Patent ID: 6195704
Filing Date: 2001-02-27
Classification: H04L,H04Q

Abstract:
A loop-type network system, comprising:a plurality of node devices each having a first plurality of circuit interfaces connected to at least three input ports, a second plurality of circuit interfaces connected to at least three output ports, an ATM switch for connecting the first and second circuit interfaces, and path establishing means for establishing a communication path through the ATM switch;a communication route for connecting the plurality of node devices in a loop configuration; anda plurality of communication terminals connected to the plurality of node devices,wherein, a transmission path using a virtual channel identifier (VCI) and virtual path identifier (VPI) is established that connects at least two of the plurality of communications terminals via the communication route;wherein a reception path using the same virtual channel identifier (VCI) and virtual path identifier (VPI) but a different route than the transmission path is established that connects the at least two communication terminals via the communication route; andwherein a spare communication path that connects the at least two communication terminals is established that uses the same virtual channel identifier (VCI) and virtual path identifier (VPI) as the transmission and reception paths but in an opposite direction than the transmission and reception paths.