A distributed embedded web based automated testbed for wireless sensor networks

Tests of distributed wireless networks pose various challenges with regard to node, link, path, and management problems. In this contribution a novel testbed architecture is presented, which helps in the development of distributed wireless networks. In the case of our project, it helped with the development of a routing protocol for energy autarkic network nodes. The testbed contains various elements: The major part is an embedded web server using web and AJAX technology. Thus, the management servers resources can be kept extremely lean, and a large number of those nodes can potentially be dislocated throughout the network. The server includes an extremely streamlined JavaScript-library for use on very lean microcontrollers. Further elements include a wave-guided bread-board RF installation, fully controlled by software in order to automatically run as many test-cases as possible and automatic test routines in the wireless nodes to significantly reduce the effort of regression tests.