Modeling and simulation of a Fiber Distributed Data Inferface Local Area Network (FDDILAN) using OPNET for interfacing through the Common Data Link (CDL)

Abstract

The Optimized Network Engineering Tool (OPNET) is a commercially available communications network simulation package. This thesis involves the modification of OPNET's Fiber Distributed Data Interface Local Area Network (FDDI LAN) model in order to enhance its usefulness as an aid in the development of recommendations for the characteristics and metrics to be eventually included in the Defense Service Project Office's (DSPO) Common Data Link (CDL) project. This work includes a step-by-step guide for FDDI simulation in OPNET, and a discussion of the changes made to the original model to enhance its performance and data display characteristics. Simple tests are provided to verify the completed model's performance and usefulness as a working tool for further development