 a shaky position. SUMMARY In this chapter, we reviewed Intel's IXA architecture of network processors and looked more specif- ically at its IXP1200, 2400, and 2800 models. We also provided some information on its more recent 2850 chip, which integrates sophisticated security functions. We identified their underlying charac- teristics and looked at the advantages they offer as well as some of the few associated inconveniences for a systems designer. We finally described a few typical applications using various configurations implemented along a common architectural theme that is characteristic of this family of NPUs. Intel has a powerful and wide family of network processors. Combining these processors with an excep- tional array of software tools and third-party development platforms will most likely further consol- idate Intel's leading position in this market. REFERENCES Extensive literature with detailed product datasheets, technology white papers, and application notes, along with links to other related Intel communications and networking sites, can be found at Intel's network processing web site at www.intel.com/design/network/ixa.htm. Information a bout the building blocks needed in networking applications around Intel's offerings can be found at the web site http://developer.intel.com/design/network. Intel's technical literature center can be found at http://developer.intel.com/design/litcentr/ Downloaded from Digital Engineering Library @ McGraw-Hill (www.digitalengineeringlibrary.com) Copyright © 2004 The McGraw-Hill Companies. All rights reserved. Any use is subject to the Terms of Use as given at the website. Source: NETWORK PROCESSORS CHAPTER 6 AMCC nPTM FAMILY OF NETWORK PROCESSORS Applied Micro Circuits Corporation (AMCC) has become one of the leaders in the field of network processing. Its acquisition of a few companies with state-of-the-art technology and products in the network processing unit (NPU) and switch fabric fields, as well as the consequent breadth of its offer- ings, has positioned AM