| 摘要 |
A plurality of ATM networks may be interconnected to allow communication of voice-band signals between them by using one or more PSTNs and a novel interface that converts ATM formatted data packets to a format usable by digital multiplicationequipment (DCME). Such an interface thus allows the DCME to advantageously function as a gateway between the ATM network and PSTN by providing for optimum bandwidthusage between the networks. In an illustrative example of the invention, a DCME available from AT/AT as the Integrated Access and Cross Connect System ("IACS"), is provided with an ATM-to-DCME interface that converts ATM formatted packets to a regular channelized bitstream usable as an input by the IACS. The interface and the IACS are positioned on both ends of a PSTN to allow for connectivity between the PSTN and a plurality of ATM networks, as well as the required optimization of bandwidth usage. In another illustrative example of the invention, the functionality of the interface is built in to the IACS to convert ATM formatted packets directly into efficient wideband formatted packets for transmission over the PSTN.
|
