802.11ak MAC Functions
What is the primary role of MAC functions in 802.11ak?
MAC functions manage deterministic access to the wireless medium, ensuring low-latency and reliable transmissions.
How does 802.11ak MAC support deterministic scheduling?
By using time-slotted channel access and scheduled resource unit assignments for precise transmission timing.
What MAC enhancements does 802.11ak introduce over previous standards?
It introduces scheduled access, deterministic timing control, and improved QoS for time-sensitive applications.
How does MAC handle coexistence with legacy Wi-Fi devices?
MAC maintains compatibility by coordinating deterministic transmissions alongside legacy CSMA/CA access methods.
What is the role of resource unit (RU) allocation in 802.11ak MAC?
RUs define specific frequency-time slots assigned by the MAC for deterministic, collision-free transmissions.
Does 802.11ak MAC use any special frame types?
Yes, it supports enhanced management and control frames to facilitate scheduling and timing coordination.
How does MAC improve latency with 802.11ak?
By controlling medium access through scheduled slots, minimizing contention and wait times.
What MAC mechanisms support reliability in 802.11ak?
Retransmission scheduling, link quality monitoring, and error correction integration are part of MAC’s functions.
How is time synchronization managed at the MAC layer?
MAC protocols exchange timing information regularly to maintain precise synchronization among devices.
Can 802.11ak MAC dynamically adapt to traffic changes?
Yes, the MAC scheduler adjusts resource assignments based on network load and application demands.
What are the power management capabilities at the MAC layer in 802.11ak?
MAC supports power saving by scheduling transmissions to allow devices to sleep during inactive periods.
How does 802.11ak MAC support multi-user transmissions?
Through coordinated resource unit assignments and spatial multiplexing in OFDMA-based PHY.
What QoS features are integrated into 802.11ak MAC?
Prioritized scheduling and traffic differentiation ensure timely delivery of critical data.
How does MAC ensure low jitter for time-sensitive traffic?
By enforcing strict timing constraints and minimizing contention-related delays.
Does 802.11ak MAC support uplink and downlink scheduling?
Yes, MAC coordinates both uplink and downlink transmissions for deterministic communication.
How is collision avoidance handled by 802.11ak MAC?
Scheduled transmissions eliminate collisions by allocating dedicated time-frequency resources.
What kind of MAC frame exchanges are unique to 802.11ak?
Scheduled resource request/response and timing synchronization frames tailored for deterministic operation.
How does 802.11ak MAC interact with PHY layer?
MAC controls PHY resource units and timing to ensure synchronized and efficient data transmissions.
Is MAC in 802.11ak customizable for different application needs?
Yes, MAC scheduling and QoS parameters can be tuned to meet specific latency and reliability requirements.
Where can I find more detailed technical info about 802.11ak MAC functions?
Consult the IEEE 802.11ak standard documents and related technical whitepapers from Wi-Fi Alliance and vendors.
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