ZyXEL p-660r-t1 v2 Manual Do Utilizador

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P-660R-Tx v2 Series User’s Guide
Virtual Circuit Topology
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Virtual Circuit Topology
ATM is a connection-oriented technology, meaning that it sets up virtual circuits over which 
end systems communicate. The terminology for virtual circuits is as follows:
Figure 100   Virtual Circuit Topology
Think of a virtual path as a cable that contains a bundle of wires. The cable connects two 
points and wires within the cable provide individual circuits between the two points. In an 
ATM cell header, a VPI (Virtual Path Identifier) identifies a link formed by a virtual path; a 
VCI (Virtual Channel Identifier) identifies a channel within a virtual path. 
The VPI and VCI identify a virtual path, that is, termination points between ATM switches. A 
series of virtual paths make up a virtual circuit.
• Virtual Channel
Logical connections between ATM switches
• Virtual Path
A bundle of virtual channels
• Virtual Circuits
A series of virtual paths between circuit end point