B-ISDN architecture and protocol

The authors discuss the architecture and protocol for broadband ISDN (B-ISDN) based on the CCITT standards. The discussion attempts to address the general concept of B-ISDN architecture and protocol and, whenever possible, present alternatives and the rationale for decisions in the selection of the protocol. B-ISDN is presented as a network evolution, and the impact of the asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) on the network is described. The role of virtual channel and virtual path in B-ISDN is discussed. The B-ISDN protocol structure and lower layer functions comprising the physical, ATM, and adaptation layers are presented, and the tentative trends of signaling and traffic control for the B-ISDN are delineated