Workpackage 5 - InterMAC, Convergence layer

The Inter-MAC work package is a central part of the OMEGA network. It defines a technology independent convergence sub-layer between the network protocol (IP) layer and the MAC layers of the different physical layer technologies defined in WP2, WP3 and WP4. The layered approach for the Inter-MAC sub-layer guarantees compatibility with the rest of the protocol stack.

Every OMEGA device will contain the Inter-MAC functionality. It allows communication among OMEGA devices (see WP6) in a heterogeneous meshed network. For this purpose Inter-MAC includes QoS aware path finding algorithms. A path can extend over several hops with heterogeneous physical technologies in the OMEGA network. OMEGA paths have guaranteed throughput and are secured end-to-end by state of the art encryption and key distribution techniques. End-to-end encryption minimises energy consumption while maintaining high security level. Inter-MAC contains control and management plane functionality such as path setup and monitoring functions, respectively.