ad hoc networking with bluetooth

In this paper we explore the ability to support multimedia traffic in indoor, wireless ad hoc PANs (Personal Area Networks) using the Bluetooth technology. We first define the representative ad hoc networking applications such as wireless access to the Internet, document distribution, videoconferencing, webcasting, interaction with sensors and actuators, etc. For such applications, we define the performance requirements placed on the PAN. There are two technologies now competing for the PAN market: the IEEE802.11 “legacy ” technology, and the newly introduced Bluetooth technology. By IEEE802.11, we refer to the operation of 802.11 in the DCF mode, which is the mode implemented in the commercial WaveLAN cards. In the rest of the paper, we will use the term WaveLAN to refer to 802.11 in its DCF mode. We will attempt to answer the questions: how effective is the Bluetooth technology in supporting collaborative, “virtual ad hoc networking ” applications and how does it compare with WaveLAN? To answer these questions, we have developed an NS-2 model of Bluetooth. We have also developed models of adaptive applications such as voice and video. For WaveLAN, we have used the existing NS-2 models. The results show that Bluetooth provides better support for real-time applications as compared to WaveLAN. It does not exhibit the “capture ” behavior observed, for example, in WaveLAN. Also, with the addition of nodes to the “indoor ” space, it adds to the total “system” capacity and gives a better overall throughput. 1. Ad hoc networking and Personal Area Networks (PANs) With the increasing dependence on the Internet in many aspects of their daily lives, users demand ubiquitous, high performance Internet access whether they are at work, at home, or on the move. Moreover, users on the move are often interested in forming “ad hoc ” networks to collaborate with colleagues at conferences, or more generally to interconnect all their personal devices. This type of network, which is centered on the individual himself, is often called the Personal Area Network (PAN). The PAN is defined as the collection of devices carried by a mobile, networked individual (e.g., a professional on the move, an Internet-wise tourist, a student attending “virtual classes”, an avid Internet game player, etc). The devices include an