Asynchronous transfer mode switching system

摘要

An asynchronous transfer mode switching system for improving switching throughput and averting complicated and difficult timing design. In operation, synchronous cell strings from external transmission lines are converted to asynchronous cell strings which are switched by a space-division switch array. The switched asynchronous cell strings are reconverted to synchronous cell strings for output onto external transmission lines. The space-division switch array comprises a plurality of unit switches in stages, each unit switch having input terminals and output terminals. The unit switches each include a timing control circuit that causes a switching operation to start upon detecting two states concurrently: a stored state of a cell to be switched, and a storage-ready state of a destination for the switched cell. The scheme allows the system to operate in an asynchronous manner.