A decision and utility theory construct for dynamic spectrum access systems

Dynamic Spectrum Access (DSA) networks seek to opportunistically utilize unused RF capacity rather than relying on static spectrum assignments. The networks change their spectrum access characteristics such as frequency, power, and modulation to adapt and allow for access to spectrum while not causing harmful interference to other spectrum users. An essential element of DSA system operation is decision-making under uncertainty due to incomplete or inaccurate situational awareness. This paper describes ongoing efforts in applying decision and utility theory constructs to DSA systems. The construct combines elements of communications theory, formal value and utility axioms of probability and decision theory, and constraint satisfaction. It provides a mechanism that allows DSA systems to quantitatively evaluate options for attaining the desired capacity subject to constraints in radio performance, uncertainty in spectrum dynamics, operating cost, and avoidance of harmful interference to other spectrum users. The resulting construct provides insight into DSA operational trades for evaluating, ranking, and selecting alternative solutions. A decision-theoretic construct is developed and analyzed to illustrate the methodology and resulting trades among alternative utility function classes.