Abstract: A method and apparatus for efficiently transporting DS-X traffic in packet form over an ATM or other packet network. Specifically, virtual connection or slot provisioning and/or cell concentration techniques are used to compact the amount of DS-X traffic broadcast between communications system devices such as the access mux and the communications switch and spare bandwidth. In provisioning, a configured DS-X loading of an end node supporting DS-X traffic is ascertained. In turn, a minimum number of virtual connections for bearing packetized DS-X traffic are established, either at communications system configuration or as needed. In concentration processing, a dynamic association between the virtual connections and the DS-X traffic is established, typically on a per frame basis. Only those digital channels entering the node within a given time frame which actually bear DS-X traffic will be assigned a slot within packet. Concentration may be augmented by provisioning to further reduce bandwidth requirements.

Abstract: A call parking and paging system includes a call parking entity and a paging entity. The call parking entity receives a call and automatically parks the call, in some operations against a designated resource. The paging entity provides a page based upon an intended recipient of the call. Upon receiving a response to the page, the call parking and paging system may then assist in delivering the parked call. The call parking and paging system may be supported by a PBX, by a telephone system central exchange or by another communication system. Additional features may include a voice processing system, a validation entity, a directory system, a messaging system and an information database. Paging resources support voice pages, electronic pages and email that apprise the intended recipient of the parked call.

Abstract: A communication system facilitates both voice and data communications between endpoint devices and includes a switch and at least one peripheral device. The switch includes a switch interface while each peripheral devices includes a peripheral device interface. In combination, the switch and the peripheral device route communications through an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) network. However, the switch interface and the peripheral device interface operate so that the communications, from the viewpoint of the switch and the peripheral device, are seamlessly transferred in a native communication protocol which may be a time switched protocol. Each peripheral device couples to a respective plurality of endpoint devices. Each peripheral device then connects to the ATM network via a respective peripheral device interface. The switch couples to the ATM network via the switch interface. In its operation, the switch sets up calls from one endpoint device to another endpoint device.