Abstract: This document presents the access multiplexer (AM) developed in MUSE WPB1. The AM is an essential element of the access network. This document emphasizes three innovative elements studied, implemented and integrated in the AM. The first innovation is the AM operation in IP forwarding mode (also called IP aware bridging). Two enhancements, the TCP accelerator and the Time-Shifted TV, then show how the AM can offer more and better services. The stand-alone tests prove that they operate as expected and they can be integrated with the other access network elements.
The AM further evolution is also being prepared. A generic scheduler is being designed to fit the requirements of next generation AM schedulers. The extended service offer requires developing new HW and SW elements. The concept of a service plane in the AM is being introduced. These elements will be further developed and integrated in the second phase of MUSE.