ARQ protocols with adaptive block size perform better over a wide range of bit error rates

The throughput of conventional automatic-repeat-request (ARQ) protocols, such as the stop-and-wait, go-back-N, and selective repeat, can be improved by dynamically adapting the protocol block length so that it approaches the optimum value for varying channel bit error rates. A very simple algorithm to implement such an adaptive scheme is presented. The algorithm assumes a known block error rate, estimates the bit error rate, and determines the best block length. Results of a simulation study show that in spite of its simplicity, the algorithm performs well