Prioritized virtual connection transmissions in a packet to ATM cell cable network
US6028860A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 23, 1996 |
| Grant date | Feb 22, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 23, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L2012/5638
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Bi-directional communications system in a CATV network utilizing cell-based Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) transmissions. Packet data existing in any one of several different formats are first converted into ATM cells by a headend controller. Individual cells are then assigned a virtual connection by the headend controller. Based on the virtual connection, the cells can be prioritized and routed to their intended destinations. The cells are transmitted in a shared radio frequency spectrum over a standard cable TV network. A subscriber terminal unit demodulates the received RF signal and processes the cells for use in a computer. Likewise, computers may transmit packet data to their respective subscriber terminal units which are sent to the headend controller over the same CATV network. Hence, the present invention offers a flexible, effective, economic, and fully integrated multimedia bearer system granting immediate support for Internet services, traditional voice telephony, and digital video services over a CATV network.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.