Multicast ATM switch architecture based on a recursive method

This paper proposes simple architecture to support multicasting in ATM switches. The proposed architecture consists of a self-routing switch which enables us to copy cell and line interfaces with a header conversion part. Our finding is that multicast can be realized by the method as follows; (1) copying cells in the switch; (2) recurring the copied cells from output ports to input ports; (3) changing the header information; (4) inputting the cells to the switch again. This proposed recursive multicast method has four main advantages. First, we can use normal line interfaces for the multicast function. Secondly, the number of lines connecting input and output can change the performance of the multicast very easily. Thirdly, this method can lower the cost of the hardware more than other approaches. Finally, it enables us to input plural cells in one physical port. In addition, this method has proved to provide an acceptable quality after experiment using a paper prototype system.