A rural messaging network using spread ALOHA access with VSAT satellite terminals

Abstract

This paper underlines the characteristics of a proposed mesh network for messaging applications in C-band using spread ALOHA protocol. A simulation program has been developed for studying the behaviour of large networks employing ALOHA access or its variants. It is a simulation for a large population network consisting of thin traffic small messaging terminals (SMTs), and models an infinite user population which employs fixed length data packets. The program is general and allows for the study of either the mesh or the star connected networks. Certain variations of the classical ALOHA schemes, such as slotted ALOHA (with user selectable slot length) and spread ALOHA, have been studied for network operation. In the case of spread ALOHA access, the program can be run with Barker, pseudorandom, Ping Fai Li or any other spreading sequence. The results of the simulation have confirmed the utility of spread ALOHA as an access protocol for MESCOMNET. It has identified an operating point on the throughput-traffic curve at which spread advantage is available for power reduction of SMTs.