Smart Data Centers Feature Editorial

As the demand for internet traffic continues to grow, we need fast network infrastructures that are capable transporting voice, data, and video at the same time. Due to rapid expansion of real-time applications like audio/video streaming, Ethernet has been the incontrovertible technology for LANs. Many enterprises prefer to use Ethernet due to its versatility, plug-n-play feature and low cost.

Recently, Xelerated  is sampling its AX family of programmable Ethernet switches. Based on Xelerated’s (News - Alert) unique and wirespeed dataflow architecture, the AX family allows system vendors to unify switching and packet processing for fixed FTTx and mobile broadband access solutions. The AX switches cater to a new generation of high-density, high-capacity access systems, including point-to-point Ethernet, GE and 10GE, as well as point-to-multipoint EPON, GPON, 10GEPON and XGPON.

Its inherent programmability enables vendor customization and in-field feature enhancements – extending product lifetimes and increasing ROI. The AX family integrates Ethernet MAC, switching, programmable packet processing and traffic management into a single chip. The AX family enables unified processing of subscriber sessions and OAM functions – key components of a carrier grade data plane. System vendors can now build fiber access line cards and pizza boxes supporting advanced broadband services at 50-88 Gbps duplex using a single chip.

With high feature flexibility, the AX family supports Synchronous Ethernet and Packet Time Protocol (PTP-2008) for distribution of synchronization services. AX family fits to both Packet Transport Network (PTN) and mobile backhaul networks and is suitable for mobile and fixed FTTx access solutions.

Jag Bolaria, senior analyst at The Linley Group, said that to stay ahead of the curve, system vendors are looking for ways to differentiate their offerings while providing cost-effective and scalable subscriber session processing and Xelerated is addressing this core need with the sampling of its AX devices.

Johan Sandell (News - Alert), vice president and Head of Product Management at Xelerated, commented that instead of designing with fixed-function switch ASICs that becomes outdated, the AX programmable Ethernet switches enable customers to upgrade the lifetime of their access systems at a significantly reduced cost.