Satellite Networking: Principles and Protocols, 2nd Edition

Chapter 5B-ISDN ATM over Satellite Networks

This chapter aims to provide an introduction to the concept of broadband satellite networking and the related B-ISDN ATM technology. Although all networks are evolving towards all-IP networking, the new-generation Internet networks have started to adopt the basic principles and techniques developed for ATM networks to support quality of service (QoS), class of service (CoS), fast packet switching, traffic control and traffic management. When you have completed this chapter, you should be able to:

• Know the design issues and concepts concerning broadband satellite networks.
• Know the concept of GEO, MEO and LEO in broadband satellite networks.
• Describe the architecture of broadband network interconnection and terminal access.
• Describe the major roles of satellites in broadband networks.
• Understand the basic concept of satellite transparent and on-board switching payload for satellite networks.
• Understand QoS and performance issues and enhancement techniques for broadband satellite networks.

5.1 Background

In the early 1990s, research and development in broadband communications based on ATM and fibre optic transmission generated a significant demand for cost-effective interconnection of private and public broadband ATM LANs (also called ATM islands) for cost-effective broadband access via satellite to these broadband islands. However, there was a shortage of terrestrial networks to provide broadband connections in wide areas, particularly ...