UCX-a universal communication switch experiment

An experimental system using a universal communication switch, UCX, has been constructed. The UCX is a hybrid switch with hardware-implemented switching functions for both position (circuit) and label (packet) multiplexed data. Thus, it can efficiently switch both circuit and packet traffic. The system interfaces the outside world via devices that can connect circuit as well as packet oriented terminals or networks. The architecture and internal communication structure of the switch are described. The technique of hybrid switching allows a graceful evolution toward integrated services digital networks.<>