A high performance virtual token-passing multiple-access method for multiple-bus local networks

Abstract

A new integrated demand-assignment multiple-access (DAMA) method for multiple-bus local networks (MBLNs) is proposed and evaluated. The performance of this method is shown to be superior to independent token-passing as well as to previously proposed integrated access schemes. V-STIA, a virtual token-passing extension of a modified explicit token-passing scheme called single-token integrated access (STIA), delivers the best overall performance at medium to heavy loads while achieving good light-load performance without collision detection. Consequently, V-STIA makes the fewest possible demands on interface capabilities for DAMA support in MBLNs. Additionally, V-STIA implementation does not require simultaneous transmit capability for correct operation and greatly reduces design complexity. Performance advantages of MBLNs over an equivalent bandwidth single-bus DAMA system are established.<>