Importance

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Abstract

A metro switch and method for transporting data configured according to multiple different formats. In one aspect, a network system and method that provides for point-to-point communication of data of various different formats such as ATM, frame relay, PPP, Ethernet, etc. Accordingly, the invention may interface disparate network devices, such as private networks and other entities that operate according to various different protocols and that use various different media. At ingress points to the system, the data is received from data sources and configured according to a universal format. This allows data from origins that use different data formats and/or transmission media to be mixed and transported onto the same media. The data is then transported to one or more destinations using this format. At egress points of the system, the data is reconverted to its original format for use at its destination. Thus, transportation of various different communication services and distribution to respective destinations is provided through a high-speed interconnect. Because the data is converted to a universal format and reconverted to its original format as needed, various different data formats may be accommodated and may share the same communication media.

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First Claim