"Describing the relevant detection and estimation theory, this detailed guide provides the background knowledge needed to tackle the design of practical WLAN positioning systems. It sets out key system-level challenges and design considerations in increasing positioning accuracy and reducing computational complexity, and it also examines design trade-offs and experimental results. Radio characteristics in real environments are discussed, as are the theoretical aspects of non-parametric statistical tools appropriate for modeling radio signals, statistical estimation techniques and the model-based stochastic estimators often used for positioning. A historical account of positioning systems in also included, giving graduate students, researchers and practitioners alike the perspective needed to understand the benefits and potential applications of WLAN positioning"-- Read more... Cover; WLAN Positioning Systems; Title; Copyright; Dedication; Contents; Preface; Part I: History and applications; 1 Positioning through the ages; 1.1 Origins of navigation; 1.2 The age of traditional navigation; 1.2.1 Navigation based on landmarks; 1.2.2 Celestial navigation; 1.2.3 The compass; 1.3 The age of exploration; 1.4 The age of modern navigation; 1.4.1 Radio-based systems; 1.4.2 Satellite-based systems; 1.5 Chapter summary; 2 Location-based services; 2.1 Market potential; 2.1.1 Industry analysis; Buyer power; Supplier power; Competitive rivalry; Industry growth rate