Single-hop

Definition

Single-hop refers to a communication model where data is transmitted directly from a source node to a destination node in a single transmission without the need for intermediate nodes. This model is characterized by its simplicity and low latency, making it suitable for certain types of wireless sensor networks where direct communication is possible, such as in star or point-to-point topologies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Single-hop communication is often used in star topologies, where sensor nodes communicate directly with a central hub or gateway.
2. Because there are no intermediate nodes involved, single-hop communication can reduce the potential for data loss and simplifies network management.
3. In scenarios where nodes are within close proximity, single-hop can enhance energy efficiency since less power is required compared to multi-hop transmissions.
4. Single-hop setups typically experience lower latency than multi-hop systems due to the direct nature of communication.
5. While single-hop has advantages, its effectiveness is limited by the distance between nodes; if nodes are too far apart, multi-hop strategies may be necessary.

Review Questions

• How does single-hop communication influence network design in wireless sensor networks?
  • Single-hop communication simplifies network design by allowing direct connections between nodes and the central hub, often seen in star topologies. This design reduces complexity in routing algorithms since there are no intermediate hops required. Consequently, it also leads to reduced latency and less chance of data loss, making it ideal for applications where quick and reliable communication is essential.
• Compare and contrast single-hop and multi-hop communication in terms of latency and energy efficiency.
  • Single-hop communication typically offers lower latency compared to multi-hop because data travels directly from the source to the destination without additional processing or delays caused by intermediate nodes. In terms of energy efficiency, single-hop can be more efficient when nodes are close together since they expend less power during transmission. However, as distances increase or when network density varies, multi-hop might become necessary despite its higher latency and potential for increased energy consumption.
• Evaluate the implications of using single-hop communication in scenarios with varying distances between sensor nodes.
  • Using single-hop communication in scenarios where sensor nodes are widely spaced can lead to significant challenges. If nodes exceed the maximum range for single-hop transmissions, they cannot communicate directly, potentially leading to network coverage gaps. While single-hop setups provide efficiency and low latency for nearby nodes, reliance on this model in diverse environments may necessitate hybrid approaches or switching to multi-hop strategies to maintain effective communication across all nodes.

Related terms

Multi-hop: A communication model where data is transmitted from the source to the destination through one or more intermediate nodes, allowing for greater range and flexibility in wireless sensor networks.

Latency:

The delay between the initiation of a data transmission and its successful reception at the destination, which can be minimized in single-hop communication.

Topology: The arrangement of different elements (nodes) in a network, which influences how data is transmitted and affects the performance and efficiency of communication.