UltraNet: an architecture for gigabit networking

UltraNet, a multigigabit/second integrated network, is designed to deliver the highest possible effective performance, which is defined to be the application-to-application transfer rate using a standard programming interface. It uses data links that operate up to 1 Gb/s and very high-speed bridges to connect them into a multigigabit seamless fabric. UltraNet is different from many local area networks in that it provides more than just a data link. It also provides a set of transport layer services, both connection-oriented and connectionless, at a very high transfer rate. An overview of the system architecture is presented and the performance of various UltraNet configurations, the rationale behind its design, and the current implementation are discussed