Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A starloop communication network for intraestablishment communication in a multiterminal processing system includes a digital switch as its central terminal. In the basic mode, the switch is configured so that the input from each terminal is switched back to the next terminal forming a loop network. A central processor in the network need only service the output of the first terminal on the loop and the input from the last terminal. The digital switch includes a port connected to monitor activity on the loop. In the event of a failure, the monitor can determine the failing terminal in the loop by use of a binary search around the loop. The failing terminal will be detected by the monitor and automatically isolated from the loop by the digital switch. The communication network may also be configured to include a plurality of terminal devices of equal performance and intelligence, i.e. a plurality of central processors.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim