Abstract: A communications switching module (CSM) serving as common switching equipment for work stations in a star-topology Ethernet local area network. Both voice and data are incorporated in master Ethernet packets which are transmitted at a constant rate. The CSM switches the voice signals synchronously over a time domain multiplexed highway and separately switches the data signals asynchronously over a high speed packet bus.

Abstract: A local area network of devices connected to a Communication Switching Module (CSM) carry both delay-sensitive information and non-delay sensitive user data in master Ethernet packets transmitted over the LAN at a constant rate. Signaling and control information from the devices initialize a permanent virtual connection (PVC) between devices and the CSM. The signaling and control information is contained in standard Ethernet packets which are encapsulated along with non-delay sensitive data in the master Ethernet packets and performs various control functions for the LAN devices and the CSM.

Abstract: A permanent virtual connection (PVC) is automatically set up over an Ethernet local area network (LAN) link between a work station device having a digital telephone and a Communications Switching Module (CSM) when the device is first connected to the LAN. The PVC is established by exchange of information in standard Ethernet packets between the device and the CSM. Automatic reservation of a full duplex PVC for digital telephone signaling and control information enables set up and break down of voice channels within the same PVC by exchange of signaling information in standard Ethernet packets.