Application of Generalized Parallel Delta Networks to a Hybrid Broadband Switch

This paper deals with a new broadband switch architecture which is able to offer both the Asynchronous and the Circuit Emulation Transfer Modes (ATM and CEM) for nonisochronous and isochronous services, respectively. The switch is based on the Generalized Parallel Delta Networks (GPDNs) and operates according to the cut-through technique. The rearrangeabilityand the self-routing properties of GPDNs assure that CEM information units cross the interconnection network without conflicts, with a constant delay time and with a fully distributed transfer control. The paper provides a general description of the switch operation and the results of a preliminary performance evaluation.