Principles and standards for broadband ISDN

Broadband ISDN was developed with the goal of providing a multiplicity of services over a standardized interface. The fast-packet technology of asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) makes it possible to transport information with widely differing characteristics, from bursty data services to high-definition television signals, over a range of speeds. With ATM technology, it is possible to build new high-speed networking equipment for the customer. These new products, plus a defined interface to Synchronous Optical Network (SONET) standards, and powerful signaling and control capabilities for multimedia services, are making broadband ISDN the basis for the next generation of network infrastructures. To provide global broadband products and services, international broadband standards are critical. This paper reviews the work of domestic and international standards bodies on a number of important standards for ATM transport, broadband signaling, and other aspects of broadband ISDN, and discusses how industry forums are working to ensure the compatibility of products and services of multiple vendors.