Investigating Clustering Algorithms in Microsensor Networks.

The design of a microsensor network has to be carried out under several constraints, e.g., limited energy source and dynamic network topology. One practical design scheme in WSNs is clustering. Clustering is an energy efficient and scalable way to organize the WSN. Clustering can stabilize the network topology at the level of sensors and thus cuts on topology maintenance overhead. Recently, a number of clustering algorithms have been specifically designed for WSNs. These proposed clustering techniques widely vary depending on the overall network architectural and operation model and their objectives. In this paper, classification of clustering algorithms is carried out i.e. as energy efficient type, duty cycle control type and third type is the one derived from classic graphic theory. In this paper focus is on the energy efficient type of clustering protocols. Furthermore, classification and analysis of energy efficient protocols viz. LEACH and PEGASIS is presented. Also a hybrid approach Hierarchical Chain-cluster scheme is introduced and the performance of all the three protocols is evaluated and comparison of them is done with the conventional Direct Transmission scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]