ABSTRACT: This document replaces TA-NWT-001115.

A Broadband Integrated Services Digital Network (BISDN) Intercarrier Interface (B-ICI) is defined as an Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM)-based multi-service interface that connects public ATM switches of two different carriers or network providers. For example, a B-ICI provides connectivity between a Local Exchange Carrier (LEC) and an nterExchange Carrier (IEC).

The B-ICI is a multi-service interface and supports: Permanent Virtual Connection (PVC), Cell Relay Service (CRS), and Circuit Emulation Service (SMDS). A multi service B-ICI can be configured to support either one service or any combination of the services mentioned to meet the traffic needs.

This document provides the view of Telcordia on generic requirements for a multi-service B-ICI. This GR should be viewed as a supplement to the ATM Forum's (an international public body consisting of telecommunications industry segments representing carriers, network providers, manufactures, customer premises equipment, and users) B-ICI Specification. The ATM Forum specification focuses on use of B-ICI for intercarrier connectivity. The B-ICI generic requirements in this document will also apply when a B-ICI is used as an intracarrier interface to connect two ATM broadband switching systems belonging to the same network provider.