Dynamic Multiplexing of IP-Streams onto Shared Cellular Links

We will discuss the problem of multiplexing variable-rate IP-streams onto shared cellular links, which is usually more difficult than performing resource allocation in fixed networks due to the timevarying and location-dependent nature of the wireless channel. Hence, we will show that simple schemes, if they are not supplied with additional link status information, do not yield acceptable results. Furthermore, we will present a more sophisticated scheduling policy, which is based on the general principle of Class-Based Queuing and has been adapted by us to the specific characteristics of wireless links. Compared to simpler solutions, it supports prioritization of data streams, thus achieving significant performance improvements in terms of guaranteed bandwidth and delay per user/service, as will be shown for a GSM-GPRS system.