Ethernet: distributed packet switching for local computer networks
Communications of the ACM
Bus, ring, star and tree local area networks
ACM SIGCOMM Computer Communication Review
| Hi-index | 0.00 |
This paper proposes a topology for local computer networks. Called "Dragnet", it is similar to the Ethernet network in function, but rather different in the following respects:1. Instead of a single long bidirectional cable, there are multiple short unidirectional cables.2. Just as an Ethernet network may require some number of signal repeaters to join multiple segments, the proposed system always uses one or more simple concentrator units, each one merging several signals into one.3. Each concentrator unit also provides the facility to silence the lines coming into it, thus providing security against any number of bad (jammed) transmitters. (It is this capability that inspired the name "Dragnet.") Most of the remaining good transmitters in the system can continue to send, and all units can receive regardless of the number of errant transmitters.The paper discusses the strengths and weaknesses of the Dragnet approach. The key disadvantage is that the active medium is potentially less reliable than the simplest Ethernet network (one with no repeaters). The key advantages are: simpler, potentially more reliable drivers and receivers; better fault tolerance; and better message verification. In principle, the systems are compatible, and the two might be combined into a hybrid network.