Evolution of switch architecture and technology

The authors examine the evolution of switching systems from the very rigid structure of a step-by-step system to the open-ended capabilities of a switch of the 1990s. They discuss the separation of call control from connection control, fast switching technologies, and network integration. They show that a multiconnection switch fabric architecture with integrated call control gives the most flexibility by allowing support of traditional services on traditional fabrics while retaining the flexibility of fast switching for new and as yet undefined services