Performance evaluation of packet data services over cellular voice networks

In this paper we develop a Markov chain modeling framework for throughput/delay analysis of data services over cellular voice networks, using the dynamic channel stealing method. Effective approximation techniques are also proposed and verified for simplification of modeling analysis. Our study identifies the average voice call holding time as the dominant factor to affect data delay performance. Especially in heavy load conditions, namely when the number of free voice channels becomes momentarily less, the data users will experience large network access delay in the range of several minutes or longer on average. The study also reveals that the data delay performance deteriorates as the number of voice channels increases at a fixed voice call blocking probability, due to increased voice trunking efficiency. We also examine the data performance improvement by using the priority data access scheme and speech silence detection technique.