A guide to data communications: B-ISDN and how it works

The capabilities of the emerging broadband integrated services digital network (B-ISDN) are examined. Fundamental differences between broadband and narrowband ISDN are identified. The basics of asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), the switching technique used by BISDN networks, are discussed. Channel identification, generic flow control, using ATM, and connectionless service are considered. The first services expected to make use of ATM are briefly described.<>