SBIR-STTR Award

Wireless local area networks (WLANs) have become standard technology for government, commercial business, and DoD networks. With this widespread proliferation of RF technology has come a myriad of problems such as how to architect the WLAN for optimum performance, how to easily set-up and configure the WLAN and how to secure the WLAN to protect it from hackers. Solutions for such problems are available and still evolving. However, a newly recognized and just as insidious problem has gotten a lot of attention recently; that is the problem of Spectrum Management. Develop advanced hardware and software technologies for analysis and management of the RF component of shipboard wireless networks. In this SBIR Phase I we plan to demonstrate the feasibility of spectrum management for a wireless network system that utilizes the common unlicensed frequency bands and has the ability to shift to other desired frequency bands. The solution developed will address improvement of throughput through avoidance of interference as well as the ability to avoid the usage of specified frequencies when required by policy. We will accomplish this through the use of extensions to an existing WLAN Management System coupled with adding special purpose spectral analysis ICs to wireless Access Points. Comprehensive spectrum management will include provisions for spectral analysis and characterization as well as RF emitter location techniques. Advanced power management coupled with the use of directional and smart antenna technology is another key aspect of this project. The primary focus will be development of system suitable for handling the complex shipboard RF environment. The system will be capable of being used for Naval and military applications, including requirements for ruggedization, electromagnetic compatibility, information assurance and open architecture. The developed solutions will also have applicability for typical shore-based installations as well

This Phase II SBIR develops a prototype Comprehensive Spectrum Management System (CSMS), an automated spectrum monitoring and management tool that will boost RF performance, isolate and correct spectrum related problems. The CSMS product described by this document provides for a new tool that leverages a set of components that provide for improved WLAN robustness and adaptation capability in the presence of spectral effects such as interference, blockages, and other environmental conditions. Several different technologies and methods will be utilized including specialized hardware to analyze the spectrum and identify and present the data. A policy engine will be developed in order to use a rules based approach to adapting to the spectral effect. The WMS will be modified to include capabilities to reconfigure wireless Access Points per policy engine rules, locate the source of interference and integrate Alerts and Reports. The CSMS will also employ WLAN modeling software in order to perform “what if” analysis of various spectral effects. This modeling capability can be used by WMS operators or automatically to ensure that CSMS reconfigures the WLAN to function optimally. As the Option task, CSMS will also include 3eTI developed Smart Antenna Technology and Integration with Smart Antenna Location Engine.

Keywords:
Spectrum Management, Smart Antenna, Network Configuration, Network Modeling, Policy Engine