The typical forms of voice and data transport for Carrier Ethernet Services are fiber and copper. While both provide connectivity in access networks, fiber is favoured for its prolific capacity, and copper is most widely used in environments with an existing telephone network . However, there are times when physical, geographical, legal, political or financial obstacles will stand squarely in the way of digging ditches, raising poles and pulling wire.
Overcoming the Obstacles
This is where microwave steps in. Even in the most challenging of circumstances, the combination of digital radio and Carrier Ethernet services can offer excellent flexibility, reliability, bandwidth and quality of service at a realistic price:
- Right-of-way: Because microwave uses radio spectrum, it can navigate physical barriers such as private property
- Service-aware traffic management allows you to differentiate voice and data packets by type, to avoid bottlenecks and smooth demand.
- Rural and third world: In these environments, often with poor legacy communications, microwave extends your connectivity reach
- Planning issues: Digital radio leapfrogs complex planning approvals that can slow the progress of fiber or copper installations in densely populated urban areas
- Temporary links: Digital radio is a great choice for temporary sporting or entertainment events
- Physical hurdles: Water, roads and challenging terrain can all complicate, or defeat, terrestrial installations
- Security concerns: The threat of human or environmental interference, especially the increasing theft of copper in some countries, makes traditional installations more risky and less advisable
Low Cost Gigabit Ethernet Services
Today’s digital radio technologies are capable of providing rapid connectivity and delivering Gigabit Ethernet services across any terrain, over significant distances. Recent technical developments also enable digital radio to function in lower frequency bands without line-of-sight. Plus, in many environments, this technology can provide the lowest cost per bit for Ethernet service transport.
Remote Site Connectivity
Here are just some of the ways you can use microwave technology to connect the remotest or most rural of locations:
- Broadband networks to support the conversion to digital TV
- Broadband networks to support DSL access in rural areas by overcoming the distance limitations of the DSLAM and broadband backbone
- Fiber backup routes to provide redundancy, diversity and network protection
- Network extensions to reach remote locations
So, whether you’re looking to extend service in areas where fiber and copper are not available, or need a high-performance back-up route to ensure failsafe communications, digital radio is a highly competitive choice with an impressive performance history.
For more information about Microwave Technologies for Carrier Ethernet Services, download this MEF document
About WireIE: We deliver carrier-grade Transparent Ethernet Solutions backed by SLAs. With a custom blend of fiber and digital to suit your circumstances, we transform, extend and support your communications networks in rural and remote areas. +1.905.882.4660 | www.wireie.com |info@wireie.com
