Network Router

The network interface implemented by the SMAC is typically SpaceWire, though other protocols may be implemented. It is highly recommended to implement a network router (rather than just endpoints) in order to provide redundancy in the network and better choices of network topologies. Configurable routers also permit routing around failed nodes or links, enabling graceful degradation of the system over time.

The router ports on the SMAC should be connected to the processing element on the node (if any) and to connectors (usually through a backplane) permitting network connections to be made to other nodes. The robustness and fault tolerance of the network improves proportionally with the number of ports and potential network topologies that can be formed.

Data traversing the network interfaces shall be compliant to requirements specified in the Communication Specification.