Cognitive radio sensor networks: Bridging the gap for network communication

This chapter provides a review of design practices in network communication for Cognitive Radio Sensor Networks. The basics of networking and Medium Access Control functionalities with focus on data routing and spectrum usage are discussed. Technical differences manifest in various network layouts, hence the role of various specialized nodes, such as relay, aggregator, or gateway in Cognitive Radio Sensor Networks need analysis. Optimal routing techniques suitable for different topologies are also summarized. Data delivery protocols are categorized under priority-based, energy-efficient, ad hoc routing-based, attribute-based, and location-aware routing. Broadcast, unicast, and detection of silence periods are discussed for network operation with slotted or unslotted time. Efficient spectrum usage finds the most important application here involving use of dynamic, opportunistic, and fixed spectrum usage. Finally, a thorough discussion on the open issues and challenges for Cognitive Radio Sensor Network communication and internetworking in Cognitive Radio Sensor Network-based deployments and methods to address them are provided.