Abstract: This invention provides for a system and method for upgrading an ATM network to a new release of a vendor's ATM platform, or for converting an ATM network to a different vendor's ATM platform, preferably without experiencing any service disruptions. The system and method upgrade involves first reorganizing an existing redundant-based ATM network by splitting the links, for example, fiber links, within the existing redundant-based ATM network among two parallel networks, Network A and Network B. Network A can be changed at this stage. Then the circuits from Network B are moved to Network A by using Bridge and Roll techniques. This hitless procedure allows for the migration of the customer traffic from Network B to Network A without customer traffic disruptions.

Abstract: An integrated switch used in a central office for switching combined data packets and voice packets, comprises a separator for separating between the different types of packets by reading the head information in the packets, and a router for routing the separate packets to their respective networks. The router further comprises a converter for translating the voice packets from the AAL2 protocol to the SS7/IMT protocol that can interface the public switched telephone network, and therefore eliminates the use of an expensive class 5 switch. The separator and the router including the converter are integrated in a single hardware platform and are controlled by a common program that runs on a single CPU.

Abstract: A Nonpublished Number Messaging (NPNM) system allows a caller to leave a message for a party having a nonpublished telephone number. When a caller calls directory assistance to request a telephone number, an operator service system (OSS) switch routes the call to a directory assistance operator. The operator enters the requested listing into an operator console and a search is made in an OSS database (DB). When it is determined that the requested telephone number is nonpublished, the OSS switch routes the call to an audio response unit (ARU), which plays a recorded message, and then routes the call to a voice mail service (VMS) provider. The VMS Provider records a message left by the caller and then delivers it to the appropriate party.