Distribution stage for enabling efficient expansion of a switching network
US7672301B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 2, 2003 |
| Grant date | Mar 2, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 5, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04Q3/68
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A distribution stage is disclosed comprising a plurality of inputs coupled to a plurality of first stage switching devices, a plurality of outputs coupled to a plurality of second stage switching devices, and a distribution configuration. The distribution configuration is configured to receive a plurality of bandwidth units (BU's) from each first stage switching device, and to distribute at least one BU from each first stage switching device to each second stage switching device, such that each second stage switching device is assured of receiving at least one BU from each first stage switching device. In effect, the distribution stage ensures that each first stage switching device has a logical link to each second stage switching device. In one embodiment, the distribution stage is configured in accordance with a distribution configuration that is static. Because the distribution configuration of the distribution stage is static, it does not add complexity to the overall switching determination of a switching network. Thus, the distribution stage enables the switching network to be expanded without degrading the switching performance of the network.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.