Patent ID: 6377546
Filing Date: 2002-04-23
Classification: H04L,H04Q

Abstract:
A method for providing an explicit rate guarantee Rn for each of a plurality of packet streams n, where each stream n is indexed in the range 1 to N and is multiplexed for transmission on a common output link j in a packet switched network, said link including a buffer having a total buffer space in bytes for storing said packets, the method comprising the steps of:a) for each currently received packet, identifying the packet stream, n, associated with said currently received packet; b) adding said currently received packet to an occupied portion of said total buffer space to yield a first sum; c) determining whether said first sum exceeds a first buffer threshold and setting a first variable in response hereto; d) adding said currently received packet to an occupied porton of said buffer space allocated to said stream n to yield a second sum; e) determining whether said second sum exceeds a second, stream threshold and setting a second variable in response thereto; and f) accepting or rejecting said packet based upon said first and second variables, whereby said rate guarantee Rn for said stream n is assured.