Method and apparatus for bypassing a payload node

A rear transition module coupled to transmit a DSX signal to a payload node via a backplane, the rear transition module comprising:

• a DSX signal interface coupled to receive the DSX signal;
• a protection bus interface, wherein the protection bus interface is coupled to a secondary rear transition module via a protection bus, wherein the protection bus is outside the backplane;
• a relay module coupled to switch the DSX signal from the payload node to the secondary rear transition module for processing by a secondary payload node;
• and
• a control module, wherein the control module operates to switch the relay module such that the DSX interface is coupled to the protection bus interface upon failure of the payload node and receipt of a bypass signal from the secondary rear transition module, and wherein the control module is independently controlled by the secondary rear transition module.

A method, comprising:

• a rear transition module receiving a DSX signal, wherein the rear transition module passes the DSX signal to a payload node through a backplane;
• a secondary rear transition module independently detecting failure of the payload node;
• and
• the secondary rear transition module independently shunting the DSX signal to a protection bus through the rear transition module such that the DSX signal is communicated to the secondary rear transition module for processing by a secondary payload node, wherein the protection bus is outside the backplane, and wherein the secondary rear transition module independently controls shunting of the DSX signal through the rear transition module to the secondary rear transition module.