System and method regarding early packet discard (EPD) and partial packet discard (PPD)
 The present invention pertains to a system for sending ATM cells. The system comprises an ATM network along which ATM cells travel. The system comprises source nodes connected to the ATM network which produce packets having cells and transmit the cells on the ATM network. The system comprises I input switches connected to the ATM network, where I is greater than or equal to 1 and is an integer, which receive cells from the ATM network transmitted by the source node. The system comprises M intermediate switches connected to the ATM network, where M is greater than or equal to 1, which receive signals from the ATM network transmitted by at least one input switch. The intermediate switch discards cells only of a same packet when a predetermined event occurs so the discarded cells are not transmitted by the intermediate switch. The system comprises destination nodes connected to the ATM network which receive non-discarded ATM cells from the intermediate switch. The present invention pertains to a method for sending ATM cells. The method comprises the steps of receiving cells of ATM packets at an intermediate switch from an ATM network that have been transmitted by an input switch. Next there is the step of discarding only cells of the same ATM packet from the intermediate switch. Then there is the step of receiving non-discarded cells at a destination node from the ATM network that have been transmitted from the intermediate switch. 
Marconi Communications, Inc.
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Jay John E.
Adams Drake, Jr.