Packet detection in point-to-point wireless communication networks

A node comprising:

• an RF (radio frequency) chain including a receiver to receive a plurality of packets;
• an adjustable gain amplifier of the RF chain operative to adjust a power level of the received plurality of packets;
• a processor;
• and
• a memory for storing program instructions that are executable by the processor to:
• operate a gain control module to control a gain of the adjustable gain amplifier, thereby controlling the power level of the received plurality of packets;
• monitor the controlled gain of the gain control module over a period of time, comprising monitoring the controlled gain while the gain control module is operating in a free-running mode without any external control for the period of time, and wherein the gain of the adjustable gain amplifier is not fixed;
• after the period of time, select a maximum gain for the gain control module based on a distribution of the monitored controlled gain of the gain control module over the period of time, wherein the maximum gain is a maximum level of gain provided;
• control the gain of the adjustable gain amplifier based on the selected maximum gain.