Cooperative spectrum sensing optimal threshold selection in cognitive radio networks

Abstract

In this article, an optimal threshold level value to improve spectrum sensing performance that satisfies minimum error probability is derived. Determining the threshold level to minimize sensing error with the minimum number of samples required can improve the detection performance, thus resulting in enhanced spectrum usage. A closed‐form expression for the optimal threshold level is derived, and further simplified by using the sensing error function along with the optimal weights and transmit powers to the decision‐making fusion center. Numerical results are provided and show improved sensing performance compared to conventional schemes.