United States Patent 7,917,092
Iacono , et al. March 29, 2011
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Beam selection apparatus and method in voice over internet protocol over switched beam wireless local area network
Abstract
An apparatus and a method for improving packet transmission and reducing latency in VoIP over WLAN using switched beam antennas having multiple directional antenna beams are disclosed. In an access point having a switched beam antenna, or other smart antenna system, the present invention extends the coverage area of an access point for authentication and association of a new WTRU, extends the access points coverage area during in session transmissions with a WTRU, and adjusts data rates. The method also controls Contention Period (CP)/Contention Free Period (CFP) timing amongst beams emanating from an access point having a switched beam antenna, or other smart antenna system. Fast diversity switching, frame level switching, lowered data rates, and scanning multiple directional antenna beams for the optimum transmission beam are disclosed to improve beam selection and packet transmission.
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Inventors: Iacono; Ana Lucia (Garden City, NY), Chandra; Arty (Manhasset Hills, NY), Cha; Inhyok (Yardley, PA), Chen; John S. (Downingtown, PA), Li; Yingxue (Exton, PA), Otto; James C. (Melbourne, FL)
Assignee: InterDigital Technology Corporation (Wilmington, DE)
Appl. No.: 11/302,299
Filed: December 13, 2005
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application Number Filing Date Patent Number Issue Date
60636334 Dec., 2004
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Current U.S. Class: 455/63.4 ; 370/338; 455/562.1; 455/575.7; 455/67.11
Current International Class: H04B 1/00 (20060101); H04B 17/00 (20060101); H04B 15/00 (20060101); H04M 1/00 (20060101); H04W 4/00 (20090101)
Field of Search: 455/562.1,41.2,63.4,67.11,63.1,575.7 370/338
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