A network protocol for real time applications

This thesis describes a local area network (LAN) protocol for real-time distributed systems that provides guaranteed bandwidth, maximum latency, and reliable data delivery. The protocol takes advantage of current networking protocols and hardware to provide an inexpensive solution that is suitable for embedded systems. This thesis describes the protocol and its implementation and compares the actual performance of the protocol with theoretical predictions. The results show that this protocol is appropriate for systems using real-time data over LANs, including applications ranging from air traffic control and factory automation to data collection in laboratories and intraship communications. The experiments measure the parameters needed for others to design systems using this protocol. This work provides pertinent information for researchers with interests in real-time networks and for designers of embedded systems that depend on real-time communications. The major contribution of this work is a simple and well-designed network protocol that meets real-time requirements, as well as a functioning implementation on cost-effective hardware that is suitable for embedded systems.