ATM

ATM is an acronym for a type of network architecture by the name of Asynchronous Transfer Mode. Data and messages that are transmitted are broken up into small, separate units of a fixed size and then transmitted at relatively high speeds. At the receiving machine, they are reassembled into the full message.

Technipages Explains ATM

Asynchronous Transfer Mode is a very fast way of transferring information from point A to point B by packing it into separate small cells of 53 bytes each, and then transmitting them at higher speeds than other types of transmission can reach – up to 622 Mbps.

One of the advantages of using these small cells is that via them, data like audio, video and computer files can be sent via the same channel, without one of them dominating the others. In a live transmission like a video call, this could mean the difference between choppy audio with a clear picture, and an evenly working service.

While the Internet or an Ethernet service uses variable package sizes that create cells at whatever size they are needed, ATM prioritises speed through smaller and equally-distributed packages.

The downside is that ATM doesn’t deal well with sudden spikes in network usage – too much sudden traffic can cause connection problems. This type of data connection is best used for video and VoIP connections.

Common Uses of ATM

• ATM is a cell-based transfer system ideal for communication purposes.
• ATM provides a data link layer service.
• Asynchronous Transfer Mode is a set of protocols used for computer networks.

Common Misuses of ATM

• ATM lets you transfer money.