Comprehensive Spectrum Management for Wireless Networks

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.