Subscriber premises' network architectures in a broadband ATM environment

Abstract

In future broadband networks residential and business users will be distinguished, each with their own characteristic requirements. Whereas business users almost exclusively need interactive switched services, the huge number of residential users, on the country, mainly aim at entertainment services, either switched or distributed, at a low, possibly fixed, price. Based on the user requirements a twotier SPN architecture is derived, consisting of a TDN (terminal distribution network) and a BBN (broadband backbone network). Alternative structures for TDN are analysed and compared. A passive tree solution is found to be most suitable for the above-mentioned needs. Although the physical appearance may be quite different, all the given examples have a number of elements in common. This enables common components to be developed. Inside the SPN, especially the residential SPN, the absence of any channel aggregate in ATM is of great advantage. Only the total available bandwidth imposes a restriction on the set up of new calls. This is very important, because SPN encounters a wide variety of user needs, together with a relatively small amount of users. In order to preserve the advantages of ATM in the subscriber area, it is essential to bring ATM down to the terminal.