Simulation Technique For Evaluating Cell-Loss Rate in ATM Networks

Abstract

Asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) is the transmission and switching system that has been adopted for next generation multimedia networks. It is based on statistical multiplexing techniques and the performance of an ATM based network is quantified by the quality of service, QoS, delivered to the network users. QoS is defined in terms of the maximum cell loss rate and the delay/jitter allowable for a given network service connection. Normally, network performance is evaluated through the use of either mathematical or computer simulation modelling. The two model types differ in their individual limitations and the extent to which they can represent the real system. In this application, a computer simulation model has the advantage of flexibility and accuracy but is limited by the extent to which cell loss rate can be calculated. For video services, for example, a cell loss rate of 1 E-11 is specified which would require an unacceptably high amount of computer simulation time to investigate. In order to investigate such issues, therefore, this paper describes an approach which integrates both mathematical and computer simulation modelling. Simulation results are presented to prove the validity of the proposed approach, which is applicable for use in other application environments involving rare-event occurrences.