The Advanced Telecom Computing Architecture (AdvancedTCA, ATCA) is the first specification for scalable communication architectures (carrier-grade systems) implementing serial bus technology.

Using this, it is possible to control and process up to 2.5 terabits per second in a single shelf. Given the exploding volumes of worldwide data traffic, and the rapidly progressing integration of previously separate services, with fixed-line telecommu-nication on the one hand and mobile commu-nication networks and entertainment media on the other, such bandwidths are already an ab-solute must.

With AdvancedTCA and the associated AMC (Advanced Mezzanine Card) technology, the visionary idea of a whole telecommunications exchange in one "black box" is brought several giant steps closer.

This introduction to AdvancedTCA technology is intended as a practical guide and handbook. For the specialist, it is seen as a bridge between his or her own field and adjacent disciplines, maintaining a broad overview and offering a wider context for existing expert knowledge. At the same time, the concise and reader-friendly style also appeals to the "interested layman" looking to build up a general understanding of this future-oriented technology. This goal is facilitated by a review of history and developments in the field of telecommunication, which permits the reader to place the new technology and its benefits in true pers-pective within the overall picture of the genre.

Increasing performance runs hand in hand with increasing power losses. That applies for all electronic systems. Power loss generates heat, so we have included details of the theory and some practical designs for high-efficiency climate control components.

Configuration and the interdisciplinary utilisation of AdvancedTCA, MicroTCA and blade computers on the basis of modular AMC com-ponents are similarly important concerns of this publication. Particular attention is paid to avoiding unexpected pitfalls in practical implementation.