A simulation based comparison of token passing schemes and the random access technique for voice/data integration on LANS

The performance of medium access protocols for local area networks (LANs) in a voice and data integrated environment are investigated. Four strategies for implementing the token passing ring network (IEEE 802.5 standard protocol with and without priority given to voice, a framed token ring protocol, and a timed token ring protocol) and the random access carrier-sense multiple access with collision detection (CSMA/CD) type technique are considered. Their relative performance in terms of data message delay, voice packet waiting time and fraction of late and discarded voice packets are evaluated through simulation. It is concluded that the timed token ring protocol offers a good tradeoff in voice and data performance, particularly at high loads, and its distributed control improves the reliability of the system