Determination of Reliability Parameters of a Digital Multiplex Frame Strategy Using Markov Chains and a State Reduction Method

This paper discusses the analysis of a digital multiplex framing strategy to determine certain reliability parameters for the frame synchronization system. The only model found suitable for determining the desired parameters is a Markov chain with ~ 5 × 105 states. To make meaningful calculations using this Markov chain, a state reduction method is employed. This method makes possible a determination of mean time between failures, availability, and several other parameters as a function of channel error rate. The model and analysis are applied to a framing strategy of greater complexity than those reported in the literature. The analysis makes it possible to include several effects, such as channel errors during the frame search operation, which are not possible with other methods.