A cross-layer solution for enabling real-time video transmission over IEEE 802.15.4 networks

Over the last few years, the research community has devoted great attention to video transmission on wireless sensor networks, and in particular to their recent evolution, the one based on IEEE 802.15.4 standard. This cost-efficient wireless technology is aimed at transmitting information at low rates and short distances. Extending the use of this technology for intensive bandwidth applications is a challenge that offers the opportunity to support value-added services. This paper deals with this issue and evaluates, by analysis and computer simulation as well as by developing a first prototype, the feasibility of transmitting MPEG-4 video information over an IEEE 802.15.4 network. The study of power-consumption is also considered and so are the Quality of Service parameters together with the human quality perception of the received video streaming. A detailed cross-layer solution is offered, and the results obtained are presented and discussed.