The data is in – we are a mobile society that continues to demand more and more from current wireless networks. Carriers are responding to this demand by investing in wireless backhaul solutions to provide the quality and efficiency necessary to deliver voice and data services. Transition Networks (News - Alert) is playing an important role in this growth, enabling carriers to support legacy investments while also planning for future expansions.

This white paper highlights that wireless networks have traditionally relied on Time-Division Multiplexing (TDM) services to connect base controllers and cell sites. 3G specifications do add native Ethernet interface support, yet 150,000 cell sites still exist in the U.S. with T1 TDM interfaces. With 3G services, the cell site bandwidth must be increased, although this potential is still modest.

In the future, T1 TDM will not disappear from these sites, yet wireless backhaul is necessary to support future services when making the move to 3G. One option is Transition Networks’ 4xT1 products with Ethernet, a hybrid approach that allows for a reduction in both CAPEX and OPEX (News - Alert) while also driving a rapid return on investment (ROI).

Carriers recognize TDM as a proven option for wireless backhaul as it delivers consistent reliability. Transition Networks’ 4xT1 and T1 solutions provide the performance capabilities necessary for wireless backhaul, while also allowing service providers to reduce expenses through remote management and troubleshooting. This cost reduction is realized in fewer truck rolls and increased reliability in the technology.

Specific benefits are delivered in the wireless backhaul supported technologies from Transition Networks. For one, the 4xT1 product is available with 4T1/E1 interfaces, as well as an optional 10/100Mbps Ethernet port. The solution also offers a RS232 data channel and fiber optic interface. The interface makes use of two fibers, one for transmission and one for reception.

The optional Ethernet port supports transport of up to 100 Mbps of Ethernet traffic, as well as T1 traffic across the fiber optic infrastructure. This capability ensures service providers can easily upgrade or utilize the wireless backhaul product in 3G scenarios where base stations have an Ethernet interface. 2G sites with TDM mobile backhaul traffic can also make use of this capability.

Transition Networks is consistently working with service providers to support their current install base of TDM circuits for wireless backhaul as this continues to be an integral part of the wireless infrastructure. The company also offers a lifetime warranty to ensure all knowledge and understanding of the importance of wireless backhaul and current investments ensure the delivering of a quality product that will minimize the risk of network downtime.


Susan J. Campbell is a contributing editor for TMCnet and has also written for eastbiz.com. To read more of Susan’s articles, please visit her columnist page.

Edited by Stefanie Mosca