An BTM traffic shaper is presented which regulates the traffic injected int
o the ATM networks by enforcing specific traffic parameter values that have
been agreed upon between the user and the network. It realises preventive
flow control functions through a new effective rate control algorithm, adap
tive to traffic characteristics. It has been designed to support data commu
nication services. The proposed scheme is presented in detail, and its syst
em functionality and implementation aspects are discussed. Possible applica
tions and model extensions are also discussed.