MAC Protocol of WiMAX Mesh Network

WiMAX based on IEEE std 802.16 is believed one of the important technologies of 4G. It aims to provide high-speed access over distance of several to tens kilometers. In IEEE std 802.16-2004, WiMAX defines an optional mesh mode, with which multi-hop, multi-route, self-organizing and self-healing communications can be achieved in metropolitan-level areas. This chapter presents medium access control (MAC) protocol of WiMAX mesh mode, on frame structure, network configuration, network entry, and scheduling algorithms. It also summaries the most recent progress on data slots resource scheduling and allocation algorithms. Finally, an application example of using WiMAX mesh network for high-speed and low-cost maritime communications is also presented in this chapter.