Overlapping priority contention windows for G3 power line communications networks

摘要

Embodiments of methods and systems for overlapping priority contention windows in G3-PLC networks are presented. In one embodiment, a Normal Priority Contention Window (NPCW) is allowed to overlap with a High Priority Contention Window (HPCW). The minimum contention window for the normal priority frames (i.e., NPCW) is equal to or longer than the contention window for high priority frames (i.e., HPCW). By making the NPCW longer than the HPCW, the high priority frames will have a better chance than normal priority frames to get access to the channel on transmission reattempts.

主权项

1. A method for accessing a channel used by high priority frames and normal priority frames, comprising:
performing, by a power line communication (PLC) transmitter device,
generating a normal priority data packet;calculating a back-off time using a back-off exponent value;starting at the beginning of a high priority contention window, delay for the back-off time; andafter the back-off time delay, attempt to access the channel during the high priority contention window.