System and method for provisioning virtual circuit orders on an asynchronous transfer mode subnetwork

Abstract

A storage structure includes a plurality of sequentially arranged positions, each position for holding one order at a time. One of the positions is an end position from which an order is to be taken up for provisioning. Each order in a position moves to the next sequential position toward the end position, as the next sequential position becomes empty and available. The positions are organized into a first section and a second section. The first section is distal from the end position and includes at least one position. The first section receives orders from a first order delivery system into a receiving position. The second section is proximate to the end position and includes at least one position. The second section receives orders from a second order delivery system into a receiving position. If the second section cannot receive an order from the second order delivery system due to the receiving position thereof already holding an order, a pre-determined interval is observed prior to attempting to again receive the order. The pre-determined interval is selected to allow enough orders in the storage structure to be taken up and to allow the receiving position of the second section to become empty.