• Deterministic and Synchronous Multi-channel Extens
• IEEE 802.15.4e

In the last years Wireless Sensor and Actuator Networks (WSAN) are becoming more and more attractive also for critical applications, such as industrial monitoring. In this context the IEEE 802.15.4e is expected to play a very relevant role, thanks to many enhancements introduced with respect to to the original IEEE 802.15.4 standard. Among the new defined MAC protocols, \textit{Deterministic and Synchronous Multi-channel Extension} (DSME) represents the most suitable choice for critical applications with strict timing requirements. In this thesis, an analysis of the IEEE 802.15.4e DSME MAC protocol during network formation phase is presented. The goal is to examine the protocol behavior and propose solutions to reduce the network setup time and the related energy consumption. To carry out the performance evaluation, DSME has been fully implemented in Contiki OS, an actual operating system for sensor nodes. The analysis highlighted issues and inefficiencies in the network formation process, allowing to consequently propose effective solutions. Specifically, a methodology for appropriate DSME parameter setting, as well as modification in the node behavior, are proposed. The results obtained show that the proposed solution can improve significantly the network formation efficiency.