Multiple access wireless network with low latency subnet

Abstract

A method is disclosed for minimizing latency for high priority messages without sacrificing subnet bandwidth in a wireless, multiple access network such as Link. Nodes are able to simultaneously receive messages on at least two subnets, one of which is designated as a low latency ('LL') subnet that transmits messages immediately on a contention access basis. A message acknowledgement protocol can be implemented and high priority messages that fail due to collisions or other reasons can be retransmitted. Jitter can be used to detect collisions. Embodiments include a plurality of 'standard' and/or LL subnets designated for messages of varied urgency. High priority messages can reserve an acknowledgement timeslot for use only by the message recipient. Linkembodiments implement CMN-4, whereby the LL subnet is one of four subnets monitored by each node. Linklatencies in the LL network can be limited to less than 40 msec.