Abstract: Matrix recovery and link maintenance for a signaling node in an SS7 network. The signaling node comprises a planar redundant switching matrix with master and standby sides. End devices for trunk interfacing and channel data control receive data and timing from the master side, de-coupled from data and timing paths of the standby side. In steady-state, revenue traffic between the SS7 network and the signaling node runs on the master side in a pulse code modulated (PCM) form. Test channels are set up on both sides. Test patterns are propagated on the test channels for monitoring failures of timing path, PCM data, and device communication. When a failure condition is detected on the master side, the signaling node transmits idle signaling to the network, so that the revenue traffic is suspended and the link is maintained in an in-service state.