Harris Stratex Networks has introduced what it said is a unique synchronisation feature for its Eclipse Packet Node high-speed IP wireless backhaul platform. This new feature enables operators to cross the ‘sync divide’ by providing a key component for the efficient migration of existing TDM infrastructure to an all-IP transport network.
The patent-pending Distributed Sync will be supported by a new plug-in network sync module for the Eclipse Packet Node intelligent nodal indoor unit. Distributed Sync offers a smooth synchronisation migration path for operators planning to evolve their transport network to all-IP, enabling them to introduce all-packet transport, while at the same time maintaining the comfort, reliability and security of their proven TDM-based synchronisation.
Distributed Sync complements standards-based solutions such as Synchronous Ethernet or IEEE 1588v2, and enables operators to delay moving to these IP-based schemes until after their network migration to IP transport is well progressed or complete. Distributed Sync offers a standard, primary reference clock traceable for 2.048/1.544 MHz clock output at the base station over a multi-hop, nodal backhaul network without having to use valuable payload capacity, even in an all-IP environment where no TDM transport capability is available.
“This new distributed timing capability will be of significant interest to operators who are looking for a solution to their network synchronisation challenges as they start to introduce Ethernet transport in the backhaul,” said Paul Kennard, Harris Stratex chief technology officer. “Unlike other solutions currently being considered, Distributed Sync will enable operators to take a low-risk evolutionary approach to network timing.”
Harris Stratex’ Eclipse Packet Node solution, featuring the new Distributed Sync feature, will be part of the multi-vendor Carrier Ethernet Interoperability test being conducted by the European Advanced Networking Test Centre (EANTC) in Berlin from Aug. 24 – Sept. 4, 2009. It also will be part of the Multi-Vendor Interoperability showcase at the IIR Carrier Ethernet World Congress in Berlin, Sept. 22–24, 2009.
Harris Stratex introduced the Eclipse Packet Node product earlier this year Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.