Crossbar switch module implementation for laboratory purpose

Current communication and internet networks are underpinned by the switching technologies that interconnect one network to the others in forms of switches and routers. Students' understanding on networks rely on how they convey the theories. However, understanding theories without touching the reality may exert spots in the overall knowledge. This paper reports the switch module design and implementation for student laboratory activities. The hardware and software designs are based on three stages clos switching architecture with modular 3x3 switches, controlled by an arduino microcontrollers. The designed modules can also be extended for batcher and bayan switch, and working on circuit and packet switching systems. The circuit has been successfully implemented by using 9 swicth modules of 3x3, each module contains 9 relays and one arduino. The test shows 94% successful connection while 6% blocking caused by busy destination, not busy switches.