Wireless Sensor Network: Channel Propagation Measurements and Comparison With Simulation

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) is an important field of study as more and more applications are enhancing daily life. The technology trend is to achieve small-sized, cheap, and power efficient sensor nodes, which will make the system reliable and efficient. The Crossbow Technologies MICAz mote is an example used in this paper. Measurements of its propagation characteristics in a realistic environment will help the deployment and installation of these motes to form a WSN. The CST Microwave Studio is used to build a simulation of the MICAz. The results and comparisons between empirical and simulated data are intended to assist in the design, future studies and deployment of WSNs in the real world. Key–Words: Wireless Sensor Networks, Propagation Characteristics, MICAz Motes