Measurement-based frame error model for simulating outdoor Wi-Fi networks

We present a measurement-based model of the frame error process on a Wi-Fi channel in rural environments. Measures are obtained in controlled conditions, and careful statistical analysis is performed on the data, providing information which the network simulation literature is lacking. Results indicate that most network simulators use a frame loss model that can miss important transmission impairments even at a short distance, particularly when considering antenna radiation pattern anisotropy and multi-rate switching.