Open call improves flexibility of ATM Switches

Telephone products have always been known for their reliability, because they support multiple protocols that allow different types of voice transmission streams to be transmitted on a single platform.

A new architecture called the open call model can give the data platform the same level of flexibility: it allows various services to control their own calls on a network platform. The open call architecture does not try to provide different service signaling between the ATM and various EDGE/core technologies, but opens the control structure to various transmission streams.

The open call model makes it possible for a new generation of Multi-Service switches. In such vswitches, the connected end is controlled by the IP Call Control soft switch, and the other end adopts Multi-Protocol Label Switching MPLS) signaling. For example, if the voice is transmitted together with the multi-service backbone transmission stream of other IP core services by a data network such as a DSL voice or Cable Modem, the transmitter may want these voice circuits to be controlled by some technology that understands their features

In an open call model, for various types of call control, such as MGCP for voice control and dedicated network for ATM transmission stream, network interface, PNNI, or MPLS for IP addresses, the multi-service control plane becomes transparent and open. These technologies are some signaling technologies that can control calls in multiple service networks. Older ATM systems only know PNNI and static configurations, while the new generation of Multi-Service ATM allows different services to freely bypass such restrictions.

Currently, any application can be expanded and optimized based on the ever-changing multi-service environment. VPN services, content caching, voice gateway, and subscribers can be managed by using an open call model based on the ATM or IP address service architecture. New service technologies can also be supported using any signaling technology they need.

The open call model brings great advantages to the open multi-service architecture and the flexible use of their technology and business options for providers. Because this architecture does not limit the choice of technology, it is a kind of starting and lasting change. The open model not only connects old-fashioned ATMs with new IP networks, it also creates a service environment that makes them more closely integrated, integrates them with other network technologies, and can even be separated as needed.

For example, services on the networks of regional operators can come from non-regulated subsidiaries, or from private enterprise lines and public exchange telephone network service entities independent of the transmitter. Each user needs a way to control their own lines on the network using any protocol and configuration/billing/management system suitable for their own.

The open call model allows providers to directly control network components and incorporate them into existing network management systems. Although the old-fashioned platform uses a gateway-specific management interface that needs to be connected to the carrier's network operating system, the open call model allows the operator's operating system to interact directly. Routes can be configured using Circulation Management, and open protocols such as Common Object Request proxy architecture are directly connected to any world-class operation support system.

The flexibility of the open call model helps eliminate some obstacles for migrating from Multi-Service ATM to the Next Generation IP address. It creates a more compatible environment in which services can implement the original control using ATM or any other transmission architecture.

For carriers and vendors, it is easy to open the data layer to the multi-service transmission stream. To make it easier to migrate public networks, the control layer of these products must be open to make full use of service management and call control models. Only in this case can the transmitter hopefully migrate smoothly to future services.

1. Analysis of MPLS technology: converged routers and ATM Switches
2. ATM Switch