Two state Markov chain based predictive model for cognitive Radio spectrum availability: A conceptual approach

One of the major challenges in Cognitive Radio Network (CRN) is the limitations in protecting the activities of the licensed devices from any form of interference while making an efficient use of the unused spectrum opportunistically. The CRNs required that the unlicensed devices leave the band once the licensed device is detected. The high fluctuation in available spectrum due to random behaviour of the licensed devices however imposes a challenge in detecting the unused spectrum bands. This work presents a model with the capability to predict the cognitive radio spectrum availability base on the behaviour of the licensed devices observed in southwest of Nigeria. Discrete time Markov chain (DTMC) and duty cycle models were adopted in predicting the spectrum usage. Results shows that prediction using DTMC was appropriate for channels in which licensed devices resides in one state for a long period of time before switching to another state.