Abstract: Disclosed is a circuit and method for utilizing FLASH devices as nonvolatile storage elements. Information is modified by adding a new block of data at another location in the memory rather than writing over the outdated information. An address pointer locates the latest information for each data file.

Abstract: Disclosed is a circuit which allows an n-bit time slot interchanger (TSI) to process m-bit wide information, where m is some fraction of n. A packing circuit receives the information from the TSI in the form of a series of n-bit segments. The circuit will choose m bits from each segment and produce an n-bit output which includes the m-bit segments in a desired order. The n-bit output can then be looped back to the TSI for insertion into an appropriate time slot.

Abstract: Disclosed is a communications network for peripherals in a digital loop carrier transmission system. A broadcast STAR network is employed so that all peripherals receive any message which is broadcast by any of the peripherals. No peripheral broadcasts without clearance from the active communications hub. Two hubs can be provided to alternatively act as the active hub. Each peripheral includes a controller which transmits a request to send signal, multiplexes the request to send signal with an outgoing message, receives clear to send signals, and demultiplexes the clear to send signals from an incoming message.