Patent ID: 6229805
Filing Date: 2001-05-08
Classification: H04Q

Abstract:
A communications switching station, comprising:a digital switch comprising:a plurality of signal terminals including a plurality of inputs and a plurality of outputs, andswitching circuitry adapted to operate at a first rate operatively connected between the inputs and the outputs, anda sub-rate interface circuit includinga first signal terminal operatively connected to at least one of the signal terminals of the digital switch,a second signal terminal,programmable circuitry connected between the first signal terminal and the second signal terminal, the programmable circuitry being operative at a second rate, the second rate being lower than the first rate,at least a third signal terminal operatively connected to at least one of the signal terminals of the digital switch,at least a fourth signal terminal for connection to external signal channels operating at the second rate, andfurther programmable circuitry connected between the third signal terminal and the fourth signal terminal.