Wubie Engdew

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) enable new applications and require non-conventional paradigms for protocol design due to several constraints. Owing to the requirement for low device complexity together with low energy consumption (i.e., long network lifetime), a proper balance between communication and signal/data processing capabilities must be found. This motivates a huge effort in research activities, standardization process, and industrial investments on this field since the last decade. This survey paper aims at reporting an overview of WSNs technologies, main applications and standards, features in WSNs design, and evolutions. In particular, some peculiar applications, such as those based on environmental monitoring, are discussed and design strategies highlighted; a case study based on a real implementation is also reported. Trends and possible evolutions are traced. Emphasis is given to the IEEE 802.15.4 technology, which enables many applications of WSNs. Some example of performance characteristics of 802.15.4-based networks are shown and discussed as a function of the size of the WSN and the data type to be exchanged among nodes.

—As wireless sensor technology improves; an increasing number of organizations are using it for a wide range of purposes. ZigBee technology is a new standard in wireless personal garea after Bluetooth. After an introduction to this technology, a new wireless meter-reading system based on ZigBee protocol has evolved. This system, which is comprised of ZigBee network and database management system, has many important advantages such as low cost, low power consumption, and low date rate. Wireless Sensor Network based on ZigBee technology is a wireless network which is composed of many nodes of ZigBee RF chip, sensor and MCU, especially suitable for application of the remote monitoring system in flammable and explosive environment. Fusion of RFID and Zigbee is also possible which turn out to be boon for wireless sensor network technology. A complete overview of wireless sensor network technology is given in this paper. Wireless sensor network technology has become one of technological basic needs of us.