TR-MAC: A multi-step slot reservation-based hybrid MAC protocol for ad hoc networks

A multi-step slot reservation hybrid MAC protocol based on the Distributed Coordinate Function (DCF) of IEEE 802.11 standard and Time-Division Multiple Access (TDMA) scheme termed TR-MAC, is presented for Ad Hoc Networks. The protocol combines the strengths of TDMA and DCF, using the multi-step slot reservation mechanism reduces the control packets negotiation, avoids extra contentions and removes the slot assignment algorithm, thereby improving the performance of throughput without incurring additional overhead. Furthermore, TR-MAC provides Qos guarantee for multiple data transmissions. The effectiveness of TR-MAC is analyzed and evaluated in terms of throughput, packet loss rate and delay-jitter comparison with Z-MAC via ns-2 simulation. The results verify that TR-MAC works very well in all three aspects, and it is superior to Z-MAC.