ATM for wireless networks

Abstract

Growing emphasis on broadband multimedia traffic has underlined the importance of asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) networks which are capable of accommodating demanding applications such as audio/video playback, image browsing, real-time voice/video transmission and interactive data exchange in a unified manner. However, the extension of ATM from wireline to wireless creates a new set of challenging issues. ATM standards are developed based on high data rates and reliable transmission links. This is in contrast to wireless channels where bandwidth is limited and error rates are high. Furthermore, existing ATM specifications are designed primarily to provide services to fixed end-terminals with little ability to adapt to mobile connections and the highly time-varying conditions associated with wireless networks. This paper surveys the major technical and service issues related to the deployment of ATM in third-generation wireless networks.