Importance

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Abstract

The system and method of the present invention provide a seamless approach for providing ATM connectivity for a Frame Relay DTE using an intelligent Terminal Adapter (TA). Using the system and method of the present invention, an enhanced Frame Relay protocol runs between the DTE and the ATM TA, the Frame Relay DTE is provided with not only the connectivity to the ATM network but also the full advantages of ATM transport mechanism and, in particular, the connectivity through the ATM network using the SVC connection mechanism. Using the system and method of the present invention, a FR DTE may issue commands to the terminal adapter to set of calls, or connections, with other DTEs (FR or ATM). The terminal adapter then communicates with the ATM network and the destination DTE using the ANSI Q.2931 call establishment procedure (using commands such as Call.sub.-- Set-up, Call.sub.-- Accept, and Call.sub.-- Disconnect) to establish an SVC connection between the communicating DTEs. In addition, the FR DTE sends parameters such as quality of service (QOS), peak bandwidth, etc., so that the Frame Relay DTE can send real-time data, image, voice, or video traffics across the ATM network using the less expensive SVC mechanism.

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First Claim