Multi-media networks based on fibre core networks and ATM technology will provide the broadband communications platform for both business and entertainment services with integrated transmission of voice, data and visual information direct to the workstation or set-top unit. The demand for Internet is driving capacity needs rapidly towards WDM. Issues concerning end-to-end performance such as reliability, capacity, delay, efficiency, signalling, management and cost, all need to be resolved and agreed for ATM to become the promised ubiquitous service platform. End-to-end broadband signalling is key to enabling viable broadband services.
