Modeling IEEE 802.11 DCF Using Parallel Space-Time Markov Chain: Multi-Hop Ad Hoc Networks

A new analytical model based on Parallel Space-Time Markov Chain concept is presented for performance evaluation of IEEE 802.11 DCF MAC in multi-hop ad hoc networks. The proposed framework is able to model hidden-terminal problem and the aforementioned unreachability phenomena in such networks precisely. To the best of our knowledge, the proposed framework is one of the leading approaches in finite load analysis of multi-hop ad hoc networks taking into account backoff and post-backoff processes, in addition to the MAC sub-layer transmission queue status in an integrated fashion. Based on the proposed model, we provide an extensive throughput performance evaluation of practical multi-hop networks based on IEEE 802.11 DCF MAC.