A Survey of Performance Metrics for Spectrum Sensing and Spectrum Hole Geolocation for Wireless Spectrum Access

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Computer Science
• Telecommunications

Background:

• Cognitive radio networks enable dynamic spectrum access (DSA) by allowing secondary users to opportunistically utilize licensed spectrum.
• Effective spectrum sensing and spectrum hole geolocation are critical for efficient DSA operation and minimizing interference.
• Traditional performance evaluation relies heavily on probabilities of detection and false alarm, which may not fully capture complex operational requirements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive survey of performance metrics relevant to spectrum sensing and spectrum hole geolocation in DSA cognitive radio networks.
• To extend the evaluation framework beyond conventional metrics, addressing sensing reliability, interference risk, spatial accuracy, and network efficiency.
• To provide researchers and practitioners with practical guidelines and a broader set of tools for evaluating DSA system performance.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of performance metrics for spectrum sensing and geolocation in cognitive radio networks.
• Categorization and analysis of metrics based on their relevance to sensing reliability, interference, spatial accuracy, and network efficiency.
• Discussion of the trade-offs inherent in selecting and applying different performance metrics.

Main Results:

• Identification and detailed review of specialized performance metrics beyond standard detection and false alarm probabilities.
• Emphasis on metrics that quantify sensing reliability, potential interference, geolocation accuracy, and overall network efficiency.
• Highlighting the critical trade-offs between various metrics and their practical implications in DSA deployments.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive set of performance metrics is essential for robust evaluation of spectrum sensing and geolocation in DSA cognitive radio networks.
• Moving beyond traditional metrics provides a more nuanced understanding of system performance and facilitates practical deployment.
• The survey offers valuable evaluation tools for researchers and practitioners, promoting more effective and efficient use of the radio spectrum.