POINT-TO-MULTIPOINT CONNECTIONS

摘要

This invention relates to distributive services in telecommunications networks, and in particular to methods for establishing point-to-multipoint connections and multipoint-to-point connections as well as to methods of releasing these types of connections. Program distribution to several subscribers (S3, S4) uses network resources in common along common call routes. A list (58) of potential program distribution points (D5, D6, D7) is created and a running index is associated with each one of the distribution points. Before a connection is set up to a subscriber (for example S4) the list is examined and a distribution point (D6) is selected from which a point-to-point connection (62) is set up to the subscriber. The running index is stepped up. The running index of a distribution point is stepped down during release of a connection (62) and is examined in connection with release of a call route section (61).