Feedback interval for link adaptation in TDMA-based single-carrier VHF narrowband mobile ad-hoc networks

The impact of a link adaptation feedback interval on user net throughput for time division multiple access (TDMA)-based single-carrier very high frequency (VHF) narrowband mobile ad-hoc networks (MANETs) is investigated. Specifically for the narrowband MANETs optimisation of the signalling overhead is one of the major challenges. Reducing the overhead means that more user data can be transmitted; however, the quality of channel quality feedback information will be lower, resulting in potentially inaccurate link adaptation decisions. The results from Monte Carlo computer simulation show that a global maximum for the throughput with respect to interval exists. The achievable throughput, however, strongly depends on the user mobility pattern.