A token-passing data associated protocol for local computer networks

An access protocol for local-area computer networks based on the token-passing bus protocol (IEEE 802.4) is presented. The scheme provides a simple and robust operational procedure in addition to throughput-delay improvement. The protocol combines the data with the token to achieve improved efficiency. Operational robustness is provided via a set of well-defined rules for network formation, repair, and reconfiguration. In addition, the frequency of polling a node is configurable. >