The concept of virtual paths and virtual channels in ATM-networks

Problems which relate to the realization of an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) network are described with particular emphasis on the subscriber access to the network, ATM connections, and switching of the ATM cells. A connection can be established either on the basis of a virtual channel or of a virtual path. To do the routing, translation of the virtual channel identifier (VCI) and the virtual path identifier (VPI) is necessary. The dimensioning of the translation memory and its addressing are considered. Two routing principles within a switching network are presented. An example of an ATM switching element is also given; this element uses a centralized memory for buffering the ATM cells, and it is the nucleus for building large switching networks