Registered: Nov 2002
Location: 967th Layer of the Abyss
Posts: 14

Network Working Group
Request for Comments: 1149
D. Waitzman
BBN STC
1 April 1990

Page 1

A Standard for the Transmission of IP Datagrams on Avian Carriers
Status of this Memo

This memo describes an experimental method for the encapsulation of IP datagrams in avian carriers. This specification is primarily useful in Metropolitan Area Networks. This is an experimental, not recommended standard. Distribution of this memo is unlimited.

Overview and Rational

Avian carriers can provide high delay, low throughput, and low altitude service. The connection topology is limited to a single point-to-point path for each carrier, used with standard carriers, but many carriers can be used without significant interference with each other, outside of early spring. This is because of the 3D ether space available to the carriers, in contrast to the 1D ether used by IEEE802.3. The carriers have an intrinsic collision avoidance system, which increases availability. Unlike some network technologies, such as packet radio, communication is not limited to line-of-sight distance. Connection oriented service is available in some cities, usually based upon a central hub topology.


Frame Format

The IP datagram is printed, on a small scroll of paper, in hexadecimal, with each octet separated by whitestuff and blackstuff. The scroll of paper is wrapped around one leg of the avian carrier. A band of duct tape is used to secure the datagram's edges. The bandwidth is limited to the leg length. The MTU is variable, and paradoxically, generally increases with increased carrier age. A typical MTU is 256 milligrams. Some datagram padding may be needed.
Upon receipt, the duct tape is removed and the paper copy of the datagram is optically scanned into a electronically transmittable form.


Discussion

Multiple types of service can be provided with a prioritized pecking order. An additional property is built-in worm detection and eradication. Because IP only guarantees best effort delivery, loss of a carrier can be tolerated. With time, the carriers are self-




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Page 2



regenerating. While broadcasting is not specified, storms can cause
data loss. There is persistent delivery retry, until the carrier
drops. Audit trails are automatically generated, and can often be
found on logs and cable trays.


Security Considerations

Security is not generally a problem in normal operation, but special measures must be taken (such as data encryption) when avian carriers are used in a tactical environment.


Author's Address

David Waitzman
BBN Systems and Technologies Corporation
BBN Labs Division
10 Moulton Street
Cambridge, MA 02238

Phone: (617) 873-4323

EMail: dwaitzman@BBN.COM

Report this post to a moderator | IP: Logged

Registered: Jan 2001
Location: WDM, IA
Posts: 2963

Is there a point here?

Registered: Jul 2000
Location: Beatrice, Nebraska
Posts: 18808

Someone thought birds carrying "packets" was a funny idea?

__________________

[Ignore Sig]

The pinnacle of Failbot technology.

Report this post to a moderator | IP: Logged

Registered: Jan 2001
Location: WDM, IA
Posts: 2963

You lost me, is an "Avian" some type of bird or something?

Registered: Jul 2000
Location: Beatrice, Nebraska
Posts: 18808

"Avian" is a fancy word for "bird."

__________________

[Ignore Sig]

The pinnacle of Failbot technology.

Report this post to a moderator | IP: Logged

Registered: Oct 2000
Location:
Posts: 9331

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Wraith
You lost me, is an "Avian" some type of bird or something?

---

Report this post to a moderator | IP: Logged