ISDN challenges to satellite communications

The compatibility of satellite networks with the current and evolving ISDN (integrated services digital network) standards is discussed in detail. The specific issues addressed are frame-relay and frame switching protocols, congestion control mechanism for frame relaying service, asynchronous transfer mode protocol for broadband ISDN, D-channel protocol (I.441, I.451), signaling system No.7, activation/deactivation procedure (I.430), performance parameters and quality of service. As prototype examples of ISDN satellite networks, four canonical architectures are developed. They are based on INTELSAT IBS/IDR service networks, multicarrier demand assigned TDMA (time-division multiaccess) networks, VSAT networks, and Advanced Communication Technology Satellite (ACTS) network. It is concluded that for satellite networks to compete well against the fiber-optic network, a concerted effort is needed to develop and implement satellite network architectures that are fully integrated with the ISDN networks