Information Efficiency of Ad Hoc Networks with FH-MIMO Transceivers

We consider an ad hoc network where frequency hopping (FH) and coding are employed in order to mitigate multiple-access interference. In contrast to previous work, in our model hopping takes place at the symbol level. As a result, different interference levels are encountered across a codeword/packet, creating interference diversity which is exploited through coding. Moreover, the nodes are equipped with multiple antennas which can be used for further error protection or increase of the transmission rate through space-time block coding or spatial multiplexing, respectively. Assuming an infinite network of terminals, modelled as a Poisson random field, the performance is evaluated in terms of the product (spectral efficiency) times (distance), often referred to as information efficiency. With a cross-layer design perspective in mind, results are presented for various combinations of routing strategies, MIMO techniques and code diversity orders.