Application of generalized parallel delta networks to a hybrid broadband switch

The authors describe a broadband switch architecture that 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 network (GPDN) and operates according to the cut-through technique. The rearrangeability and the self-routing properties of GPDNs ensure that CEM information units cross the interconnection network without conflicts, with a constant delay time, and with a fully distributed transfer control. A general description of the switch operation and the results of a preliminary performance evaluation are provided