A transition architecture to SONET networks

In their migration to SONET (synchronous optical network), network providers will be faced with the need to operate both their present asynchronous and their growing synchronous networks simultaneously. Operating these combined networks will require innovative approaches to the unique characteristics of both networks. One means to provide a transition strategy for today's network toward SONET is a mediation device. An architecture for a mediation device supporting both asynchronous and synchronous network equipment is presented. The common view of the network will follow the Bellcore TA-200 recommendation for X.25 and TL/1. The architecture is based on the INM system developed by the NEC. >