Dynamic link allocation in integrated satellite/terrestrial communications networks

In the interests of spectrum conservation, integrated networks must endeavour to maximise traffic on wired links and minimise traffic on the radio links, particularly those with large frequency reuse distances or poor efficiency, measured as the ratio of bit rate: bandwidth. Dynamic link allocation is therefore necessary to ensure that the precious bandwidth of the Earth-space channels is neither denied to the users that most need it nor left idle when it could otherwise contribute to an improvement in the overall system performance. This paper looks at typical link configurations and the criteria used for link allocation and reallocation. It then considers channel degradation and, in particular: detection or inference of channel degradation; techniques for maintaining existing link configurations in the presence of noise; and handover. Finally, a formula for calculating blocking probability and forced termination probability on integrated satellite/terrestrial networks is presented