Fast simulation of a voice-data multiplexer

Abstract

This paper considers the problem of estimating, via simulation, extremely low packet loss rates in a voice-data multiplexer. The multiplexer gives priority to voice packets unless the data queue length exceeds a threshold. To efficiently simulate such low loss rates requires the proper use of importance sampling. The authors describe an importance-sampling technique that is guaranteed to provide an exponential decrease in variance over standard simulation. This importance-sampling technique has two phases, with a different importance-sampling strategy in each phase. Experimental results are presented that demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach.