VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.

227-0557-00L 6 Credits BSC , DS , DR , MSC D-USYS , D-BAUG , D-MAVT , D-INFK , D-MTEC , D-MATH , D-BIOL , D-GESS , D-ITET , D-ARCH , D-CHAB
You're viewing possible stale or outdated data. Please check the latest semester for more up-to-date information.

Ad Hoc and Sensor Networks

Ad Hoc und Sensor Netzwerke

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Roger Wattenhofer
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:14:58

Abstract

We study emerging wireless networks such as sensor or ad hoc networks. Our goal is to get a deeper understanding of these self-organizing networks, from theory to applications. Topics include: Applications, Modeling, Media Access, Topology Control, Clustering, Time Synchronization, Localization & Positioning, Routing & Data Gathering.

Objective

Thousands of mini computers (in size comparable to a chewing gum), equipped with sensors, are deployed in some terrain. After activation the sensors form a self-organized network and provide data, for example about a forthcoming earthquake. The trend towards wireless communication affects more and more electronic devices in almost every sphere of life. Conventional networks rely on base stations, and the mobile devices exchange the data in a star-like fashion. In contrast, current research is mainly focused on networks that are completely unstructured, but are nevertheless able to communicate (via several hops), despite the low coverage of their antennas. Such systems are called sensor, ad hoc, or mesh networks, depending on the point of view and the application. Since a few years, these networks are the focus of the research of the networking community. The goal of the lecture is to elaborate the relevant aspects of the field, from theory to practice. Course pre-requisites: Basic networking knowledge, basic algorithms knowledge. Course language: English written, German or English spoken.

Content

Applications, Modeling, Media Access, Topology Control, Clustering, Time Synchronization, Localization & Positioning, Routing & Data Gathering.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Available

Literature

Algorithms for Sensor and Ad Hoc Networks Dorothea Wagner and Roger Wattenhofer Springer ISBN-10: 3-540-74990-X ISBN-13: 9783540749905

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
German
Levels
BSC , DS , DR , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 60 minutes
Aids
None

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Ad Hoc und Sensor Netzwerke
  • Mon 13:15-15:00 (ETF C 1)
2 h weekly
exercise Ad Hoc und Sensor Netzwerke
  • Mon 15:15-17:00 (ETF C 1)
2 h weekly

Offered In