METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONFIGURING AND MAINTAINING TOKEN RING NETWORK

摘要

An enhanced MAU (EMAU) (110) is provided which can be used in token ring networks in place of existing MAUs (10) yet permits each station on the network to be selectively connected to any one of a plurality of different token ring trunk cables. Each EMAU also includes an internal processor (300) and internal coupling units (ICUs) which connect the processor to each of the trunk cables. Each ICU provides the processor a dedicated presence on each of the trunk cables in the same manner as a conventional station. In addition, the processor includes all of the hardware and software necessary to control the ICUs and to communicate over each cable in the same manner as a station. Accordingly, the processor may take full advantage of all fault protection, control and management procedures built into the token ring operating protocol.