Power-induced time division on asynchronous channels

Time division multiple access offers certain well-known advantages over met hods such as spread spectrum code division. Foremost is the interference im munity provided by dedicated time slots. Partly offsetting this is TDMA's n eed for network-wide synchronization. Viewing arbitrary time intervals as p otential TDMA time slots, we ask whether it is possible to obtain some of t he benefit of time division without incurring the synchronization cost. In particular, we address the question of whether a TDMA-like state can be ind uced on asynchronous channels in such a way as to reduce interference and e nergy consumption. Through analysis and simulation we find conditions under which it is beneficial to use time division, and then show how autonomous power management may be used as a mechanism to induce a form of time divisi on. In this context a backlog-sensitive power management system is presente d.