An Efficient Algorithm for Cooperative Spectrum Sensing in Cognitive Radio Networks

Abstract: We consider the problem of Spectrum Sensing in Cognitive Radio Systems. We have developed a distributed algorithm that the Secondary users can run to sense the channel cooperatively. It is based on sequential detection algorithms which optimally use the past observations. We use the algorithm on secondary users with energy detectors although it can be used with matched filter and other spectrum sensing algorithms also. The algorithm provides very low detection delays and also consumes little energy. Furthermore it causes low interference to the primary users. We compare this algorithm to several recently proposed algorithms and show that it detects changes in spectrum faster than these algorithms and uses significantly less energy.