Host interface design for ATM LANs

ATM (asynchronous transfer mode) is an international telecommunications standard designed for broadband integrated services; it is also well-suited for use within local-area networks. ATM LANs can provide the networking support needed for multimedia communication at rates of 100 Mbits/sec and higher. The authors first analyze the protocol processing required to handle ATM communication. Based on this analysis, they then discuss the architectural issues in the design of host interfaces for ATM local-area networks. In particular, they conclude that a simple host interface, which leaves most of the ATM protocol processing to be done by the host computer, supports good performance for data communication (around 100 Mbits/sec). However, to support real-time video and audio communication, the ATM interface should include an embedded processor.<>