Metrics for Performance Prediction of Wireless Sensor Networks

We present the derivation of a novel metric for the performance prediction of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). In particular, the metric can be applied in, for example, monitoring and surveillance applications where WSNs are used. Those networks execute protocols or techniques that are often sensitive to spatial correlation. The proposed metric is based on the correlation in the sensed phenomenon and the correlation in the location of the sensor nodes. The main application area of the performance prediction metric lies in the design and optimisation of WSNs prior to the costly deployment phase. Since extensive simulations can be completely avoided it serves as a rapid and lightweight evaluation tool for comparative analysis of WSNs. The concept is applicable and also extensible through merging of selected performance criteria.