An Ehternet Compatible Protocol for Real-Time Voice/Data Integration

Abstract This paper addresses the issues involved in providing an integrated real time voice and data service on the Ethernet local network. The paper proposes a protocol that is functional, robust and compatible with current Ethernet specifications. The proposed voice protocol meets the real time voice performance requirements for local and potentially remote distribution of voice. As demonstrated by detailed simulation, the addition of voice traffic to an existing Ethernet via the proposed protocol improves the total channel utilization and leaves more data-usable bandwidth when compared to the same load of voice being added via CSMA-CD. Controllers implementing this protocol can co-exist on an Ethernet with stations using conventional controllers. Additionally, the introduction of the voice controllers requires no changes to the data link procedures used by the already existing data stations in the network. The protocol can be considered for other real time applications, such as process control, as well.