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Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM)

ATM is involved both directly and indirectly in solutions provided by Matrix Communications. ATM is a high bandwidth network which supports multiple traffic types. It can be used directly in the development of a customer wide area network, often referred to as a 'cell' network. A network can be ATM in its entirety or integrated by Matrix Communications's specialists as an element in a more complex solution.

Its suitability to high speeds and bandwidth means it is also the ideal technology for use in carrier core networks for example asynchronous digital subscriber line (ADSL). ATM provides the underlying carrier network for ADSL traffic . Therefore a network solution provided by Matrix Communications utilising ADSL, Ethernet and other network technologies may be built on a carrier's ATM core.

Brief Technical Overview of ATM

ATM is a cell switching and multiplexing technology. It is connection-oriented. This means a fixed channel termed a permanent virtual circuit (PVC) is established between two points whenever data transfer begins. The cell used for ATM is relatively small fixed length compared to variable units used with other network technologies. No processing such as error control is performed with the payload data inside the ATM cells by the switches. They read and update the cell-header information and switch the cell quickly to its destination. The assured time across a PVC, small cell size and low overhead in cell switching combine to create a stable, high capacity network.

ATM was the first network designed with convergence in mind. The small, constant cell size and transmission time allows ATM to transmit voice, video and traditional data with Class of Service. Therefore ATM is a technology that provides partners with a cost effective manner in which to support high bandwidths and converged services.