Patent ID: 6377992
Filing Date: 2002-04-23
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
In an apparatus for executing bi-directional communication with another apparatus wherein the apparatus has a processor and memory configured to execute operations in accordance with the ISO OSI model for data communications including network layer means for executing a network layer set of operations for communicating over a single physical link and a data link layer means for executing a set of data link operations in response to said network layer set of operations, each in accordance with the ISO OSI model, the improvements comprising:a first network interface card for communicating data over a first physical link connected with said another apparatus in a first direction to said another apparatus; said data link layer means including a first data link driver means for controlling said first network interface card; a second network interface card for communicating data over a second physical link connected with said another apparatus in a second direction from said another apparatus; said data link means including a second data link driver means for controlling said second network interface card; first interfacing means for receiving output data from said network layer set of operations to be transmitted in said first direction associated with a unique address and for controlling said data link layer means to effect transmission of said output data via said first network interface card; and second interfacing means for receiving input data from said data link operations which is transmitted in said second direction and received by said second network interface card for transferring said input data to said network layer set of operations in association with only said unique address.