The ZL30228 is a multi-rate inverse multiplexing for ATM (IMA) and transmission convergence (TC) devices that process ATM traffic for transmission over xDSL lines. The ZL30228 integrates features that optimize flexibility and easy implementation of broadband access equipment. A mixed-mode configuration allows links not assigned to an IMA group be used in TC mode. The ZL30228 can be configured to operate in different modes to facilitate the implementation of the IMA function at both CPE and Central Office sites. The ZL30228 can also be interfaced with major vendor chip sets that implement G.SHDSL to apply IMA over SHDSL lines. The ZL30228 devices are compliant with ATM Forum IMA specifications (Versions 1.1, 1.0 & UNI) for controlling IMA groups of up to 16 trunks on a single chip.