ATMR: ring architecture for broadband networks

A shared-medium networking approach based on an asynchronous transfer mode ring (ATMR) scheme is proposed for constructing broadband networks such as high-speed local area networks, metropolitan area networks, and access networks for broadband integrated services digital networks (B-ISDNs). The ATMR, providing distributed ATM (asynchronous transfer mode) switching capability throughout a ring network topology, consists primarily of counter-rotating dual slotted rings. The functional requirements for broadband access networks are discussed, followed by a description of ATMR technical features, including protocols, networking, and access node system architecture. Laboratory prototypes of the ATMR hardware architecture have been designed to confirm the feasibility of its protocol and system architectural concepts. A prototype ATMR protocol function, having a 156-Mb/s cell stream and a minimum cell header processing delay, was fabricated on a ring access control LSI chip using BiCMOS LSI technology