Local area network with self assigned address method

Abstract

A local area network is disclosed including apparatus and methods for transferring data between a plurality of data processing resources ('agents') coupled to a cable. In the preferred embodiment, a plurality of agents are coupled to a common cable for data transmission and reception. An agent newly coupled to the cable dynamically assigns itself a unique address on the cable to which other agents may send data. Once an agent has been assigned a final address, it may then transmit to, and receive data from, other agents on the cable. An agent desiring to send data to a receiving agent follows a three step handshake, wherein the sending agent transmits an 'RTS' signal and within a predetermined time must receive a 'CTS' signal from the receiving agent. The sending agent then transmits a data frame within a predetermined time after the CTS signal is received. The failure to detect a return CTS signal within the predetermined time denotes a collision condition. Re-transmission is attempted using a linear back off method which is adjusted based on previous cable traffic history.