Transmode adds MPLS-TP to packet-optical Ethernet Muxponders

Transmode says it has added MPLS-TP capabilities to its range of packet-optical Layer 2 Ethernet muxponders (EMXP) to meet the growing demands for increased service flexibility in Ethernet networks. The new capabilities provide operators with connection-oriented transport services over native Ethernet-based packet-optical networks.

MPLS-TP extends the widely deployed MPLS technology to transport Ethernet services using IETF standards compliant implementation by adding operations, administration, and maintenance (OAM) capabilities and improving the resiliency.

"As services continue to evolve and capacities continue to increase, transport networks need to become much more packet friendly, and the addition of MLPS-TP is an important step along that route," said Sten Nordell, Transmode's CTO.

"MPLS-TP helps to optimize work flows within network operators, which ensures simple and well-understood operational models and minimized operational costs," Nordell continued. "By combining MPLS-TP with network management-based control, we enable operators to configure MPLS-TP tunnels and services in a similar way to the paths and services that are used in ROADM-based optical networks. The approach also enables the management of the network across layers 0 to 2.5 to ensure optimal performance in scenarios such as multi-layer protection or restoration."

MPLS-TP is of great interest to network operators as it brings SDH/SONET-like management, protection and restoration, and OAM capabilities to Ethernet services at a low cost. It also has a familiar look and feel to network operators and fits well with existing processes and management.

Transmode's family of Ethernet Muxponders now includes MPLS-TP on a per service basis. This means that any port can support a mix of Layer 2 native Ethernet and MPLS-TP services, including the recently announced Metro Ethernet Forum (MEF) Carrier Ethernet 2.0 services. Furthermore, as MPLS-TP is implemented on the same hardware platform as Transmode's Ethernet services, it can be provided with the same low latency with zero jitter and superior SyncE performance.

For more information on packet-optical systems and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide.