Integrating ATM and fiber channel into large-scale legacy LAN networks
Thomas J. Clark · Proceedings of SPIE, the International Society for Optical Engineering/Proceedings of SPIE · 1995
The recent availability of asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), fiber channel (FCH), and other data communications technolgies presents an opportunity to dramatically improve the performance of large-scale legacy LAN networks. Integrating these new technologies must be carefully planned and executed. Rapid, complete deployment of these technologies is not feasible because of potential interoperability problems with deployed technologies. Phased migration consistent with standards-approved applications is required. Scaleable coherent interface (SCI) is a new technology that couples systems via their RAM memories. With it, clustered systems can be architected in which elements can be dedicated to specific functions, e.g., handling ATM and FCH. Herein SCI is used to attach a Gateway to an existing node and thereby integrate both ATM and FCH. A prototype network is being developed as a testbed to determine the hardware and software operating systems and applications suitable for such an application.