TM SUMMARY
Chairman: Manfred Gindel
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The aim of ETSI TM is to standardize the functionality and performance of transport networks and their elements. Transport networks include everything necessary to provide digital paths between end users and switching nodes. This includes: |
- optical fibre cables and components
- line systems and multiplexers
- cross connection equipment
- end to end performance aspects, including network protection
- fixed radio systems
- digital subscriber line systems for metallic cables
Network aspects are standardized by ETSI TISPAN
Main work areas
The physical aspects of optical fibre cables are standardized by CENELEC,
however, TM works in close co-operation with them and regularly provides
specifications for optical cables and components to be used in various
telecommunications environments. This includes WDM (Wavelength Division
Multiplexing) components which allow multiple transmission systems to co-exist
on a single fibre pair (e.g. in a Passive Optical Network - PON). TM has also
begun to study the subject of "All Optical Networks", which considers
a future where, not only will cables carry optical signals but the switching
will also be done optically (as opposed to electronically).
TM is developing a generic standard covering the functionality of equipment in
the transport network (ETS 300 417), which caters for both PDH and SDH
networks (Plesiochronous Digital Hierarchy and Synchronous Digital Hierarchy).
The standard provides a design methodology based on atomic functions which can
be integrated by manufacturers to build equipment according to the needs of
their customers. The bulk of the work related to requirements has been completed
and the documents related to conformance testing are now being written. Similar
work has commenced on a standard for ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) transport
network equipment.
It is often necessary, for economic reasons related to geography, to use
microwave systems as part of the transport network (fixed radio systems).
Numerous TM standards exist for Point-to-Point (P-P) systems to be used for a
variety of applications in the core network. Standards are also being developed
for Point-to-Multipoint (P-MP) systems in the access network, to allow network
operators to provide services without the need to provide conventional cables.
As well as defining the architecture for the access network and collaborating in
the standardization of network interfaces (e.g. for Integrated Subscribers
Digital Network (ISDN) and Broadband ISDN (BISDN)), TM is producing
specifications for Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) systems for metallic cables.
These include Asymmetric DSL (ADSL), High-speed DSL (HDSL), Symmetrical single
pair DSL (SDSL) and Very high-speed DSL (VDSL).
These systems allow the transport of high bit rate services (e.g. Video, Internet) over copper cables to a network node which is part of a fibre access network. This is necessary to bridge the gap until fibre to the home becomes an economic possibility for network operators.
Other interesting information sources
Last updated: 2010-03-01 14:19:51