The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #59418   Message #1606779
Posted By: Rapparee
16-Nov-05 - 06:17 PM
Thread Name: BS: The Mother of all BS threads
Subject: RE: BS: The Mother of all BS threads
Please do not forget the information carried in RFC 1149, 1 Apr 1990:

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-
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.