Multi-interface point-to-point switching system (mippss) with rapid fault recovery capability

Abstract

A combination delivering signals between a plurality of devices includes a mixed-layer switching fabric, and a controller which controls the mixed-layer switching fabric. According to the present invention, the controller includes a first device for automatically performing fault recognition and fault isolation routines when the multi-interface switching system is initialized and periodically thereafter, and a second device for performing the fault recognition and fault isolation routines on demand. Moreover, the mixed-layer switching fabric further includes a computer controlled switch which establishes one of point-to-point connections and point-to-multipoint connections under the control of the controller, the computer controlled switch comprising a non-volatile memory which stores switch configuration data indicative of a current configuration of the switching fabric to thereby facilitate fail-safe operation of the switching system without requiring re-initialization or re-configuration of the switching system upon power-up of the switching system following an occurrence of a power-down condition of the switching system.