Linux-based OpenArchitect® 3 runs on the embedded Freescale MPC8270VR, providing a comprehensive package for the management of Layer 2 and Layer 3 packet switching. VLAN management and Layer 2-7 packet classification are also included with a user-friendly interface. OpenArchitect may be used with a variety of IP routing protocols.

Up to 8 switch egress ports are provided, depending on chassis/switch configuration, and one port is dedicated to the switch-to-switch connection in redundant configurations. For additional management connections, a USB, RS-232 serial, and three out-of-band 10/100 Ethernet ports are available for local configuration.

Four standards-based PMC/PTMC slots allow for significant expansion of possible applications. Each slot may host additional memory, I/O, processing or packet-processing capability. Accessories for the ZX6000 include two and four-port breakout cards for Gigabit Ethernet, out-of-band Ethernet, and RS-232 connections.

Two ZX6000 AdvancedTCA® switches can be used in a standard ATCA chassis to implement a fully redundant dual star network architecture over the base and fabric interface. Each payload slot has two Base Interface connections, one to each switch. With the OpenArchitect High Availability (HA) software suite, the chassis can respond and automatically correct any single point of failure.