An architecture for a pure ATM metropolitan area network

The authors propose a scenario for MAN (metropolitan area network) environments in which the flexibility of a unique `pure ATM´ multiplexing technique for all types of information is exploited. The proposed MAN, which is based on two contra-directional buses, provides for a unique medium access protocol, achieving integration of isochronous and nonisochronous traffic in the network. The authors describe the protocol architecture and the main features of the MAN and outline analogies and differences between the proposed MAN and the IEEE 802.6 one