An efficient method for computing cell loss probability for heterogeneous bursty traffic in ATM networks

In this paper, we present an approximation for the probability of cell loss of heterogeneous bursty traffic in broadband integrated packet networks based on the asynchronous transfer mode. The sources considered here alternate between active and silent periods and are characterized by their peak and average transmission rates. The cell loss probability is obtained by considering only the number of active sources at a given time and computing the amount of traffic that exceeds the link capacity. Since the amount of buffered excess traffic is not considered in this computation, this approximation is actually an upper bound of the cell loss probability. The numerical efficiency of this bound enables it to be used as a measure based on which robust and simple resource allocation strategies can be developed for bursty sources. Comparison of this bound with the simulation results has shown that the bound is close to the actual loss probabilities especially for large burst lengths and high utilizations.     

Network characterization using constraint-based definitions of capacity, utilization, and efficiency

Capacity planning in an operational network requires continuous monitoring of network resources so that corrective actions can be taken in response to changes in traffic patterns, performance requirements, and network technology. In this article we characterize network resources in terms of capacity, utilization, and efficiency, and define these metrics as functions of the sets of constraints under which the network is operating. These constraints may include service level agreement objectives, routing policy constraints, and failure survivability requirements. Constraint-based network characterization allows a network operator to quantify the inherent capacity of a network and determine the impact of changes in operating conditions on realizable capacity. It also helps assess how well a given network design matches the set of constraints under which it is operating, how much traffic growth the network can support, and what actions need to be taken to accommodate traffic growth.     

Next-generation satellite networks: architectures andimplementations

A new generation of satellite networks is being developed to handle highly bursty Internet and multimedia traffic. In these networks, satellite links are used for interconnecting remote network segments as well as for providing direct network access to homes and businesses. In this environment, the satellite network must support not only circuit switched traffic, but also packet services with highly bursty traffic patterns. The traditional circuit switched approach based on the user or network signaling is inadequate to carry dynamically varying packet traffic efficiently, necessitating faster bandwidth allocation solutions. Standard interworking solutions and air interfaces are very important for interoperability leading to proliferation of satellite networks to potentially millions of home and business users. In this article we provide an overview of the standardization effort that has started at the TIA in the area of satellite ATM networks. Subsequently, a bandwidth-on-demand multiservice satellite network architecture implementation is described     

Voice over IP service and performance in satellite networks

Voice over IP services have emerged as a low-cost alternative to PSTN voice service, and an attractive solution for voice/data integration in public and private networks. Satellite systems, as an integral part of the global communications infrastructure, already have an increasing portion of their capacities used to carry data packets, and with their global coverage and reach to remote areas are well positioned to enable growth of VoIP services. For VoIP over satellite, several issues need to be addressed. These include transmission and quality of service issues, as well as service-related issues such as service creation and customization, support of IN and supplementary services, and seamless integration with the PSTN. While the service-related aspects of VoIP are common to both terrestrial and satellite networks, transport-related issues are different. This article reports performance results of laboratory experiments for evaluating VoIP over satellite under different link and traffic conditions     

Entropy-driven on-line control of autonomous robots

A new approach to on-line path planning is derived in this paper. The planning algorithm is motivated by robot navigation and manipulation tasks in uncertain, unstructured, dynamic environments. A minimum entropy evidential classifier is used to recognize targets and obstacles in the environment. An iterative Newton scheme is then used to generate a sequence of knot points that guide the motion of the robot. The acquisition and processing of sensory data continue during the motion, thus reducing the uncertainty about the environment. The classification of targets and obstacles is updated, and the path is replanned (locally) to adapt to those changes. A graphical tool based on the concept of Julia sets is used to ensure the predictability and smoothness of the paths.     

An IP transport and routing architecture for next-generationsatellite networks

Over the past several years, a number of new satellite systems have been proposed to provide high-speed Internet and multimedia services to businesses and home users. These proposals have been driven by the desire of network operators to reach end users that do not have cost effective access to other alternatives such as fiber, DSL, and cable, and by the availability of new spectrum (Ka-band) for use by new satellite services. The proposed systems generally employ multiple high-power spot beams, an onboard fast packet switch, and a demand-assigned multiple access scheme to provision IP-based services. In this article we concentrate on a geosynchronous satellite system where packet transport and switching within the satellite system are based on ATM. We describe an IP/ATM interworking and IP routing architecture that is driven by three main requirements: (1) the ability to support ATM SVCs between hundreds of thousands of satellite terminals by a single ATM switch located onboard; (2) a scalable IP routing architecture that does not result in large volumes of routing traffic to be transported over the satellite; and (3) the ability to segment the satellite terminals for routing and administrative control by ISPs and enterprise networks