Estimation of VDL mode 2 with hidden transmitters

The VDL Mode 2 aeronautical data link uses a p-persistent carrier sense multiple access (CSMA) channel access protocol that, like all CSMA systems, is susceptible to the hidden transmitter condition. Simulations have shown that the impact of hidden transmitters in the aeronautical environment can be significant. In this paper, a method of estimating channel performance with hidden transmitters is derived on a radio by radio basis. This method proves to be faster than the VDL Mode 2 simulations, allowing scenarios to be evaluated quickly. The process is applied to a large dynamic data set that demonstrates the usefulness of this approach.