ATM Access Device Auto Configuration via Discovery Packets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional asynchronous transfer mode access devices require complex configuration for packet encapsulation, Virtual Path Identifier, and Virtual Channel Identifier settings, necessitating changes in both the device and central office, which is a barrier to market acceptance and increases costs for both manufacturing and customer service.
Innovation Solution
A method that automatically configures asynchronous transfer mode access devices by generating discovery packets with specific headers, transmitting them to a central office, and establishing valid virtual path identifier, virtual channel identifier, and encapsulation values based on received responses, eliminating the need for end-user configuration and central office changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If automatic configuration methods are implemented, then configuration complexity for end users is reduced, but changes in the central office are required which are barriers to market acceptance
Solution Approach 1:
The access device automatically configures itself by generating discovery packets and receiving configuration parameters from the central office without requiring manual user configuration. The device performs self-testing and self-configuration operations, eliminating the need for user intervention while maintaining compatibility with existing central office equipment.
2Ease of operation
If configuration is done at the factory, then configuration is predetermined, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The access device includes pre-programmed discovery packet generation capabilities and configuration routines that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. However, the actual configuration parameters are not hard-coded but are dynamically obtained from the central office through the automated discovery process, combining preliminary preparation with flexible runtime configuration.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual configuration is required, then configuration accuracy can be ensured, but customer service costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration process uses feedback mechanisms where the access device sends discovery packets and receives configuration parameters from the central office. The system iteratively tests and adjusts configuration settings based on responses from the central office, ensuring accurate configuration while eliminating the need for manual customer service intervention.
4Adaptability or versatility
If special software is installed on end user equipment, then multiple internet service providers can be serviced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The access device incorporates universal discovery packet generation and configuration routines that can work with multiple service providers and network configurations. The device uses standard protocols and packet formats that are widely compatible, allowing it to service multiple internet service providers without requiring provider-specific software installations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for obtaining virtual path identifier, virtual channel identifier, and encapsulation values in an asynchronous transfer mode access device for a network using either non-static or static internet protocol address assignments and asynchronous transfer mode adaptation layer 5. In the non-static environment, a plurality of discovery packets are generated, but in the static environment, a plurality of address resolution protocol packets are generated. Headers are added to the plurality of packets, such that a first set of packets, each packet including a logical link control header, and a second set of packets, each packet including a virtual channel multiplexed header, are realized. The first and second sets of packets are encapsulated and then transmitted to a central office. It is determined if a valid response packet has been received to any of the transmitted packets, and a virtual path identifier/virtual channel identifier pair value and encapsulation value are established, based upon a virtual path identifier/virtual channel identifier pair value and encapsulation value of the received valid response. The established virtual path identifier/virtual channel identifier pair value and encapsulation value are utilized for transferring data between the asynchronous transfer mode access device and a central office.