A multiple access collision avoidance protocol for multicast service in mobile ad hoc networks

In the view of cross-layer optimization, we propose a multiple access collision avoidance protocol for multicast service (MACAM) that combines RTS/CTS with scheduling algorithms to support the multicast routing protocol. We avoid collision by including additional information in the RTS. Proposed MACAM, together with extra benefits, such as power saving, reliable data transmission and higher channel utilization compared with CSMA or multiple unicast, enables the support of multicast service in mobile ad hoc network environments coexisting with conventional unicast and broadcast MAC protocols.