As mentioned in the previous chapter, asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) was selected in 1987 by ITU-T as the universal transfer mode for transferring information of the broadband integrated services digital networks (BISDN). It was originally conceived as a high-speed transfer technology for voice, video, and data over public networks. It combines the benefits of circuit switching with those of packet switching and provides a mechanism for integrating LANs and WANs. ATM allows the carriers to provide different classes of service over the network and to connect devices operating at different speeds. The objective of this chapter is to provide a basic understanding of ATM networks and its services. The chapter provides summaries of ATM cells, protocols, services, and standards. It also discusses various applications of ATM, particularly how it applies in local area network (LAN) environments.
Asynchronous Transfer Mode, Page 1 of 2
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