Access Point Transmit Power Control for Co-Channel Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Interference between multiple wireless access points in shared spaces limits network performance and client device mobility due to the ad hoc deployment and loose operational control of WiFi networks, which lack strict channel usage and transmission power management rules compared to cellular networks.
Innovation Solution
Generating an interference map based on co-channel interference from neighbor lists and determining transmit power adjustments for each access point to mitigate interference, using a cloud-hosted network management system to coordinate compliant wireless access points and manage channel usage and power levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple wireless access points are deployed in shared spaces, then network coverage area is expanded, but interference between access points increases and network performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts transmission power levels of access points based on real-time interference measurements and neighbor list data. By changing the power parameter adaptively rather than using fixed levels, the network can expand coverage while maintaining acceptable interference thresholds through coordinated power control among multiple access points
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where access points continuously monitor co-channel interference from neighboring access points, report this information to a controller, and receive adjusted power level recommendations. This closed-loop feedback enables the network to respond to changing interference conditions and maintain optimal performance as coverage area expands
2Area of stationary object
If transmission power levels are increased to extend coverage, then coverage area increases, but interference between access points worsens
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than uniformly increasing power levels across all access points, the system selectively adjusts power parameters on an individual access point basis based on local interference conditions. The controller analyzes neighbor list data and co-channel interference measurements to determine optimal power levels for each access point, enabling coverage extension without proportional increase in interference
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies different transmission power levels to different access points based on their local environment and interference profile. Each access point receives customized power control recommendations tailored to its specific position in the network and neighboring access points, rather than applying a uniform power policy across the entire network
3Ease of manufacture
If ad hoc deployment of wireless access points is allowed, then ease of installation is improved, but operational control and interference management deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables access points to automatically discover neighboring access points and generate neighbor lists without manual configuration. Access points autonomously perform channel scanning, identify co-channel interferers, and report this information to the controller, which then automatically computes and implements power level adjustments. This self-organizing capability maintains ease of deployment while establishing structured operational control
Data Source
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AI summary
A method (600) and corresponding wireless network access point controller and a computer readable medium, comprising, at the wireless network access point controller (800): selecting (6-1) a first compliant wireless access point (212) from a number of known and/or identified reporting compliant access points; identifying (6-2) direct neighboring wireless access points (211, 213, 214, 215) of the selected wireless access point; and determining (6-3) a transmit power adjustment for the selected wireless access point and/or one or more of the identified neighboring wireless access points based on interference with the selected wireless access point and on the identified neighboring wireless access points.