LINK Protocol:
Relay Network Engineering Guide
A comprehensive engineering guide combining the Chen-Vasquez Mass Shadow Effect and the Zhou-Okonkwo Quantum Coherence Model for reliable interstellar communication via entangled particle arrays.
01. Overview
The APEX LINK protocol represents a breakthrough in quantum communication technology, enabling near-instantaneous data transmission across interstellar distances. Unlike traditional electromagnetic communication systems which suffer from light-speed propagation delays, LINK utilizes quantum entanglement to achieve zero-latency signal transfer.
LINK signal quality is governed by two foundational models:
Defines body occlusion — celestial bodies completely block signals. Binary check performed first.
Defines distance degradation — signal coherence decays with distance up to 40 Gm hard cutoff.
"For two centuries, we have wrestled with the tyranny of distance. Today, we must acknowledge a simpler tyrant: the rock between us and the person we're trying to reach."
02. Body Occlusion
The Chen-Vasquez Mass Shadow Effect
Before calculating distance-based degradation, LINK systems must first determine if a clear line-of-sight exists between transmitter and receiver. Celestial bodies — planets, moons, and stars — completely block quantum-entangled signals.
The Chen-Vasquez model (ISA-2874-COM-12) establishes that no electromagnetic or quantum-entangled signal can propagate through planetary mass. This creates "Shadow Zones" — regions of space from which communication with a given point is impossible without relay assistance.
Stanton System Shadow Zones
Signal Quality Calculation Order
→ If occluded: Signal blocked, return 0% coherence
→ Apply coherence formula based on distance
03. The Zhou-Okonkwo Formula
Coherence Decay Function
[ FIG 1.1: ZHOU-OKONKWO DECAY ALGORITHM ]
Parameters
The formula describes a smooth degradation curve from perfect coherence (Φ₀) at close range to zero coherence at the hard cutoff distance (λh). The decay exponent (κ) determines the rate of signal degradation within the operational range.
05. Coherence Zones
Operational Classification
Distance vs. Signal Quality Reference
06. Historical Note
The theoretical foundation for LINK relay network engineering rests upon two complementary models developed at the Imperial Sciences Academy:
- Chen-Vasquez (2872-2874): Dr. Elena Chen and Dr. Marcus Vasquez established that celestial bodies create absolute barriers to signal propagation.
- Zhou-Okonkwo (2889-2891): Dr. Wei Zhou and Dr. Amara Okonkwo developed the mathematical framework for distance-based coherence decay.
"We have mapped the boundaries of our voices in the void. Whether the Verse chose these boundaries, or we simply discovered them, I cannot say."
The Chen-Vasquez model resolved the mystery of unexpected communication blackouts during the early colonization era, while the Zhou-Okonkwo model provided the predictive framework for signal quality across clear paths. Together, these models enable engineers to design reliable relay networks.
This engineering guide builds upon over eight decades of operational experience deploying LINK relay networks based on both frameworks. Today, APEX LINK systems operate in over 800 star systems, providing reliable communication infrastructure for everything from military operations to civilian commerce.
07. Signal Simulator
Interactive Coherence Calculator
References
- Chen, E. & Vasquez, M. (2872). "Electromagnetic Propagation Barriers in Planetary Shadow Zones." Proceedings of the Imperial Communications Symposium, 445-478.
- Imperial Sciences Academy (2874). "Standardization of the Chen-Vasquez Occlusion Detection Algorithm." ISA-2874-COM-12.
- Zhou, W. & Okonkwo, A. (2889). "Quantum Coherence Decay in Long-Distance Entangled Systems." Imperial Sciences Academy, ISA-2891-COM-7.
- APEX Engineering Division. (2947). "LINK Relay Network Deployment Guidelines." Internal Document APEX-ENG-2947-LNK-03.
- Tanaka, Y. (2952). "Optimizing Relay Node Placement for Maximum Coherence Retention." Applied Quantum Engineering, 18(4), 312-348.
- Reyes, M. & Tanaka, Y. (2954). "Field Performance Analysis of Multi-Hop LINK Networks." UEE Technical Review, 31(2), 145-178.