Probabilistic Modelling

A no-nonsense introduction to the tools and techniques of probabilisitc modelling, with applications in manufacturing, computing and communications. Both performance and reliability evaluation are considered. Self-contained treatment suitable for computing science, engineering and operations research students taking courses in systems design.

Probabilistic modelling is the most cost-effective means of performance and reliability evaluation of complex dynamic systems. This self-contained text will be welcomed by students and teachers for its no-nonsense treatment of the basic results and examples of their application. The only mathematical background that is assumed is basic calculus. The necessary fundamentals of probability theory are included, as well as an introduction to renewal, Poisson and Markov processes. Models arising in the fields of manufacturing, computing and communications, involving single or multiple service stations and one or more customer classes, are examined in some detail. Both exact and approximate solution methods are discussed, including recent techniques such as spectral expansion. Special attention is devoted to models of systems subject to breakdowns and repairs. Throughout the book, strong emphasis is placed on explaining the ideas behind the results and helping the reader to use them, making the book ideal for students in computer science, engineering or operations research taking courses in modern system design.