High throughput tactical wireless networking for surveillance and targeting in a coalition environment an analysis of the next generation IEEE 802.11n equipment and standard

摘要

This thesis presents a technology review of the emerging IEEE 802.11n standard. A wireless local area network (WLAN) based on state-of-the-art equipment supporting the 802.11n protocol is evaluated in the Coalition Operating Area Surveillance and Targeting System (COASTS). This thesis also provides a brief introduction to COASTS, its support for testing various networking schemes, and their effectiveness in supplying information necessary to reach a decision maker's desired end-state. Also provided is a summary of the current state of the 802.11n proposed standard, the hardware and software used to evaluate the equipment, and the testing methodology. In general, the methodology was to conduct field tests with private vendors and coalition partners to evaluate the capabilities of 802.11n networks that promise large throughput benefits for WLANs. The specific goal of this research focused on testing equipment and network configurations in an IP network. The ultimate goal of this research is to evaluate an evolutionary improvement for our forces to transfer large amounts of data and to maintain the mobility and flexibility to deploy rapidly to areas with little or no infrastructure. With this capability our forces may can gain control of the environment, dramatically improve tactical situational awareness, and attain information superiority.