Glossary

AAL

see ATM adaptation layer.

AAUI

see Apple Attachment Unit Interface.

Access Line

A term used in frame relay to denote the local loop. Also called port connection.

Active Monitor

A station on a token ring network that oversee the ring and ensure that it is functioning properly. Also called a monitor station.

Address

A unique number assigned to a device to identify its location within a network. An address also can uniquely identify a network application process.

Addressing

A network concept that describes the process of assigning unique identification numbers (called addresses) to a networked device.

ADSL

see Asynchronous Digital Subscriber Line.

ADSL Lite

A slower ADSL in which downstream rates equal 1 Mbps and upstream rates equal 128 kbps. Intended primarily for homes. Also called G.lite.

Alignment Error

An Ethernet/802.3 frame that does not end on a "byte-boundary."

Always On/Dynamic ISDN AO/DI

An initiative from the Vendor's ISDN Association (VIA) in which a portion of the D channel, which is always active and constantly connected to the provider's switch, is used to transmit user packet data.

Ambient Noise

Electrical noise that is always present and is generated primarily by transmission equipment like transmitters, receivers, and repeaters. Ambient noise also can be induced by external sources such as fluorescent light transformers, electrical facilities, and heat. Ambient noise makes it difficult for receiving equipment to distinguish between incoming signals. Also called thermal noise.

Analog

Refers to any...