How are time slots used in Link 16's TDMA?

• A. Nodes randomize transmissions to avoid collision
• B. A node is assigned a designated transmission window within the TDMA frame to send/receive data
• C. Each node uses a fixed channel independent of time
• D. Slots are unused for security reasons

Answer: (B)

Time slots in Link 16's TDMA provide deterministic access to the shared airwave by giving each node a specific transmission window inside a repeating frame. A common network time reference coordinates all participants so every node knows exactly when its window occurs and when others will transmit. Within its assigned slot, a node can send or receive data, while outside that window the node stays quiet. Guard times between slots help prevent any overlap due to timing variations, ensuring transmissions don’t collide. This slot-based coordination makes access predictable, supports orderly use of the channel, and works in concert with Link 16’s frequency-hopping behavior to deliver reliable, time-managed communications.