Importance

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Abstract

The present invention provides a new type of router, called a PACS router, to build an improved IP network in which high-quality services such as voice and best-effort data services can be provided with higher reliability and lower cost. A PACS router includes a packet-switching fabric and a circuit-switching fabric interconnected by channelized high-speed links. A network built with PACS routers uses signaling and routing protocols to segregate traffic into different classes and route them using circuit-channels and packet-channels depending on quality of service requirements. Routing high-quality service over circuit-channels eliminates transit delay typically incurred in packet-switching fabrics, enhances reliability from software malfunction in the router and enhances network scalability by not having to terminate all traffic into packet-switching fabrics in every router. The circuit-switching fabrics in the PACS routers provide further immunity by fast rerouting of failed circuits via alternate routes when a network fault is detected.

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First Claim