Abstract: An ARQ feedback message provides feedback information on a series of sequential data blocks received by a receiver (26). The ARQ feedback message comprises an information element (900). The information element (900) indicates for each sequence of a plurality of sequences of the series of sequential data blocks whether each sequence of data blocks has been received. The information element comprises at least one bit for indicating that the information element provides feedback information only for sequences of data blocks beginning with a first data block of a first sequence of the plurality of sequences. The information element is a Block Sequence type information element without cumulative acknowledgement.

Abstract: A medium-reservation mechanism improves transmission efficiency in a multiple-channel network that includes stations with limited-selectivity receivers. The mechanism employs a medium-request signal that conveys channel information. In this network, stations check the channel information in the medium-request signal to decide whether or not to comply with the medium-request signal. If the channel information identifies the channel that is close to the channel that the station is presently operating on, the station then complies with the medium-request signal. If the channel information identifies a channel other than the channel that the station is presently operating on, the station ignores the medium-request signal.

Abstract: A method of data transmission employing frame bursting to improve traffic in a WLAN system. According to a representative embodiment of the invention, a variable parameter set, VPS[n], is provided to a channel access function in the process of obtaining a transmission opportunity (TXOP) for a corresponding access category, AC-n, at a wireless station of the WLAN system. The variation of one or more values in VPS[n] is based on the amount of buffered traffic and is preferably performed such that, when a TXOP is granted, AC-n has buffered an amount of traffic suitable for transmission using frame bursting in such a manner that the service and back-off overheads for AC-n are substantially reduced. Due to the overhead reduction, more channel time becomes available to traffic from other access categories and/or wireless stations. For example, bursting video traffic in accordance with the invention may significantly improve best-effort traffic. In addition, less channel time may be lost to collisions.