IEEE 802.11n for Distributed Measurement Systems

Distributed Measurement Systems (DMSs) typically rely on real-time communication networks, since these latter allow to achieve timely and efficient data transfer among the distributed measurement nodes. The most suitable networks to this purpose are industrial communication systems such as fieldbuses and industrial Ethernet. In this scenario, wireless systems have recently started to be carefully evaluated, with a particular reference to the IEEE 802.11 Wireless LANs (WLAN). In this paper, we address the IEEE 802.11n version of the WLAN standard which, although widespread for general purpose applications, has not yet been adequately deployed for real-time communications. Specifically, we present the results of a performance analysis aimed at assessing the suitability of IEEE 802.11n for employment in DMSs. In detail, the proposed analysis starts with a measurement campaign carried out on commercial devices to determine the Packet Error Rate (PER) versus Signal-to-Noise (SNR) ratio behavior. Then we present the outcomes of a realistic simulation session executed on a network configuration typical of DMSs. The obtained results confirm that IEEE 802.11n may be a viable opportunity to implement DMSs and, moreover, they suggest some interesting future directions of research.