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Abstract

Communication control apparatus for interconnecting one or more digital devices to one or more other digital devices, or more specifically for interconnecting a moderate to large number of user terminals, main frame computer systems, minicomputers, remote digital devices, and the like, using some of the concepts inherent in statistical multiplexers, intelligent switches, and local area network devices, all implemented in a compact configuration to produce a flexible and cost effective approach to data communication interfaces. The communication control apparatus replaces and simplifies the actual terminal connections from the computer interface(s) and then adds substantial system enhancements for the manager while retaining software and protocol transparency. A local communication bus is provided for routing of data and control signals internally of the control apparatus. A plurality of synchronous or asynchronous line adapters transreceives corresponding synchronous or asynchronous serial data inputs on a similar corresponding plurality of line ports from respective device terminals, the input data being selectively applied to the local communication bus. A high speed data composite transmission line is provided for transreceiving data between the control apparatus and a remote digital device, such as a host computer. A link interface at the local end of the composite transmission line provides a communication path between the local communication bus and the composite transmission line. A digital device (computer) interface adapter at the remote end of the composite transmission line communicates data between the high speed composite transmission line and a processor bus of the digital device, and a supervisor and bus control device provides source and destination routing control of data on the local communication bus between the line adapters and the link interface.

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First Claim