Topology control with directional power intensity for ad hoc networks

This paper presents a new approach using directional antenna to controlling topology by reducing the power intensity directionally instead of omnidirectionally. In particular, the approach maintains the original power range in certain directions while making it (totally) cleared in others. Its major benefits include lower hop count, power saving independent of the number of neighbors within the original power range, and symmetric link in terms of SNR quality, as compared to other approaches. We have shown the similar capability of this approach to existing omnidirectional approaches in terms of maintaining network connectivity. We have also explained the approach´s phase transitional behavior in terms of network connectivity using the percolation theory. Simulations are conducted to demonstrate its benefits and tradeoffs.