Cross Layer Architecture for Maintaining QoS in Multimedia Applications

Background/Objectives: Multimedia Applications on Mobile Ad hoc Networks (MANETs) are gaining immense popularity recently due to their necessity in latest environments. Hence, multimedia applications like video streaming, video conferencing and environment monitoring must be made possible in real-time in Mobile Ad hoc Networks. Mobility of nodes, life of battery, changes in topology and protocols affect the performance of MANET. Hence providing good Quality of Service (QoS) for multimedia applications in MANET is a challenge. Methods/Statistical Analysis: The RED algorithm with video precedence called as SiViRED (Significant Video Information Random Early Detection) - AQM in the Network layer that provides service differentiation based on the pre-assigned service classes and video packet drop priority specified in packet header. This will reduce congestion and decrease delay and jitter when compared to conventional methods. Findings: Proposed a novel technique that uses a cross layer architecture in which information from application layer is used with UDPLite in Transport layer and Active Queue Management (AQM) with SiViRED in Network Layer with modified dynamic mapping in MAC layer that guarantees 14% increase in Peak Signal to Noise Ratio (PSR) and 40% decrease in delay compared to conventional methods. Application/Improvements: Developed a cross layer technique that improves the end-to-end performance of multimedia services over Mobile Ad hoc Networks.