This paper proposes a novel method for transporting various types of user traffic effectively over the next generation network called integrated services digital network 3 (ISDN3) (or quantum network) using quantum packets. Basically, a quantum packet comprises one or more 53-byte quanta as generated by a "quantumization" process. While connection-oriented traffic is supported by fixed-size quantum packets each with one quantum to emulate circuit switching, connectionless traffic (e.g., IP packets and active packets) is carried by variable-size quantum packets with multiple quanta to support store-and-forward switching/routing. Our aim is to provide frame-like or datagram-like services while enabling cellbased multiplexing. The quantum packet method also establishes a flexible and extensible framework that caters for future packetization needs while maintaining backward compatibility with ATM. In this paper, we discuss the design of the quantum packet method, including its format, the "quantumization" process, and support for different types of user traffic. We also present an analytical model to evaluate the consumption of network resources (or network costs) when quantum packets are employed to transfer losssensitive data using three different approaches: cut-through, storeand-forward and ideal. Close form mathematical expressions are obtained for some situations. In particular, in terms of network cost, we discover two interesting equivalence phenomena for the cut-through and store-and-forward approaches under certain conditions and assumptions. Furthermore, analytical and simulation results are presented to study the system behavior. Our analysis provides valuable insights into the design of the ISDN3/quantum network.Index Terms: ATM, ATM adaptation layer (AAL), integrated services digital network (ISDN), ISDN3, next-generation networks, quantumization, quantum packets.

Abslrocf-In recent years, a new routing method, known PS active routing, has been emerging. This involves using active packets to configure customized network paths. Based on a Markov decision model, this paper presents an active routing service for active networks in general and the next generation network, enlied ISDN3, in particular. Our aim is l o determine the active routing policy so as to minimize the network cost. Theoretical analysis is presented to show the advantages of our proposal as compared with three other approaches.

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This paper presents an acfive foiwarding scheme for an advancednetwork referred lo as ISDN3. The routing policj~ is detennined based on a Markov decision (inJ?nite horizon) model. Analytical resiilfs am presented ei&ating fhe active forwarding scheme. The analysis provides vahiable insights into the design of ISDN3.

Two generations of Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), namely ISDNI and ISDN2, have been developed in the last century.In our view, the convergence of ATM, Internet and active networks will form the basis for the next generation networks called ISDN3. In this paper, we first review ISDNl and ISDN2 as well as the Internet and active networks. We then discuss some fundamental questions related to the design of ISDN3. Finally, we compare ISDN3 with ISDNl and ISDN2, and outline what ISDN3 might look like. 0-7803-7080-510 1/$10.00 0200 1 IEEE