Telecommunication system with improved reconfiguration flexibility

Abstract

A second set of telecommunication devices is arranged to substantially mirror a first set of telecommunication devices in order to provide redundancy. First and second computer modules are included, respectively, in the first and second sets of devices wherein each module is capable of providing operating system control of the system and both modules initially operating with the same operating system. Only one of the computer modules controls the system at a given time. One of the devices of each pair of devices in the first and second sets of devices is isolated from the corresponding other device. The isolated computer module is loaded with a new operating system and tested by allowing the new operating system to control the isolated devices. This permits testing of the new operating system while maintaining uninterrupted control which is provided by the other devices operating under the same operating system. A further capability is provided for transferring control of the system to the isolated devices thereby transferring control from the same operating system to the new operating system with a minimum of service disruption.