
Understanding ATM Concepts
114056 Rev. A 2-11
The choice of multiplexing methods that two ATM stations use to exchange
connectionless network traffic depends on the type of virtual circuit involved:
• For PVCs, you select the multiplexing method when you manually configure
the connection.
• For SVCs, the stations themselves negotiate the multiplexing method by
sending B-ISDN signaling messages. These messages include “low-layer
compatibility” information that allows negotiation of AAL5 and the carried
(encapsulation) protocol.
LLC/SNAP Encapsulation
When the same virtual circuit carries several protocols, select LLC/SNAP
encapsulation. LLC/SNAP encapsulation attaches an LLC/SNAP header before
the PDU. This header includes information that the receiver needs to properly
process the incoming PDU. For bridged PDUs, this header also includes the type
of the bridged media.
NULL Encapsulation (VC-Based Multiplexing)
In NULL encapsulation, the carried network protocol is identified implicitly by
the virtual circuit connecting the two ATM stations. Because each protocol must
travel over a separate virtual circuit, there is no need to include explicit
multiplexing information in the payload of the PDU. This means that the
bandwidth requirements and processing overhead remain minimal.
You can either manually configure the carried protocol or let the signaling
procedures negotiate it dynamically during call establishment.
NULL encapsulation cells do not receive a header in a routed environment. In a
bridged environment, the content of the PDU itself includes the necessary
information for bridging the multiplexed protocols.
Note: Routed and bridged PDUs are always encapsulated within the payload
field of the AAL5 CPCS PDU, regardless of the selected multiplexing method.
Comentarios a estos manuales