Abstract: Detection of the packet type of information packets received at a node in a packet based communications network is accomplished by comparing information from each received packet to a table (62) of possible packet types. After packet type has been identified, the corresponding packet is routed for processing based on type. For increased processing speed, the comparison with each of the entries in the table (62) can be performed substantially simultaneously. In one embodiment, a content addressable memory (CAM, 48) is utilized to store the table (62) information and to perform the required comparisons. In addition, wired OR means (50) is provided for use in reducing the total number of entries in the table (62). In a preferred embodiment, the cell types of asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) cells are detected.

Abstract: A 2.times.2 Batcher switching element (18) and a 2.times.2 banyan switching element (19) are formed utilizing dynamic charge storage devices (DL1, DL2, ILD0) and pipelined processing (100, 300). This enables the Batcher and banyan switching elements to be fast enough to switch data cells which are transmitted using the Asynchronous Transfer Mode.

Abstract: A full access, non-blocking, self-routing packet switch based on a Batcher sorting network is disclosed. Fake place holding packets are utilized along with a conflict resolution scheme to insure that during each packet switch cycle a packet is routed from each input port to each output port. The use of fake place holding packets insures that real packets which contain user data can be routed to the outputs having the addresses contained in their packet headers.