An endogenous priority model for load control in combined batch—interactive computer systems

Summary A relatively high level analytical model for computer systems serving both batch and interactive users is presented. The model is unusual in its employment of an endogenous priority scheme to represent a class of strategies for controlling service to the two types of customers. Numerical methods developed by V. L. Wallace are used to generate steady state probability distributions for the infinite state Markov chain formed by the model. Data from the Michigan Terminal System, which includes a load controlling mechanism of the type modelled, is used to validate the model. Finally, additional parameter studies indicate that the model reflects the dynamic behavior of such system in a reasonable way.