Ixia, a global provider of converged IP network test solutions, today announced the introduction of a complete end-to-end testing solution for converged mobile backhaul networks – from the radio base station to the mobile packet core. Ixia now offers full testing solutions, including measurement for conformance validation, interoperability, precision and performance of devices and networks used for mobile backhaul, including IEEE 1588v2 and ITU-T Sync-E-based time synchronization standards.
The explosive growth in the number of wireless subscribers using data-intensive smart phones has resulted in unanticipated bandwidth demands on wireless service providers. Traditional time-division multiplexing (TDM) circuits connecting base stations to regional network controllers have become overloaded and are unable to keep up with the uptick in wireless traffic growth. Instead, service providers are now rolling out wireless backhaul services over Carrier Ethernet and MPLS using IP as a cost-effective solution to accommodate increased bandwidth loads.
TDM circuits provide ultra-high reliability, superior voice quality of service (QoS), and acutely accurate timing. Replacing TDM circuits with Ethernet technology requires attention to accurate timing – on the order of parts per million (ppm). The IEEE 1588v2 Precision Timing Protocol (PTP) and ITU-T Synchronous Ethernet (Sync-E) using Ethernet Synchronization Messaging Channel (ESMC) protocols address this issue.
"The hurdle facing most mobile backhaul network operators is reproducing the stability and reliability of TDM on Ethernet-based services," said Bob Mandeville, president and founder of Iometrix. "Full end-to-end compliance testing of timing protocols such as 1588v2 – demonstrating reliability on par with TDM – is key for equipment manufacturers helping carriers to make the transition."
The new IEEE 1588v2 and ITU-T Sync-E synchronization protocol support enables NEMs and service providers to ensure the functionality, scale, and performance of their timing protocol implementation, which are needed for wireless mobile backhaul. Ixia's solutions cover a full spectrum of Carrier Ethernet testing needs, including standardized Metro Ethernet Forum tests standardized such as MEF 9, 14, 21, 24, and 25.
"With the increase in data, video, and voice traffic from mobile devices and skyrocketing numbers of mobile broadband subscribers, mobile network operators are choosing IP and Ethernet to stay ahead of bandwidth demands. This effectively is unifying the wired and wireless services over a common technology infrastructure," said Joe Zeto, Ixia Senior Marketing Evangelist. "Ixia's converged IP platform and test solution allows our customers to completely validate their deployments and upgrades before going live, guaranteeing that their networks are properly provisioned and ready for prime-time."