Bursty Bit Error Correction in ATM Networks Using a Convolutional Code

This paper discusses the possibility of simultaneously correcting bit errors and recovering lost cells in Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) networks by applying a convolutional code to the error correction of a Virtual Path (VP) connection. Conventional error correction schemes for VP links, which have been discussed in a lot of papers over the past five years, are based on linear block coding represented by cyclic codes. The proposed new scheme has advantages of correcting both random and bursty bit errors in ATM cells, especially in ATM information field, with short delay and simple circuitry, so that not only bit errors but also lost cells due to congestion or cell header error can be recovered to provide a reliable network. The performance of the new scheme evaluated with probable numerical values of ATM impairments proves the effect of convolutional coding superior to the conventional schemes.