ABSTRACT
Th e IEEE 802.16 standard series represents the state-of-the-art in technology for metropolitan area broadband wireless access networks. Th e point-to-multipoint (PMP) mode of IEEE 802.16 has been designed to enable quality of service (QoS) in operator-controlled networks and, thus, is foreseen to complement existing third-generation cellular networks. In contrast, the optional mesh (MESH) mode of operation in IEEE 802.16 enables the setup of self-organizing wireless multi-hop mesh networks. A distinguishing characteristic of the IEEE 802.16 standard series is its support for QoS at the Medium Access Control (MAC) layer. However, the QoS specifi cations and mechanisms for the PMP and the MESH mode are not consistent. Th is article presents a novel QoS architecture as a key enhancement to the IEEE 802.16 MESH mode of operation. Th e architecture is based on the QoS mechanisms outlined for the PMP mode and, thus, enables a seamless coexistence
of the PMP and the MESH mode. In particular, we look at the various options the standard provides and the trade off s involved when implementing QoS support in the 802.16 MESH mode, with a focus on the effi cient management of the available bandwidth resources. Th is article is meant to provide researchers and implementers crucial anchor points for further research.
