Nonlinear dynamics in telecommunication systems: complex behaviour in nonlinear processing systems

Nonlinear dynamic techniques are used to create a theoretical framework, from which the development, analysis and evaluation of a nonlinear model of a generalised switching element in a telecommunications network is investigated. The model represents the data flow through nonpreemptive multiprocess data processor systems found in communication nodes. A numerical solution to the model is presented, and is used in computer simulations to analyse the behaviour of both a single processing element and a multiprocessor array of switching nodes, in response to different input data streams. Presentation of resulting data is done using time domain and multidimensional phase space techniques which identify transitions between behaviour as the system parameter values are varied. A range of behaviour including stable, unstable chaotic and unbounded modes is identified, the impact on network performance is assessed