A multi-service platform system (200) having a VXS backplane (204)
includes a VXS payload module (202) coupled to the VXS backplane, a first
switched fabric enabled mezzanine card (212) coupled to the VXS payload
module, and a second switched fabric enabled mezzanine card (213) coupled
to the VXS payload module. VXS payload module also includes a switching element
(215) communicatively interposed between the first and second switched fabric
enabled mezzanine card and the switching element, wherein the first and second
switched fabric enabled mezzanine card are coupled to directly communicate with
a switched fabric (206, 207) via the switching element.