ATM – Asynchronous Transfer Mode

Short for Asynchronous Transfer Mode, ATM is a type of network technology based on transferring data in cells or packets of a fixed size. The cell used with ATM is relatively small compared to units used with older technologies. The small, constant cell size allows ATM equipment to transmit video, audio, and computer data over the same network, and assure that no single type of data hogs the line.

Some people think that ATM holds the answer to the Internet bandwidth problem, but others are skeptical. ATM creates a fixed channel, or route, between two points whenever data transfer begins. This differs from TCP/IP, in which messages are divided into packets and each packet can take a different route from source to destination. This difference makes it easier to track and bill data usage across an ATM network, but it makes it less adaptable to sudden surges in network traffic.

When purchasing ATM service, you generally have a choice of four different types of service:

  • constant bit rate (CBR): specifies a fixed bit rate so that data is sent in a steady stream. This is analogous to a leased line.
  • variable bit rate (VBR): provides a specified throughput capacity but data is not sent evenly. This is a popular choice for voice and videoconferencing data.
  • available bit rate (ABR): provides a guaranteed minimum capacity but allows data to be burstedat higher capacities when the network is free.
  • unspecified bit rate (UBR): does not guarantee any throughput levels. This is used for applications, such as file transfer, that can tolerate delays.
  • Vangie Beal
    Vangie Beal
    Vangie Beal is a freelance business and technology writer covering Internet technologies and online business since the late '90s.
    Get the Free Newsletter
    Subscribe to Daily Tech Insider for top news, trends & analysis
    This email address is invalid.
    Get the Free Newsletter
    Subscribe to Daily Tech Insider for top news, trends & analysis
    This email address is invalid.

    Related Articles

    Embedded Analytics

    Embedded analytics brings self-service business intelligence to everyday application users.

    HRIS

    Human resources information system (HRIS) solutions help businesses manage multiple facets of their workforce operations. They provide a central platform for human resources professionals...

    Complete List of Cybersecurity Acronyms

    Cybersecurity news and best practices are full of acronyms and abbreviations. Without understanding what each one means, it's difficult to comprehend the significance of...

    Human Resources Management System

    A Human Resources Management System (HRMS) is a software application that supports many functions of a company's Human Resources department, including benefits administration, payroll,...

    ScalaHosting

    ScalaHosting is a leading managed hosting provider that offers secure, scalable, and affordable...

    HRIS

    Human resources information system (HRIS) solutions help businesses manage multiple facets of their...

    Best Managed Service Providers...

    In today's business world, managed services are more critical than ever. They can...