Keying (DQPSK), and advanced Complimentary Code Keying (CCK) waveforms. These waveforms are spread in frequency through either frequency hopping (1-2 Mbps) or direct sequence spread spectrum (5.5-11 Mbps). This paper looks at the physical layer performance of this networking standard in outdoor applications for network topologies that rely on link ranges much greater than those specified in the IEEE 802.11b standard. Physical layer performance is predicted for the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Grounds (YPG) in Yuma, AZ. Bit error rate (BER) and packet error rate (PER) versus range performance are ascertained through modeling and simulation. These results are determined for the 802.11b WLAN implementation for the Two-Way Robust Acquisition of Data (2-RAD) program at the YPG in Yuma, Arizona.