Tellabs' new 6350 switch node is a next-generation SDH cross-connect system that enables operators to integrate data, such as high-speed Ethernet, into an existing SDH transport network. The 6350 system is currently under test by Telia and more than 30 sets have been ordered by network operators.
This is the third product in Tellabs' next-generation SDH portfolio, which also includes edge nodes and an end-to-end network management system.
The next-generation SDH solution integrates and manages multiple services with a single, cost-effective compact platform. This enables operators to provision new services quickly, while reducing operating costs by combining voice and data services in a single network.
The new node is physically compact and has high functional density, which Tellabs claims to be "the world's most dense 4/4/1 digital cross-connect".
Peter Viereck, VP and general manager of Tellabs Denmark, told LWE, "We are still really at the beginning of optical technology developments because we are only taking advantage of part of the optical spectrum in the fibre.
"Many people think that the future of communications is in radio and mobile but, after a distance of about 1km, the majority of communications are still carried over optical fibre.
"To develop the 6350 switch node we worked closely with customers. Tellabs is committed to delivering transport systems that converge voice and high-speed data networks."
The switch node is a scalable, high-density multiservice platform that handles voice traffic from 2Mbit/s, higher-speed leased-line services and high-speed Ethernet. It offers 138Gbit/s of capacity and interfaces for integration with Ethernet, SDH and DWDM.
When deployed in distributed network architectures, the 6350 can provide grooming with reduced back-hauling of network traffic.
The 6350 switch node is monitored and managed from the 6300 network manager, which provides carrier-class network and element management, including integration of Tellabs' SDH and DWDM network elements for wireless and long-distance customers.
Viereck added, "We believe that SDH.is still the dominant transport technology. Considering next-generation SDH, a lot of growth is expected — CAGR is forecast to be 62% between 2002 and 2006. This will be driven largely by new business opportunities with data."