Physical layer repeater with selective use of higher layer functions based on network operating conditions

Abstract

A physical layer frequency translating repeater for use in a wireless network can include a baseband section with demodulator, a processor and a memory. A portion of a packet for repeating can be processed during a physical layer repeating operation and a higher layer function performed without modification of an address. A received signal can be processed on a symbol-by-symbol basis in a first symbol interval, and regenerated after at least a second symbol interval and prior to completion of the demodulating the received signal. A hybrid network device can include a network node portion and a physical layer repeater portion.