Multiple paths in a self-routing packet and circuit switching network

Abstract

A communication method and self-routing switching network interconnecting a plurality of interface controllers for communicating packets and circuit switched information via multiple paths within the self-routing switching network. The latter comprises stages of switch nodes that are grouped into pairs. The stages are interconnected by links and each pair of switch nodes shares the same set of input links from the preceding stage. In response to receipt of address information from a destination interface controller transmitted via a link, a pair of nodes determines one of a multitude of paths through the switching network by one of the pair responding to the address information to communicate the address information to the next sequential stage after establishing a path through that particular switch node. Once a path has been established through the switching network, an acknowledge signal is transmitted back through the network to the destination trunk controller indicating that the path has been established. The path remains established until the end field of the packet is detected or the proper end information is transmitted after transmission of the circuit switched information. The architecture of the switching network is such that no additional switch nodes are required beyond what would be required in a conventional self-routing network.