USING TECHNOLOGY TO BRING ATM TO THE DESK-TOP

One of the newest technologies to impact both network transmission sys tems and local area networks is asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), due, in part, to the fact that it is a key technology in offering multimed ia services. One issue is how to make the transition from the current embedded network switching systems to ATM-based systems, while minimiz ing the cost of developing a new infrastructure. This paper discusses how ATM capabilities can be extended to the desktop by applying the la test modem technology to send medium-to-high bit rates (51.84 Mb/s) on twisted-pair copper wiring over distances of up to 100 meters.