Hybrid time synchronization for Underwater Sensor Networks

Abstract

<p>Time synchronization is a critical part of distributed applications over a sensor network. In this work we investigate time synchronization problems over UWSN deployed in shallow water, taking into account all main communication challenges of the water channel and observing its behavior in simulation and real tests. A hybrid frame was proposed based on time synchronization using both LFM and OFDM communication with channel impulse response equalization. Simulation results show how Hybrid synchronization outperforms existing synchronization protocols and how these results are affected in real underwater tests.</p>