VoIP performance in multi-layered satellite IP networks with on-board processing capability

In this study, voice over IP (VoIP) performance in multi-layered satellite IP networks with on-board processing (OBP) capability is investigated. With on-board processing, a satellite can process the received data, and according to the nature of application, it can decide on the transmission properties. Specifically, considered OBP includes error-correcting coding to combat adverse channel conditions and priority queueing mechanisms for efficient use of the system resources. After a brief overview of relevant aspects of satellite networks to VoIP, the VoIP performance for non-geostationary Earth orbit (NGEO) single layer and multi-layered constellations are examined using a network simulation tool. The outcome of these simulations justifies the premise for the multi-layered architecture for delay-sensitive and real-time traffic such as voice. Subsequently, the effects of some quality-of-service (QoS) mechanisms in multi-layered architecture are tested using various simulation parameters. The system simulation verifies that multi-layered satellite networks with OBP capabilities and QoS mechanisms are essential for feasibility of packet-based high quality voice services which are vital components of next-generation communications networks