Modular ATM switching for the evolution to broadband ISDM

Basic requirements for asynchronous-transfer-mode (ATM) switching network architecture and sizes are assured. An evolutionary switching system approach is outlined to withstand the foreseeable evolution of the telecommunications service scenario from the narrowband ISDN to an integrated broadband communication network. State-of-the-art ATM switching techniques are examined against previous requirements. The need for further research on modularity and expandability is consequently deduced. Finally, an interesting research field is identified, namely, multistage structure with path-finding algorithms.<>