Wireless ATM networks: architecture, system design and prototyping

The concept of "wireless ATM", first proposed in 1992, is now being actively considered as a potential framework for next-generation wireless communication networks capable of supporting integrated, quality-of-service (QoS) based multimedia services. We outline the technological rationale for wireless ATM, present a system-level reference architecture, discuss key subsystem design issues, and summarize early prototyping results for a proof-of-concept system called "WATMnet". The reference architecture for wireless ATM consists of two major components: (a) a "radio access layer" for extension of ATM services over a wireless medium and (b) a "mobile ATM" infrastructure network capable of supporting terminal migration. Design considerations for both the radio access layer (e.g. physical layer, medium access control and data link control) and mobile ATM (e.g. handoff control, location management and routing/QoS control) are discussed, and key technical issues are identified in each case. An overview of experiences with the "WATMnet" system prototype developed at NEC USA's C&C Research Laboratories is given in conclusion.