Common-access channel network algorithm

The paper describes an algorithm developed for controlling access to a multiple-access broadcast channel. The algorithm, which is particularly simple, is suitable for networks with a small number of nodes. The algorithm was initially developed for use in a computer network dedicated to providing status information and control of a number of isolated plant sites. The channel available in this system was a radio-frequency troposcatter link, which supported a low 300 baud asynchronous data rate.