RAIN (Redundant Array of Inexpensive Networks): Expanding Existing Networks to Support Multitraffic Performance
Edwin C. Foudriat, Kurt J. Maly, Ravi Mukkamala, C. Michael Overstreet, Lijosh Mathews, Satish Balay · 1994
RAIN is based on the concept that access fairness enabled over parallel physical channels is more effectively accomplished than over a single channel with equivalent capacity. The paper demonstrates that by selection of access methods, message submittal and channel use policies, parallel token ring and contention but (Ethernet) systems can provide both increased capacity and effective multitraffic performance. Further, this support is shown for over a wide range of network conditions such as bit rate, node count, node separation, etc. Cost for RAIN implementation is estivated to be ~20%-40% more than for its single link counterpart; for this one obtains a 3-5 fold capacity improvement and much improved multitraffic capability. By parallel combinations of identical and/or dissimilar channels, the combination of policies available is virtually infinite. With this comes the capability to tailor RAIN systems to particular user''s needs and evolution.