A multi-network research testbed for multimedia communications services

Bellcore is assembling an experimental research prototype for investigation of the end-to-end integration of broadband networks, multimedia terminals, and potential services and applications. The testbed includes an ATM (asynchronous transfer mode)-based exchange network prototype, adaptors to metropolitan and local area networks and terminals, a broadband ISDN (integrated services digital network) network termination for a multiterminal environment, and experimental terminals. The capabilities of the prototype will be stressed by services including multimedia, multipoint connections, connectionless data service, multimedia teleconferencing, adaptable-rate video, and video on demand. The testbed is intended to affect services definition, signaling standards, and network software, and to offer insights and technology to broadband field trials