Machine-to-Machine Communications in Cognitive Cellular Systems

Machine-to-machine (M2M) communication systems consist of massive autonomous devices which hold the ability to sense, communicate, and process information ubiquitously. The major challenges posed by M2M devices are spectrum scarcity, spectrum inefficiency, and network overload. Endowing M2M devices with cognitive radio technology can be a promising solution to these challenges. This paper presents an overview of cognitive M2M communication. We present cognitive cellular system architecture for M2M communication and discuss the possible transmission scenarios. In addition, the paper offers a spectrum sensing and resource allocation framework for cognitive M2M communication. Focus is given to lightweight selective compressive sensing and energy efficient resource allocation. Finally, the paper is supported by simulation results showing the benefits offered by cognitive cellular systems for M2M communications.