Abstract: A communication switching system in which control functions are distributed homogeneously, as opposed to being distributed by individual function, throughout the system. A plurality of controllers are coupled to a time division multiplex (TDM) bidirectional bus. Each controller includes a microprocessor to perform control functions. An interface element on the controller accesses the TDM bus while a switching element on each controller controls access between the interface element and the microprocessor. The switching element and interface element include storage areas which are double buffered to allow for more efficient operation and use of the memory space. The TDM bus is divided into a plurality of time slots. Each controller is assigned certain of the time slots and utilizes those time slots to communicate with other controllers. The system includes provisions for dynamic allocation of time slots.