Question

Which among the following is a concern of a primary user?

(a) Link maintenance probability

(b) Number of handoff

(c) Handoff latency

(d) Effective data rate

I have been asked this question in final exam.

My doubt stems from Next Generation Wireless Network topic in division Next Generation Wireless Network of Cognitive Radio

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

(d) Effective data rate

Explanation:

In the context of Next Generation Wireless Networks and Cognitive Radio systems, the primary user typically refers to the licensed user who holds the rights to a particular frequency band. The concerns of the primary user are related to the efficient use of the spectrum they own and ensuring that their service quality is maintained, especially in the presence of secondary (unlicensed) users.

Among the options:

• Link maintenance probability (option a) generally concerns the reliability of communication, but it's not specifically tied to primary users in the same way as effective data rate.
• Number of handoff (option b) and handoff latency (option c) are more associated with the mobility of users in the network, and while important for both primary and secondary users, they are not direct concerns for the primary user specifically in the context of cognitive radio.
• Effective data rate (option d) is directly tied to the primary user's concern, as it directly impacts the quality of service. The primary user wants to ensure that they maintain a high data rate for their communication, especially in dynamic environments where cognitive radios might opportunistically use the spectrum.

Thus, the effective data rate is a key concern for the primary user in a cognitive radio network environment.