Local area network with star topology and ring protocol

摘要

In a local area network all communication nodes are connected only to a centrally located star network coupler, but data is transmitted from one communication node to the next active communication node in a sequence defined by a ring protocol. The star network coupler may be implemented by switches capable of connecting a receiver for one communication node to a transmitter for the next communication node or to a bypass line for the next communication node. However, preferably the star network coupler comprises a selective multiplexer for each of the nodes. Each selective multiplexer has inputs connected to all of the communication nodes to receive therefrom transmission data and a line status signal indicating communication activity with each node so that inactive nodes can be bypassed.