The authors study the loss performance of an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) multiplexer, whose input consists of the superposition of a multiplicity of heterogeneous on-off sources. The stochastic fluid flow approach yields the entire buffer occupancy probability distribution in terms of the solution of a linear differential equation system. The focus is on the numerical investigation of the steady-state behavior of models involving very large state spaces. A novel approximate technique is introduced allowing a dramatic reduction of the computational burden, so that the analysis of a large variety of traffic mixes becomes feasible. Many numerical results are presented to support the accuracy of the method. Applications of the analysis method are outlined.>

The loss performance is studied of an ATM (asynchronous transfer mode) multiplexer, whose input consists of the superposition of a multiplicity of homogeneous ON-OFF sources. The approach is based on the approximation of the actual input process by means of a suitably chosen two-state Markov modulated Poisson process (MMPP), as a simple and effective choice for the representation of the superimposed arrival streams. To accurately evaluate the cell loss performance, a matching procedure was developed which allows the derivation of a tight upper bound on the cell loss probability and the characterization of its asymptotic behavior as the buffer size increases. Moreover, this procedure yields insight into the multiplexer performance behavior, as the buffer size and the source parameters are varied, and clarifies the modeling limits implied by the choice of an approximating MMPP with only two states.>

An algorithmic model for the performance evaluation of the medium access control (MAC) protocol for a satellite system in an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) environment is presented. This model allows analysis of general load configurations and yields the mean value of the performance parameters (e.g. queue lengths and access delays). The model is based on a computer-oriented approach, and the characterization of the key model variables is obtained by means of an iterative procedure. A comparison of the model analysis results to those obtained by a simulative approach shows a satisfactory matching.>

The performance of an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) multiplexer whose input consists of the superposition of a multiplicity of homogeneous on-off sources modeled by a two-state Markovian process is studied. The approach is based on the approximation of the actual input process by means of a suitably chosen two-state Markov modulated Poisson process (MMPP), as a simple and effective choice for the representation of superposition arrival streams. To evaluate the cell loss performance, a new matching procedure that leads to accurate results compared to simulation is developed. The application limits of the proposed method are also discussed. The outstanding physical meaning of this procedure permits a deep insight into the multiplexer performance behavior as the source parameters and the multiplexer buffer size are varied.>

An access protocol suitable for asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) operation in an integrated service broadband metropolitan area network (MAN) is presented. This protocol is designed for a twin-bus optical network and is characterized by a fully distributed control mechanism. A detailed description of the MAC procedure and the results of its performance evaluation are given. In particular, the high fairness degree and the very high throughput values that are the distinctive features of this protocol are highlighted and compared with those relevant to the current version of the IEEE standard 802.6.>

A study has been carried out to ascertain the potential benefits of asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) in the context of satellite communications and to determine the most suitable system architectures. System design guidelines are examined, and the network architecture, transmission arrangements, multiplexing and switching schemes, medium access control, and protocol layering are discussed. Particular consideration is given to the definition of the onboard switch structure.>