Estimation of multiplexing gain in ATM tactical links

This paper evaluates the multiplexing gain we can reach on ATM radio-relay link, used for the purpose of inter-node transmission in the tactical networks. This link has limited capacity, e.g. from 2 up to 8 Mbps, and it can cause that profit of using ATM can be much less than expected. Note that ATM technology was mainly designed for integrated networks offering QoS (quality of service) guarantees. Additionally, a high profit of cell multiplexing was expected by using dynamic slot-to-cell allocation. The multiplexing gain in ATM tactical links is estimated under traffic conditions adequate for tactical networks. It means that the network should serve cell traffic generated by applications appropriate for modern command and control systems, e.g. based on transferring voice, data and video signals. For these applications, a level of the QoS is required. Therefore, only these ATM network services can be considered which guarantee appropriate QoS, at both the cell and call level, like CBR and VBR. Numerical results showing limitations of getting reasonable multiplexing gain in an ATM tactical link are included.