A mobile embedded-Linux-based testbed for outdoor ad hoc network evaluation

Mobile Ad-hoc Networks (MANETs) are one possible solution for infrastructure-independent communication in disaster scenarios. In such scenarios, communication is essential to coordinate first responders and safe lives. But mobile nodes in large areas face several challenges related to connectivity, resulting in frequent partitions and intermittent connections. Protocols as well as network access technologies try to handle this. However, they are traditionally evaluated via simulations only. This might lead to wrong results if the assumptions do not reflect real-world characteristics. To avoid that and to validate the assumptions made during simulations, experiments on real hardware in the envisioned environment are required. In this paper, we present our testbed platform for outdoor evaluation of ad-hoc communication protocols with respect to disaster scenarios. It provides battery-powered, waterproof nodes equipped with multiple network access technologies to support different evaluation options. Furthermore, we present first results from a measurement campaign in forest areas as a typical search and rescue mission environment.