Cross-layer design of AODV-based routing in ad hoc networks with MIMO links

Multiple input multiple output (MIMO) transceivers can potentially increase overall network throughput via spatial reuse of spectrum by allowing multiple simultaneous communications. Efficient use of MIMO technique in wireless ad hoc networks still meets challenges especially for upper layer protocols. In this paper we propose a cross-layer strategy of allowing the data stream and routing control stream transmitting concurrently with different antennas of the MIMO system. Implementing on the ad hoc on-demand distance vector (AODV) protocol, simulation results show that the strategy of queuing different type of packets obviously decreases the duration of route establishment, especially when the network is suffering heavy traffic load.