High density unit shelf with network interface cards and method

• Main Authors: JETTE; MICHAEL H, CANTWELL; ROBERT W
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 12.12.2000
• Edition: 7
• Subjects: ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE; ELECTRICITY; TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHICCOMMUNICATION

A network interface card (100) includes a line interface unit (102) operable to receive inbound network telecommunications signals having one of a plurality of first formats. A transceiver framer unit (104) converts the inbound network telecommunications signals from the first format to a second format. A matrix interface unit (106) transports the inbound network telecommunications signals having the second format to a pair of redundant switching matrix planes (A, B). The matrix interface unit (106) also receives outbound, network telecommunications signals having the second format from the redundant switching planes (A, B) for transport to the transceiver framer unit (104). The transceiver framer unit (104) converts the outbound network telecommunications signals from the second format to an appropriate first format for transport to network elements through the line interface unit (102).