A simple architecture for intelligent multiplexing in a voice-oriented tactical ATM network

Abstract

First, this paper compares performance characteristics of circuit switching and asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) switching in a low transmission rate, voice-oriented tactical network. Then, a simple architecture for intelligent multiplexing voice traffic and data traffic to achieve higher bandwidth utilization is presented. The efficiency of circuit switching is known to be no more than 40%. In an ATM network, the voice traffic will be processed according to the ATM Adaptation Layer (AAL) type 1, defined by the ATM Forum or a nonstandard vendor-defined AAL format. For any choice of AAL format, the efficiency of voice traffic under ATM switching without intelligent multiplexing will be lower than in circuit switching. The architecture, which is described in this paper, can provide higher bandwidth utilization while preserving the Grade of Service (GOS) and the Quality of Service (QOS) of existing voice connections. >