Optimization of SU's probability of false alarm for dynamic spectrum access in cognitive radio

This paper presents optimization of sensing-transmission structure for dynamic spectrum access in cognitive radios with respect to Secondary User's probability of false alarm. In opportunistic spectrum access, the white spaces in the transmissions of primary users (PUs) have to be sensed and utilized by Secondary Users (SU). There is a continuous tradeoff between the competing goals of PU transmission protection and SU access maximization. To maximize the SU utility its probability of false alarm is optimized with respect to collision cost in a threshold based sensing-transmission structure using simulation. The results are presented in the form of traces of thresholds for different probabilities of false alarm and collision costs. This scheme optimizes SU throughput while safeguarding PU interests. It sets a standard and gives an insight for the design of sensing-transmission scheduling in cognitive radio networks such as IEEE 802.2.