Current architectures for ATM implementation

Abstract

This paper is devoted to the classification and preliminary assessment of the ATM switching architectures which are likely to hit the market in the next few years as the B‐ISDN implementation phase will proceed. In the first part of the paper a top down approach is attempted in the classification of switching architectures, with the aim of giving an abstract view of the possible options and setting a common, clearly understandable framework for their comparison. This classification is used as a guideline for a review of the current trends in ATM switching. Both current prototypes by major manufacturers and other proposals which can become products and be part of public or private networks in the future are reviewed. The merits and shortcomings of these solutions are discussed, but no direct comparison is attempted, due to the different purpose and technological effort involved in the various projects which does not provide a fair basis for comparative evaluation.