Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A protocol for use in a system including a first node, a second node and, in some instances, a third node, each of the first, second and third nodes coupled to each other of the first, second and third nodes by means of a point to point packet-based communication system defines transactions for transferring variable amounts of data from one node to another. A GET transaction allows an instigator node to send a packet to a partner node. The packet specifies data length, and an address in the partner node's resource. The partner node returns a packet to the instigator node, the packet containing the data. A PUT transaction similarly allows an instigator node to send a packet specifying a response port identifier, a data length and an address in a partner node's resource to which data is to be written. The partner returns a packet containing the response port identifier and a data port identifier. The instigator node includes the data port identifier in a packet containing the data. A PROXY transaction is disclosed which allows an instigator node to cause a source partner node to send data to a target (destination) partner node. Other transactions are also disclosed. In each instance, port identifiers accompany packets in order to associate received data with a particular transaction. A discovery protocol allows an instigator node to use the data transfer protocol to determine the topology of the ring architecture to which it is coupled. The ring architecture includes bridge nodes.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim