Abstract: A telecommunication method for providing packets to at least one of a first and a second network are described. A telephone set connects the first network to the second network. The telephone set forwards packets received from one network to the other network, generates packets from signals locally inputted into the telephone set and forwards such generated packets to at least one of the networks, and performs actions prescribed by packets received by and addressed to the telephone set. Packets addressed to the telephone set may or may not be forwarded. On-time delivery of voice data packets is ensured by limiting the time that such packets can await transmission onto the network. When the time for forwarding a voice data packet exceeds a permitted time limit, that packet can be replaced by a new packet. The new packet can include the same or different data as the replaced packet.

Abstract: An optical switch employs a modified sagnac arrangement that includes a sagnac loop and a coupler for injecting a signal into the loop and developing thereby two signals that travel along the loop in opposite directions. The coupler has at least one signal port that is accessible from outside the switch. In addition, a coupler is included to inject a pump signal into the loop to travel through the loop only in one direction. The loop is made of, or comprises, a material that has a controllable propagation speed. More particularly, the propagation speed in the material is a function of, for example, the intensity of the pump signal. The switch action is attained when the applied signals are in the form of pulses with pulse widths and relative positions are controlled to achieve a particular interaction. The switch action is observed by sending a pulse down a sagnac loop and observing its return.