Distributed cellular communication system architecture for the co-existence of multiple technologies

Abstract

The distributed cellular communication system architecture for the co-existence of multiple technologies uses the mapping table capability of the Asynchronous Transfer Mode network and the multi-layer nature of the signaling protocol that is used in cellular communication networks to transparently interconnect cellular communication network elements that use different technologies and/or signaling protocols. The present distributed cellular communication system architecture avoids the need for significant changes in the cellular call processing software to accommodate new cellular communication network components by inserting signal routing data into the Asynchronous Transfer Mode network routing tables to thereby interconnect signals between compatible endpoints that are connected to the Asynchronous Transfer Mode network. The layer and layer protocols of the Asynchronous Transfer Mode network are used as the conduit that carries the signals between endpoints and are the same for all technologies and signaling protocols. The data contained in the upper layers of the multi-layer protocol are technology and signaling protocol specific, but are not interpreted by the Asynchronous Transfer Mode network, they are simply routed to a designated endpoint pursuant to the data entries in the routing tables of the Asynchronous Transfer Mode network.