Performance of Wi-Fi and bluetooth in mobile ad hoc networks

As wireless networks become more pervasive throughout society, developments focus on establishing full mobility. This research examines the performance of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networks in situations where both communication nodes are in motion. Throughput-testing software ran on two computers in an ad-hoc network, while located in separate cars driving on the highway in various configurations. Initial results indicate that compared to stationary communication, motion at 80 km/h cut the data rate roughly in half when using the TCP protocol while decreasing packet transmission times. The data rate for UDP remained roughly the same, although much less consistent, while packet transmission times also decreased. Bluetooth connections could not be established while in motion, but once established while stationary, synchronized motion showed little effect on communication performance. Future research would explore alternative protocols and spectral bands, additionally incorporating more nodes to determine the impact of interference on such configurations.