ATM NETWORKS - THE MANUFACTURERS VIEWPOINT

The article is in two parts. The first begins with a brief review of t he history and goes on to explain some of the concepts of the ATM tech nique and ATM networks operating in cross-connect and/or switched mode . Two types of ATM service are described: data services and video on d emand services. The second part describes two types of ATM switching s ystem developed by Alcatel to meet market requirements - the Alcatel 1 000 AX and the Alcatel 1100 HSS. The first is designed for public infr astructure networks and incorporates a connectionless CBDS/SMDS servic e. The second is a multiprotocol switch designed for private networks that can be used in public networks initially as an access node.