Collision detection for carrier sense multiple access in wireless networks

Due to constraints inherent in RF systems, it is commonly agreed that collision detection is not feasible for CSMA-based wireless networks. However, by applying ideas from the busy-tone solution for hidden terminals and engineering together existing solutions for RF communications, we devise a simple method to reliably detect collisions for the wireless channel. We investigate the throughput gain delivered by CSMA/CD and its cross-layer designed version for multipacket-reception capable physical layers. We show that collision detection can help the system operate closer to its channel capacity. Our novel performance-improving protocols can be applied as beneficial extensions to the IEEE 802.11 wireless LAN standards