G.8264

ITU-T standard G.8264 is one of the organization’s recommendations defining various aspects of Synchronous Ethernet (Sync-E). As packet-switched networks (PSNs) are asynchronous by nature, they introduce inaccuracies such as packet delay variation (PDV) and packet loss. As a result, synchronization – a crucial factor in cellular networks – has become the biggest challenge in the migration to packet-switched networks. Synchronous Ethernet uses the Ethernet physical layer to accurately distribute frequency with clock mechanisms similar to those of SDH/SONET. As Sync-E is a link-by-link frequency distribution scheme, it requires the entire clock distribution path (i.e. all the network nodes involved) to be Sync-E compliant. G.8264 specifies the Synchronization Status Message (SSM) protocol and formats for Synchronous Ethernet to ensure interoperability between Sync-E equipment used for frequency transfer.

RAD’s G.8264 Solutions

RAD’s ACE-3220 cell-site gateway is designed with standard G.8264 capabilities, to support mobile operators and transport providers in their migration to all-IP RANs (radio access networks). Featuring a full range of highly accurate, standard synchronization options, the ACE-3220 allows operators to transition their backhaul networks to packet technology by minimizing the risk of inaccuracies, such as packet delay, delay variation and packet loss. Synch-E functionality is also incorporated in RAD’s ETX Carrier Ethernet demarcation devices.