Asynchronous transfer mode based service consolidation switch

DETAILED DESCRIPTION From the foregoing, a need has arisen for a telecommunications switch that integrates a variety of services through an asynchronous transfer mode based operation.
In accordance with the present invention, an asynchronous transfer mode based service consolidation switch is provided that substantially eliminates or reduces disadvantages and problems associated with conventional telecommunications switches.
According to an embodiment of the present invention there is provided an asynchronous transfer mode based service consolidation switch that includes a to-switch port processor for converting network traffic into cells having an internal cell based format.
A bandwidth arbiter determines appropriate bandwidth to transfer the cells stored at the to-switch port processor.
A data crossbar transfer the cells from the to-switch port processor according to the determined bandwidth.
A from-switch port processor receives the cells from the data crossbar and converts the cells into a network traffic configuration for transfer over a network link.
A multipoint topology controller controls an amount of cell flow within the data crossbar.
The present invention provides various technical advantages over conventional telecommunication switches.
For example, one advantage is the ability to transfer cells with, guarantees against cell loss.
Another example is to provide switch flow control within a telecommunication switch.
Other examples are readily ascertainable by one skilled in the art from the following figures, descriptions and claims.