Transmission format and receiver logic for random access strategies in a fiber-optic network

In a random access, packet transmission system, the transmission from a source may overlap with, preempt, or be preempted by, transmission from other sources. A receiver must be able to accept the data contents of only all those packets that are uncorrupted. A solution to the bit-synchronous, digital logic aspects of this problem is presented that is based on a simple choice for transmission format and receiver logic. This format is being implemented for use in an experimental, high speed, fiber-optic, unidirectional bus network that is expected to support a variety of random-access strategies.<<ETX>>