Abstract: A method and an arrangement are provided for actuating and operating a heterogeneous transport network which includes connection elements, such as ATM and Ethernet connections, by controlling a TDM-based switching system. In the area of the transport network, there are gateways and routers which are actuated by the central control device for the purposes of setting up and clearing down a connection. Information relating to the accessibility of specific communications subscribers by a communication medium and communications protocol is either stored in the area of a central control mechanism or is available locally in the area of local access devices for subscriber terminals.

Abstract: A method and an arrangement are provided for actuating and operating a heterogeneous transport network which includes connection elements, such as ATM and Ethernet connections, by controlling a TDM-based switching system. In the area of the transport network, there are gateways and routers which are actuated by the central control device for the purposes of setting up and clearing down a connection. Information relating to the accessibility of specific communications subscribers by a communication medium and communications protocol is either stored in the area of a central control mechanism or is available locally in the area of local access devices for subscriber terminals.

Abstract: A method and an arrangement are specified for setting up and clearing communications links via a private branch exchange. A number of types of communications device are driven via the same controller. New devices with a transport network for transporting the communications data can thus be integrated in a private branch exchange by using TDM-based devices. The central configuration of the controller allows already existing central interfaces and databases relating to subscribers to be used. If required, service feature controllers can still be used.

Abstract: A method and an arrangement are specified for setting up and clearing communications links via a private branch exchange. The transport network for transporting the communication data is preferably in the form of an ATM network or IP network, and is controlled by a separate control network, separated from it. The advantage is that the two networks are independent of one another, and that broadband communications requirements can be satisfied easily by a modular expansion capability. The central control configuration allows already existing central databases relating to subscribers to be used, and likewise allows connection-related service feature control systems still to be used.

Abstract: The invention describes a novel private branch exchange and the migration solution with respect to existing devices. Communication connections are established via a transport network, the control takes place in a centralized manner by means of a central control device, which is connected to the decentralized switching devices and the interface modules via a two-stage connection, a collection and distribution of the control messages being carried out in a decentralized manner and the control connection from the respective decentralized device to the central control being provided by an ATM network or an Ethernet connection.