Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) or Asynchronous Data Transfer refers to the high-speed transfer of data in packets of a fixed size to members of a computer network, according to TechTerms.
Data Packets
According to TechTerms, ATM technology allows the transmission of all forms of media data in packets that consist of small 53-byte packets. The small packets can travel quickly over a single connection without consuming too much bandwidth.
Multiple Switches
An ATM circuit allows the data packets to travel through multiple switches during the connection, according to Telecom Dictionary. Large telecommunication companies use ATM to connect different parts of their network.
Internet Service Providers
Internet service providers (ISPs) benefit from ATM technology because it allows them to limit bandwidth size to their customers. Bandwidth determines the rate or speed of data transmission. ATM actually boosts the efficiency of the ISP connection by increasing its overall speed, according to TechTerms.
Tags: Asynchronous Data, Asynchronous Data Transfer, data packets, Data Transfer, packets travel