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An important characteristic of Meridian 1 systems is a modular system
architecture. It utilizes an efficient and flexible approach, employing
modular construction in all areas of hardware and software, and 
art commercial and custom components. The result is a system which is
highly flexible in terms of operational, maintenance, and administrative
characteristics. As demands dictate, any module may be enhanced,
singularly or in combination with other modules. Each system is organized
around three functional areas: Control, Switching, and Peripherals.

The Control complex provides the sequences required by the system to
process voice and data call connections, monitor call activity, and perform

system administration, maintenance, and testing. It is composed of two
elements: the central processing unit (CPU) which directs lower level
subsystems in the hierarchy, and the system memory which stores the
operating programs.

The switching function is performed by the network equipment, which
interconnects terminal devices for communication with each other. The
network architecture is based on the concept of a digital multiplexed loop.
A loop is a bidirectional path between Network and terminal device which

transmits voice, data and signalling information.