Token passing network utilizing active node table
US4747100A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 11, 1986 |
| Grant date | May 24, 1988 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 11, 2006 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L12/417
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A programmable controller is adapted to communicate in a token passing logical ring network in a peer-to-peer fashion. The programmable controller is a station on the network and contains an interface which implements the network protocol. The protocol requires that each station maintain an Active Node Table which stores a complete map of the logical ring and the order in which the token is passed. The Active Node Table is automatically updated by monitoring each token pass on the network, where each token pass identifies the source and destination of the token pass. The Active Node Table is used in performing all routine network maintenance functions, including passing the token, adding stations, and dropping stations. The Active Node Table allows the formation of an Active Node Status Word for use by high level processes within the station. The Active Node Table also facilitates the inclusion of data in the token pass message.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.