Accelerating data for the warfighter

A methodology for efficiently integrating geosynchronous satellite links into communications networks by employing modern digital technology, in particular the asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), is explained. The concept of seamless interoperability is examined, and a vital C4I US Army network (the Warfighter Information Network) which will employ ATM is described. ATM cell structure is explained, and it is shown that the header error correction byte can be stripped from the cell, and idle ATM cells removed to accelerate the delivery of data. A purpose-designed interface, COMSAT's ATM Link Accelerator is then described which uses the header error correction byte and idle cells, as well as both header and data compression, to efficiently provide adaptive error correction for error-free transmission of ATM over the satellite link while maximizing data throughput. The results of tests conducted using this network interface equipment in two separate CECOM facilities (the DSCS ITF at Ft. Monmouth, New Jersey, and the Trojan ATM Test Laboratory at Ft. Huachuca, Arizona) are presented and discussed.