Demand-assigned multiple-access systems using collision-type request channels: stability and delay considerations

Stability and delay characteristics are developed for a demand-assigned multiple-access (DAMA) scheme which employs multiple message channels and multiple collision-type request channels, and which is capable of high traffic capacity. Trade-offs among delay, stability, and bandwidth utilisation, are investigated using an approximate analysis based on expected value-performance measurements. It is shown that by operating only a few per cent below capacity a dramatic decrease in average delay is attainable while maintaining absolute stability. The scheme is particularly appropriate for single-channel-per-carrier applications with many low-duty-cycle users.