Aggregate finite-source modelling for multimedia communication systems

In this paper, we address multi-server queueing systems where there are finite sources of different service-times and idle-time profiles. Unlike the classical approach, we try to avoid the multidimensional Markov chains by means of a "representative aggregate source model" which represents all the different services by one prototype source model, Then, the problem is confined to a well-known M/G/N//FCFS (first come first serve) queueing system which has been thoroughly analysed in the literature. This model can be applied to analyse any finite-population priority-based queue so long as the "conservation laws" hold for that system. Finally, the proposed model applied to a typical congestion control problem. The close agreement with simulation results proves the accuracy of the proposed analytical model.