Exploiting Diversity Gain in MIMO Equipped Ad hoc Networks

MIMO links coupled with space-time codes can combat fading and hence can significantly increase the capacity of ad hoc networks. This ability of providing " diversity gain" can increase the capacity of ad hoc networks. Currently, most of the studies on MIMO links systems are focused on the physical layer without taking into consideration the intricacies of a network-wide deployment. In this work we study the benefits of a network-wide deployment of MIMO links in mobile ad hoc networks. In particular, we examine the trade-offs between using the possible diversity gain for an increase in range or an increase in rate. We make minor modifications to traditionally used MAC and routing schemes popularly considered for ad hoc networks and perform extensive simulations to understand the above trade-offs. We quantify the performance trade-offs in terms of the achieved throughput and end-to-end latency. Our studies can serve as a precursor to the design of adaptive schemes that can exploit the achievable diversity to increase range/rate depending on the scenario at hand.