End-to-End Performance of Heterogeneous Multi-EPON/OBS Networks

In this paper end-to-end performance is evaluated when multiple high-speed access networks, based on the Ethernet Passive Optical Network (EPON) technology, are interconnected through an Optical Burst Switching (OBS) core network. The inter-working unit, or edge node, between these two different networks is properly studied and discussed. A time-based burst assembly algorithm is assumed, which is analyzed and dimensioned to cope with multiple EPONs. The role of a key parameter, such as the EPON cycle time used in the multiple access scheme, is assessed. Transport layer performance of the multi-EPON/OBS network is evaluated through simulations with ns2. Results show that the relationship between the EPON cycle time and the burst assembly time has a fundamental role and requires proper tuning to optimize, e. g., the TCP throughput.