msSTART: A Random Access Algorithm for the IEEE 802.14 HFC Network

In this article, we present the n-ary Multi-slot Stack Random Access Algorithm (msSTART) for use in an IEEE802.14 hybrid fiber/coaxial (HFC) network. The msSTART random access algorithm (RAA) is an evolution of the stack-based START algorithm. It is an easy to implement, high-efficiency, free-access, robust, stable RAA optimized to operate in an environment where contention slots could dynamically change. Through a series of simulation studies, we demonstrate the performance advantages of msSTART by comparing its throughput/delay characteristics to those of other popular RAAs, including ALOHA and tree-search RAAs. For the latter RAAs, we also provide a unified stack representation of their operation.