A noble consolidation algorithm for point-to-multipoint ABR service in ATM networks

The main objective of a consolidation algorithm in the point-to-multipoint available bit rate (ABR) service is to avoid 'feedback implosion'. Existing consolidation algorithms suffer from various undesirable effects, such as consolidation noise, slow transient response etc. In this paper, we first identify the fundamental responsibilities of a branch point in a point-to-multipoint ABR connection and then propose a new efficient consolidation algorithm. The motivation behind our proposed algorithm is that a backward resource management (BRM) cell from a downstream node should be passed to the upstream node immediately if it contains 'critical information', otherwise, it should be discarded at the branch point. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm provides faster and more accurate feedback with excellent scalability, in comparison to the existing algorithms.