Following the news that it is deepening its relationship with Cisco Systems Inc (CI No 2,603), Southborough, Massachusetts-based Chipcom Corp has outlined its blueprint for migrating customers to Asynchronous Transfer Mode. Called the Chipcom Cornerstone Networking Architecture, the road-map envisions a three-phase migration to full virtual networking. Phase one is intended to provide users with visual tools, this is due to ship this summer, enabling them to view networks logically as users communicating with resources. Phase two will see the company delivering Asynchronous Mode switching and local area network-to-Asynchronous Mode switching on the Chipcom ONcore Switching System, enabling users to build hybrid virtual networks by switching their existing local area networks, and sub-networks onto emulated Asynchronous Mode local networks. Phase three is intended to build on this, to include full multiprotocol over Asynchronous Mode Layer 3 switching, using specifications under development in the ATM Forum. In this way, says Chipcom, it will provide full virtualisation of network topologies. In terms of products, Chipcom is planning a range of ATM Switch/Control Point and User Network Interface Modules for the ONcore Switching System. Workgroup products will include an Asynchronous Mode version of the ONsemble StackSystem workgroup hub, and personal computer and workstation adaptor boards for Asynchronous Mode to the desktop. To facilitate local network-to-Asynchronous Mode migration, an ONsemble local area network-to-Asynchronous Mode bridge will be developed, as will multiprotocol local network-Asynchronous Transfer switching modules for the ONcore, and local network emulation services for Asynchronous Mode nets. The company’s ONdemand Network Control System will also be enhanced for management of Asynchronous Mode networks, says Chipcom. There is no indication of timescale or pricing.
