An overview of the IEEE 802.15.4a Standard

Key Points

• To review the specifications, features, and capabilities introduced by the IEEE 802.15.4a standard for precision ranging and wireless personal area networks.
• Examined the architectural and physical layer amendments made to the IEEE 802.15.4-2006 baseline standard.
• Assessed new physical layer options designed for distance measurement, mobile robustness, and high-rate data communication in low-rate wireless personal area networks.
• Defined the first international standard establishing a wireless physical layer capable of high-precision ranging and accurate device location determination.
• Provided physical layer enhancements that support higher data transfer rates, wider operational range, improved interference mitigation, and dynamic mobility.