Abstract: A data processing apparatus, and in particular to a data processing apparatus for use in a telecommunications system is disclosed which seeks to provide an improved technique for handling asynchronous events in a synchronous processing environment. The data processing apparatus comprises a data processing unit operable to process data from a synchronous data stream. The data processing apparatus also comprises conversion logic operable to receive an asynchronous event for processing by the data processing unit, the conversion logic being further operable to create event data representing the asynchronous event for transmission in the synchronous data stream. Providing conversion logic which converts an asynchronous event into event data transmissible within the synchronous data stream enables the data processing unit, when operating in a synchronous environment, to handle the asynchronous event in the same manner as any other synchronous data it may receive.

Abstract: The present invention provides a data processing apparatus and method for a telecommunications system, the apparatus being operable to pass data packets between a first interface connectable to a first transport mechanism and a second interface connectable to a second transport mechanism. The data processing apparatus comprises a plurality of processing elements including the first and second interfaces, and operable to perform predetermined control functions to control the passing of data packets between the first and second interfaces, predetermined connections being provided between the processing elements.