Abstract: In order to enable nodes with a single protocol switch core to be used in a synchronous transmission network carrying both SDH and SONET traffic then one option is to convert traffic between protocols at the various network nodes. For example, if the network node has a switch core arranged for SONET, then when SDH traffic arrives at that node it can first be converted to SONET before being processed by the switch core and then converted back to SDH again if required. Known methods of converting between SONET and SDH are not suited for use at egress points of network nodes where pointer alignment processes do not occur. A new method of converting between SONET and SDH is described which overcomes these problems by reordering the position of stuff columns.

Abstract: In order to enable nodes with a single protocol switch core to be used in a synchronous transmission network carrying both SDH and SONET traffic then one option is to convert traffic between protocols at the various network nodes. For example, if the network node has a switch core arranged for SONET, then when SDH traffic arrives at that node it can first be converted to SONET before being processed by the switch core and then converted back to SDH again if required. Known methods of converting between SONET and SDH are not suited for use at egress points of network nodes where pointer alignment processes do not occur. A new method of converting between SONET and SDH is described which overcomes these problems by reordering the position of stuff columns.

Abstract: A narrow-width modular printing mechanism for a printer includes an integrated platen/service station assembly positioned within the printer. The integrated platen/service station assembly includes a platen member and a service station mechanically coupled together. The service station includes a bottom portion, at least one cap, at least one wiper and a mechanism for displacing the caps and the wipers relative to the bottom portion. The platen member is formed with apertures which are positioned and sized to facilitate displacement of the caps and the wipers through the platen member. In a preferred embodiment, the integrated platen/service station assembly is configured to accommodate a front-in, front-out paper path of the printer. In a preferred embodiment, the platen/service station assembly includes an actuator fork assembly. In a preferred embodiment, the platen/service station assembly includes a self-aligning cap sled.