Cross layer analysis for a dynamic spectrum allocation system

Dynamic spectrum allocation can solve an efficient use of the frequency spectrum where several cognitive devices are searching for spectrum `white spaces´. The main concept is to communicate with minimum or without interference to primary users, i.e. licensed users. Cognitive Radio devices must coordinate the communication with peers when they move to another frequency band in presence of licensed users. This coordination of the communication requires the use of mainly four functionalities. These functionalities are spectrum sensing, decision making, sharing and mobility that match to different layers such as physical, media access, routing and application layers. The design of a cognitive radio testbed demands a cross-layer analysis in order to integrate the four main functions. A testbed has been implemented to solve dynamic spectrum allocation for a particular application using sensor devices. The analysis of the testbed characteristics for the physical, MAC and Application layers is presented in this work. We show also results of experimental and simulation tests that indicate the testbed performance.