Abstract: Described is a SDH or SONET telecommunication network element provided with a plurality of interfaces for managing first SDH or SONET flows, comprising: a) a plurality of first layer ports for managing second SDH or SONET flows, wherein the ports are individually programmable as concerns the hierarchical structure of the managed flows, and b) a switching system coupled to the interfaces and to the ports, in order to implement the switching of virtual containers between the SDH or SONET flows, wherein the switching system is programmable as far as the switching to be implemented is concerned.

Abstract: Described is a SDH or SONET telecommunication network element provided with a plurality of interfaces for managing first SDH or SONET flows, comprising: a) a plurality of first layer ports for managing second SDH or SONET flows, wherein the ports are individually programmable as concerns the hierarchical structure of the managed flows, and b) a switching system coupled to the interfaces and to the ports, in order to implement the switching of virtual containers between the SDH or SONET flows, wherein the switching system is programmable as far as the switching to be implemented is concerned.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is described for the integrated management of Client Layer Cross-Connect functionality in an Add-Drop Multiplexer or in a Cross-Connect. The present invention provides for replacing at least one of the I/O ports present in the current apparatuses by a board having a matrix with Client Layer Cross-Connect functionality, such functionality comprising the Server Layer termination and all the functionalities connected to the Client Layer, in addition to the Client Cross-Connect functionality. The apparatus of the invention fully complies with the related ITU and ETSI Recommendations since the access to the ATM matrix is performed through SDH/SONET or PDH standard interfaces. The apparatus is easily upgradable in field.