Flexible asynchronous transfer mode networks utilizing virtual paths

The effect of virtual paths in ATM (asynchronous transfer mode) networks is investigated. The virtual path concept has been proposed as the key technique in enhancing network performance. The impact of the virtual path scheme on transport network architecture and systems is demonstrated in comparison to the digital path scheme in STM-based networks. One of the outstanding virtual path benefits, increased network flexibility, is highlighted. It is shown that dynamic network reconfiguration capability is effectively provided with the virtual path scheme. Some analytical results on the adaptive virtual path bandwidth control effects for multimedia traffic are provided