Architecture and performance of a distributed mixed voice/data switching system with variable bit-rate lines

The authors discuss the major aspects of an integrated office network-the integrated switching system (ISS)-in terms of structure, operation, and behavior. The ISS provides service flexibility through the use of a line structure which provides variable bit-rates, enabling line capacity to be varied on demand, and a flexible switching strategy which increases system efficiency. The system behavior is examined to investigate the effect that the provision of variable line capacity has on overall system performance, taking into account two switching algorithms which can be supported by such a system. It is shown that one particular algorithm based on the least busy path offers significant advantage in relation to the system's ability to route calls and support a wide combination of line speeds.<>