Abstract: In a frame aligner, a serial/parallel converter converts an input serial data signal into a first parallel data signal. A first buffer receives the first parallel data signal to generate a first parallel data signal, and a second buffer receives the first parallel data signal to generate a second parallel data signal. A selector selects one of the first and second parallel data signals to generate a third parallel data signal. A parallel/serial converter converts the third parallel data signal into an output serial data signal. A buffer control circuit operates the first and second buffers at different phase timings in accordance with an input frame phase signal. A selector control circuit operates the selector in accordance with a difference in phase between the input frame phase signal and an output frame phase signal.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a multicast system. The system comprises an ATM network. The system comprises a source connected to the ATM network. The system also comprises a first destination connected to the ATM network. The system comprises at least a second destination connected to the ATM network. Additionally, the system comprises a mechanism for adding or dropping connections dynamically between the first source and any destinations at any time. The present invention pertains to a method for multicasting ATM cells. The method comprises the steps of forming a first connection between a first source and a first destination for transmitting a first ATM cell therebetween. Next, there is be step of forming a second connection between the first source and a second destination while the first connection exists. Then there is the step of terminating the first connection while the second connection exists. The present invention pertains to a method for multicasting ATM cells.