TABLE OF CONTENTS A general definition of ad hoc networks is a collection of mobile nodes, which communicate with each other over a wireless channel [1]. By definition, ad hoc networks have no fixed infrastructure. All network functions have to be coordinated in a distributed manner between the network nodes. Central to the idea of ad hoc networks is the concept of multi hop, where each node can act as a router and forward packets on behalf of other nodes towards their destination. This is in radical contrast to conventional cellular systems where each mobile device communicates directly to a base station, which controls all transmission and routing functions [2].
One essential feature of ad hoc networks is that generally nodes can be mobile. They can and do move in an unpredictable manner resulting in dynamic network topology. This can lead to the emergence of temporary clusters of communicating nodes, which later may disappear as the nodes disperse. Due to the movement of nodes the association of any two nodes can disappear, to be replaced by new temporary connections. Communication between nodes depends critically on their distance as well as their power control and communication protocols [3]. This dynamic nature together with the distributed control requirements leads to new challenges not present in cellular or fixed network design.
Another aspect of ad hoc networks is how their willingness to be active impacts on the resulting network topology. As power is a scarce resource for...
