SDH in the access network
S. Christou, D. Austen · Institution of Engineering and Technology eBooks · 2004
This chapter describes how SDH technology is used to support the delivery of a broad portfolio of products and services. Experience from the BT network is used to describe and discuss the technology's generic functionality, deployment and potential. As stated earlier in this chapter. BT has. and continues to evolve, SDH transmission equipment in the core network. At the same time, deployment of access SDH (stage 1) equipment is well under way both in access and the outer core; discussions as to how and when to introduce the stage 2 component of access SDH are ongoing. An investigation is under way to explore the options open for both core and access technologies to understand how best to meet the needs of both customers (for interface flexibility and cost) and operator networks (primarily for reducing cost and manag ing capacity) with an agreed portfolio of equipment. This will undoubtedly involve deployment of Access SDH equipment in parts of the core network and within some customer segments, whereas other segments will require and could only be served by deployment of core SDH equipment. Resolution of this area is critical and proposals should be forthcoming in the very near future, but it is clear that there is a role for both technology options within the UK network.