Abstract: An optical node capable of automatically detecting its interconnectivity is disclosed. The node includes a light switch, a light source, light detector, a control circuit having a unique identification. The node sends its identification via each of its ports and also listens to each of its ports for identification from other nodes. The node may store the interconnectivity information, forward the interconnectivity information to another node, or forward the interconnectivity information to a path router.

Abstract: An optical node capable of automatically detecting its interconnectivity is disclosed. The node includes a light switch, a light source, light detector, a control circuit having a unique identification. The node sends its identification via each of its ports and also listens to each of its ports for identification from other nodes. The node may store the interconnectivity information, forward the interconnectivity information to another node, or forward the interconnectivity information to a path router.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for computer network configuration and address mapping. The invention provides for connecting mobile laptop PCs to a network, without the need to re-configure its network configuration parameters every time. The invention includes a device having a protocol stack configured with a network level protocol address that identifies a first tap point of a local network, so as to provide for data communications between the portable device and a local device connected to a second tap point of the local network, when the portable device is connected to the network at the first tap point of the local network.