Title :
Metropolitan-area networks
Author :
Morreale, Patricia A. ; Campbell, Graham M.
Author_Institution :
Illinois Inst. of Technol., Chicago, IL, USA
fDate :
5/1/1990 12:00:00 AM
Abstract :
Metropolitan-area networks (MAN), which fill the gap between local area networks (LANs) and wide-area networks (WANs), are discussed. MANs were originally oriented toward data, but now often carry voice and video traffic as well. Supplying more bandwidth than LANs, they support two-way communication over a shared medium such as an optical-fiber cable, and may offer point-to-point high-speed circuits or packet-switched communication. The two most favored topologies, double-star and double-ring, are described and emerging MAN protocols are examined.<>
Keywords :
computer networks; protocols; MAN; bandwidth; double-ring topology; double-star topology; metropolitan-area networks; optical-fiber cable; packet-switched communication; point-to-point high-speed circuits; protocols; two-way communication; Bandwidth; Cable TV; Circuits; Cities and towns; Coaxial cables; Communication switching; Optical fiber cables; Telecommunication traffic; Telephony; Traffic control;
Journal_Title :
Spectrum, IEEE
