A protocol for satellite access via use of spot-beams

In this paper, we develop a new protocol for multiple access to a GEO-satellite that utilizes an electronically-switched spot-beam. The emphasis is on an integrated voice/data protocol which takes advantage of the propagation latency and which offers centralized control with excellent delay and throughput characteristics. The protocol also allows full exploitation of the advantages of a hopping beam satellite, such as smaller earth stations and frequency re-use.