Computer Networks · TEE · practice

Collision detection · minimum size 1

CSMA, collision detection and avoidance · optional practice

Optional extension · no matching calculation in the two supplied papers

Optional worked extension. This calculation format was not found in the supplied December 2025 final or February 2026 re-exam. The numbers and practice marks are authored. Study the core concept and actual-paper questions first; this is extra explanation, not a TEE prediction.

Practice question. For an ideal CSMA/CD link, the data rate is 10 Mbps and the maximum one-way propagation delay is 25.6 μs. Find the minimum theoretical frame length in bits and whole bytes. Ignore additional device delays. [3 practice marks]

Answer

Given

R=10 Mbps; Tp=25.6 μs.

To find

Lmin in bits and the minimum whole-byte length.

Formula and why

L_{\min}=\lceil 2RT_p\rceil

The frame must last at least a round trip. Convert Mbps to bits/s and μs to seconds before multiplying.

Step-by-step solution

Step 1. Convert the quantities

R=10,000,000 bits/s; Tp=0.0000256 s.

Step 2. Find round-trip delay

2Tp=2×25.6=51.2 μs.

Step 3. Multiply rate by duration

Lmin=2×10,000,000×0.0000256=512 bits.

Step 4. Convert bits to whole bytes

512/8=64; round upward if needed → 64 bytes.

Final answer: 512 bits, or at least 64 whole bytes.