The 3-tier structured access protocol to control unfairness in DQDB MANs

Presents a 3-tier structured access protocol to address the unfairness problems in DQDB. These domains subdivide the access mechanism (depending on the aggregate network traffic) and address the dominating cause of unfairness. At low loads, the 802.6 mechanism is retained. The second domain addresses latency-related unfairness. At heavy loads, access protection is applied. Emphasis is given to the graded (or symmetric) load type, which is the most natural load pattern in a unidirectional channel. The proposed fair access protocol is studied under different load types and traffic demand. A tuning scheme is also outlined that extends the potential for dynamic bandwidth allocation.<>