Packet switching apparatus with multi-channel and multi-cast switching

Abstract

An improved packet switching apparatus with multichannel and multi-cast switching functions and a packet switching system using the same which are capable of more simplifying the routing of an internal routing during the integration of the switching apparatus by using a simpler 2.times.2 switch device for a concentration network in order to provide a routing network and a recirculation path and by using a pattern connection characteristic consisting of a column and row. The apparatus includes an output group address generator for providing an address information of an output port grouped, a routing unit for receiving a cell which is recirculated through a recirculation path and a newly inputted cell, assigning an output link with respect to the recirculated cell when an output port-dependent address inputted from the output group address generator and a destination address set in a routing tag of a cell inputted by the port are identical, and outputting the cells which was not assigned of the output link through a plurality of bypass links, a recirculation path setting unit for selecting a cell as many as the number of circulation paths among cells outputted from the routing unit through the plurality of the bypass links and for outputting the cells through the recirculation link, and a synchronization unit for receiving a cell which is recirculated from the recirculation path setting unit through the recirculation link.