TDM-like protocol for Gbit/s metropolitan area networks

A TDM-like access protocol is proposed for large Gbit/s MANs which use unidirectional buses for data transfer. The protocol has the advantage that it operates in cycles (thus ensuring fair access by all stations) with no intercycle gap. In conventional cyclic protocols such as Fasnet, the intercycle gap is large for Gbit/s MANs, and limits channel use considerably. Some simulation results are presented to demonstrate the superior performance of the protocol.