WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) is being touted as the next-gen wireless technology for Last-Mile broadband connectivity, with an increasing number of service launches and reported trials around the globe. However, a major challenge in deploying the IP-based technology lies in the backhaul section of the network, where available infrastructure remains primarily PDH and SDH/SONET-based. Without appropriate backhaul equipment to seamlessly connect the WiMAX base stations with ASN (access service network) gateways, service operators and network access providers (NAPs) risk service rollout delays, putting a strain on their profitability.
RAD’s RICi demarcation devices and Egate aggregators help providers quickly roll out new WiMAX services, while keeping their TCO (total cost of ownership) in check by leveraging existing backhaul connections. As shown in Figure 1, the RICi NTUs (network termination units) can be deployed in point-to-point topology at the WiMAX base station POP (point of presence) and the central office, transparently delivering Ethernet traffic over SDH/SONET backbones via clear-channel E3/T3 access links, with a seamless hand-off over Gigabit Ethernet to the ASN GW. Alternatively, the RICi NTUs (network termination units) can work opposite the Egate-100 aggregation device to transport WiMAX base station traffic over bonded E1/T1, with bundled access rates of up to 32 Mbps. Employing Ethernet over NG-PDH protocols, these devices also increase bandwidth capacity by reducing latency and optimizing line utilization and throughput.
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Features
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Benefits
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Ethernet bridging over E1/T1 or E3/T3
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Lower CapEx and Opex and quick activation of NGN services
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Standard encapsulation and bonding over PDH (GFP, VCAT and LCAS)
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Bandwidth-on-demand flexibility with dynamic allocation for higher network availability; third-party interoperability
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Granular provisioning with advanced traffic management and per-VLAN rate limitation
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Efficient use of network resources; customized service offering with SLA assurance
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Link protection and fault propagation
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Carrier-class service resiliency
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Complete Ethernet OAM suite with performance monitoring, extended statistics and reporting
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End-to-end visibility and service control over diverse maintenance domains
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MEF-9 and MEF-14 certified for EPL & EVPL services
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Improved service reliability with standardized attributes
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Member of the EtherAccess® product portfolio
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Consistent user experience over any access
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Providing REAL (Reliable, Economical, Accountable, and Limitless) Carrier Ethernet access, the RICi and Egate’s value proposition extends far beyond simple Ethernet to TDM conversion. Their enhanced capabilities include bandwidth management and differentiated prioritization, as well as comprehensive Ethernet OAM functionalities for proactive SLA (service level agreement) monitoring and easy fault localization – right off the WiMAX base station.
