Characterization of idle periods in IEEE 802.11e networks

In this paper we investigate probability distribution of idle time in IEEE 802.11e networks with an access point. The probability distribution is shown to be sub-geometric and it can be approximated with a sub-exponential Gamma distribution. Secondary network operating within the transmission range of such a WLAN can use these probability distributions to estimate the probability of collisions with the transmissions from WLAN nodes, and make decision about the timing of their own forthcoming transmissions.