Methods for implementing SS7 functions are proposed for a large-capacity decentralized switching node; they satisfy the condition of hiding distributed configurations from adjacent nodes. First, line accommodation and acquisition methods are clarified for a large-capacity switching node in which multiple modules are used to realize trunk circuits and SS7 signaling links. Two methods are then proposed for allocating SS7 functions within the switching node. One distributes the functions over multiple circuit-switched modules (distributed allocation) while the other centralizes the functions in dedicated signaling modules (centralized allocation). We quantitatively evaluate both methods in terms of node scale versus the number of modules and signaling links required, the inter-module data transfer rate required, and the node traffic handling capacity when a particular module fails. From the evaluation results, we show that the distributed allocation should be employed for small-scale nodes and the centralized allocation for large-scale nodes. We also show the effectiveness of a method for avoiding a characteristic problem that arises when a particular module fails. Finally, we implement an experimental system as an example.

This paper describes key technologies for establishing a large-scale public switching node system architecture for handling voice and telephony over ATM (VTOA). VTOA is one of the most promising ATM applications, which allows network operating companies to provide a less-expensive but relatively high quality telephone service, by employing voice-data compression and the efficient transmission capabilities of AAL2. We discuss several technical aspects of VTOA handling system architecture, such as the optimum basis for the node, i. e. , STM versus ATM, the appropriate network structure, and suitable signalling. These key points are evaluated from the standpoints of economy, ease of implementation, and extensibility. Our proposed methods should provide the basis for constructing an efficient and cost-effective VTOA handling network.

A highly reliable, operated efficiently, and scalable switching node is required for multivendor system management networks. This paper presents techniques for applying the Telecommunications Management Network (TMN) concept to a distributed switching node. First, we select the TMN protocol structures so as to minimize the command response time. To ensure efficient operation and flexible design of the operation, administration and maintenance (OA & M) software, we propose a command-message handling function for mapping managed objects (MOs) to the OA & M software. We have designed MO classes for switching-system-specific devices with a redundant configuration that ensures highly reliable system operation. The feasibility of these techniques have been confirmed on a prototype system.