Duration-limited statistical multiplexing of delay-sensitive traffic in packet networks

A novel strategy for the transmission and multiplexing of delay-sensitive traffic, e.g., voice and video, in packet networks is described. The strategy provides bounded end-to-end delay to all delay-sensitive traffic guarantees loss-free transmission to any traffic with such a requirement. To achieve statistical multiplexing gain, loss performance is provided to the rest of delay-sensitive traffic on an as-needed basis, with possible distinction among different classes. Bounded end-to-end delay is obtained by performing statistical multiplexing at the switching nodes on a duration-limited basis. Loss-free transmission is achieved by means of an underlying service discipline called stop-and-go queuing. The performance of the strategy for some special cases is analyzed, and analytical expressions for the loss probability are derived.>