Issues in Terrestrial/Satellite Network Synchronization

This paper examines the key issues involved in choosing synchronization techniques applicable to both terrestrial and satellite switching networks. The terrestrial networks considered involve circuit switching, message switching, packet switching, and other integrated voice/data nodal configurations. The satellite networks considered involve time-division multiple access (TDMA) systems and their associated synchronization problems. Peculiar problems associated with satelliteswitched TDMA (SS/TDMA) network synchronization are also addressed. Finally, the issues involved in synchronizing integrated satellite/terrestrial networks are addressed. Emphasis will be placed on assessing the state of the art of current terrestial/satellite synchronization technology and projecting future trends.