SOME REMARKS ON DIGITAL DISTRIBUTED COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS,
Abstract
The rapid evolution in the design of communication networks makes it possible to create new communications networks more reliable than the reliability of the links themselves. This becomes possible because of the advent of new digital computer technology which allows us to physically implement switching doctrines which at an earlier date could only be of academic concern. While such switching schemes are of most interest to the military, they offer a promise for other such applications, such as data communications. Further, with the decreasing cost of digital switching and transmission, such schemes may one day even be chosen on economic grounds alone. However, the state-of-the-art of communication technology is changing so rapidly that it is foolhardy to predict the far future. But, it seems safe to say that digital communications switching and transmission has progressed so rapidly that the spectrum of possible new switching systems is still relatively unexplored. Any discussion based on a new technology inevitably raises the hoary argument of 'complexity.' These new switching techniques are, admittedly, more complex. But, the equipment required is smaller, more reliable, and requires less maintenance--although requiring more components. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0654574
Entities
People
- Paul Baran
Organizations
- RAND Corporation