Power-based leader selection in ad-hoc wireless networks

In this paper, we develop a physical layer-based framework for the organization of an ad-hoc wireless network. The focus is quasi-static environments, such as multimedia classrooms, and situations characterized by real-time services and high traffic loads. In these cases, centralized control may be preferable due to its simplicity and high efficiency. Using a link loss matrix, an approach is proposed for selection of a network leader that takes into consideration link losses and transmitter powers. Both minimax and minisum criteria are developed to determine uplink, downlink, and overall leaders. A QoS-based iterative algorithm for determination of link transmit powers is also proposed, from which leader selection is obtained as a special case. Numerical results are also presented which explore the effect of quantization of feedback information on the iterative algorithm.