Satellite Networking: Principles and Protocols, 2nd Edition

Chapter 1Introduction

This chapter aims to introduce the basic concepts of satellite networking including applications and services, circuit and packet switching, broadband networks, network protocols and reference models, characteristics of satellite networks, internetworking between satellite and terrestrial networks and convergence of network technologies and protocols. It also highlights the recent development of broadband satellite systems and standards. When you have completed this chapter, you should be able to:

• Understand the concepts of satellite networks and internetworking with terrestrial networks.
• Know the different satellite services, network services and quality of service (QoS).
• Appreciate the differences between satellite networking and terrestrial networking issues.
• Describe the functions of network user terminals and satellite terminals and gateway.
• Know the basic principles of protocols and the ISO reference model.
• Know the basic ATM reference model.
• Know the basic Internet TCP/IP protocol suite.
• Understand the basic concepts of multiplexing and multiple accessing.
• Understand the basic switching concepts including circuit switching, virtual circuit switching and routing.
• Understand the evolution process and convergence of network technologies and protocols.
• Be aware of the recent development of broadband satellite systems and standards.

1.1 Applications and Services of Satellite Networks

Satellites are manmade stars in the sky, and are often mistaken for ...