A Non-Parametric Approach to Estimating Ambient Noise Levels in the Presence of Bursty Interference

We propose a new transmitter-side approach for estimating the contribution to the packet error rate that is due to background noise, distinct from the contribution due to interference bursts. The technique relies solely on an existing data-ack handshake and the transmitters ability to adjust or monitor the packet size. One immediate application of this information is in rate adaptation. Experimental measurements with microwave oven interference are presented to demonstrate the practical utility of the proposed technique.