Delay analysis for interlan traffic using two suitable TDMA satellite access schemes

Two demand assignment TDMA satellite access schemes that are suitable for providing flexible interconnections of local area networks are compared by means of simulation: FODA/IBEA and CFRA. A unique simulation tool was used, a meshed network of VSATs under the control of a master station was considered and similar networking conditions were applied to both access schemes. The generated traffic had two components having different level of burstiness: bulk traffic and interactive traffic. The performance evaluated is the delay for each traffic component. We show that CFRA is best when connecting clusters of only a few stations and even individual ones exchanging light traffic. FODA/IBEA, on the other hand, is better suited to interconnect networks, or within networks with many hosts, where heavy traffic is more likely.