Patent ID: 6304579
Filing Date: 2001-10-16
Classification: H04M,H04Q

Abstract:
An apparatus in a digital network system, comprising:a source terminal, having,a source processor, configured to execute a source terminal program that forms a setup message having a 1.times.N extension message contained therein and configured to include a 1.times.N extension message indicator in the 1.times.N extension message,a source memory accessible to the source processor and configured to hold the source terminal program and the 1.times.N extension message indicator for inclusion in said 1.times.N extension message, anda source terminal interface configured to be coupled to a 1.times.N network switch, said 1.times.N network switch having a 1.times.N extension mechanism configured to detect a presence of said 1.times.N extension message indicator, configured to establish communications with N destination facilities identified in said 1.times.N extension message when said 1.times.N extension message indicator is detected, and configured to send a data message to said N destination facilities, said data message being provided by said source terminal, whereinsaid 1.times.N extension message includes addresses that identify the N destination facilities so as to enable said 1.times.N network switch to route the data message to said N destination facilities.