With the increasing use of distributed embedded real-time systems, the ability of computer networks to handle real-time message traffic becomes more important. This project addresses issues related to guaranteeing message deadlines in ATM-based heterogeneous networks. As more and more mission-critical real-time applications run in a heterogeneous networking environment that consists of a wide variety of equipment and spans both wired and wireless networks, it is necessary to extend real-time communication technology to these networks. Newly developed high-speed ATM networks use connection-oriented traffic management, support various classes of traffic and have hence become a primary backbone networking technology in the new generation of heterogeneous communication environments.

The results of this research will contribute to real-time communication in heterogeneous networks and have an impact on information highway developments in Hong Kong, China and the rest of the world. The implemented system will provide an infrastructure for industry, academic research and university teaching.