Modeling and Analysis of High Speed Parallel Token Ring Networks

Four factors in parallel token ring systems which can improve network performance are identified. An analytical model is developed to predict the performance of these systems. The predictions obtained with the analytical model are compared with simulation results. While the current model accurately predicts the performance of networks with 16 or more rings, it is not so accurate at lower numbers of rings. The short/long cycle behavior of the token interarrival times is identified as one cause of the inaccuracies. The benefits and limitations of parallel token ring networks for gigabit speeds are discussed.< >