ATM networks for factory communication

Abstract

In this paper the authors discuss the suitability of the Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) as a data transfer technology for factory communications. The paper will focus on the special requirements of the sensor/actuator level to transmit real-rime control data via an ATM network. A performance analysis of a potential ATM system on fieldbus level is presented by providing simulation results. The simulations study the influence of different network topologies, ATM cell scheduling strategies and the presence of video streams on the transmission of real-time control data.