On the performance of ARQ protocols in infrared networks

In this paper we address the retransmission techniques in the infrared link access protocols in the infrared wireless networks. We present the performance of the Go‐Back‐N and Selective–Reject automatic repeat request protocols in the infrared link access control layer. The effects of the parameters, such as the window size, packet error rate and processor speed, are discussed. We investigate which link parameter is dominant in the performance under different link conditions. The optimal packet sizes for the ARQ protocols are also addressed. It is concluded that processing time affects the performance more than channel capacity after accomplishing a certain bit error rate. We also introduce the use of packet‐level acknowledgements in the infrared medium access control layer, which is a way of using Stop‐and‐Wait ARQ in the infrared media access control layer as well as the Go‐Back‐N ARQ in the infrared link control layer. The performance of the system is given in the presence of adaptive data rate mechanism over L‐PPM wireless links. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.