The Examination of Error Distributions for the Evaluation of Error-Detection and Error-Correction Procedures

The factors influencing the speed at which data can be transmitted, and those determining the error rate, are summarized as an introduction to a statement in respect to error rates measured. Different applications for data transmission are considered in relation to the amount of error correction which may be justified. Various forms of error detection and correction are illustrated, and the probability of undetected errors is considered from a theoretical point of view for a random distribution of errors. These results are then compared with records obtained by practical tests using various redundancy arrangements. It is concluded that there is a substantial advantage in the use of large (500-bit) rather than small (50-bit) blocks for detecting errors. It is also suggested that the practical evidence of error patterns which remain undetected should enable more effective detection designs to be produced.