Synchronous and asynchronous transfer modes in the future broadband ISDN

The integration of broadband services into ISDN (integrated services digital network) requires the introduction of novel switching and transmission facilities. Service requirements are then compared with the capabilities of different transfer principles. Synchronous and asynchronous transfer modes are discussed and the related network concepts are described, taking hybrid approaches into account. A broadband network architecture is presented in which hybrid switches play a major role. A number of traffic engineering considerations are given that may have an impact on the discussion regarding transfer principles