Abstract: System and method for providing a layer 2 switch in the access network that switches based upon one or more carrier tags identifying customer traffic. Customer traffic conforming to any variety of different layer 1 or layer 2 protocols may be encapsulated and identified according to carrier tag values. The layer 2 switch may determine how to handle the traffic by interpreting and manipulating the carrier tag values. The layer 2 switch may be capable of switching TDM input traffic to either TDM or packet output traffic, and switching packetized input traffic to either TDM or packet output traffic.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for performing automated testing and trouble isolation of a communications link in an access network is described. Communications link testing may occur without taking the communications link out of service for the duration of the test.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for providing access communications between customer locations and a core network service edge. Access flows are handled as carrier-tagged flows through a packet switched network comprising network elements that interpret and manipulate carrier tag values associated with traffic-bearing data frames. Time-division multiplexed (TDM) signals are transported as carrier-tagged flows between customer premise equipment that communicates using TDM signals and a service edge that communicates using TDM signals.

Abstract: System and method for providing a layer 2 switch in the access network that switches based upon one or more carrier tags identifying customer traffic. Customer traffic conforming to any variety of different layer 1 or layer 2 protocols may be encapsulated and identified according to carrier tag values. The layer 2 switch may determine how to handle the traffic by interpreting and manipulating the carrier tag values. The layer 2 switch may be capable of switching TDM input traffic to either TDM or packet output traffic, and switching packetized input traffic to either TDM or packet output traffic. Handling classification values may also be processed by the layer 2 switch to affect prioritization of handling of encapsulated traffic.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for providing access communications between customer locations and a core network service edge. Access flows are handled as carrier-tagged flows through a packet switched network comprising network elements that interpret and manipulate carrier tag values associated with traffic-bearing data frames.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for managing access communications between the service edge of a communications service provider and a customer. Access communications are carried in the form of carrier-tagged flows, the communications traffic being appended with carrier tags having significance to handling of the traffic through access network elements. A building aggregation system is provided which couples to customer premise equipment and interfaces customer flows to carrier-tagged flows used in the access network.

Abstract: A disc assembly, a method for producing the disc assembly, and a corresponding disc drive for recording and reading digital information is disclosed. The disc assembly is assembled without using mechanical fasteners and adhesives. The disc assembly includes a platter sandwiched between a plastic clamp and a hub that engages with the clamp. The hub has a hole through which a stake is inserted. The stake is heated to form a rivet-like structure that holds the clamp to the hub. Alternatively, the clamp may be pressed into a receptacle, such as a channel, to hold the clamp to the hub. The clamp may have a circular bevel surface to self align the clamp to the platter as it is affixed to the hub. The corresponding disc drive includes a spindle motor, transducer and actuator. Methods for producing the disc assembly are disclosed.

Abstract: A disc assembly, a method for producing the disc assembly, and a corresponding disc drive for recording and reading digital information is disclosed. The disc assembly is assembled without using mechanical fasteners and adhesives. The disc assembly includes a platter sandwiched between a plastic clamp and a hub that engages with the clamp. The hub has a hole through which a stake is inserted. The stake is heated to form a rivet-like structure that holds the clamp to the hub. Alternatively, the clamp may be pressed into a receptacle, such as a channel, to hold the clamp to the hub. The clamp may have a circular bevel surface to self align the clamp to the platter as it is affixed to the hub. The corresponding disc drive includes a spindle motor, transducer and actuator. Methods for producing the disc assembly are disclosed.