RAD’s ACE-3600 Multiservice Aggregation Unit Reduces Costs of 3G HSDPA Backhaul

RAD Data Communications has announced the release of its ACE-3600 multiservice aggregation unit, which is specifically designed to accommodate the rapid expansion in mobile backhaul traffic resulting from the widespread deployment of 3G services.

“The evolution to 3G introduces a new range of bandwidth-intensive mobile services,” explains Robert Bell, Senior Product Line Manager at RAD Data Communications. “To succeed in this demanding environment, mobile operators face the challenge of utilizing the most efficient backhaul technology that will yield the most cost-effective solutions,” Bell continues. “This is particularly critical with the launch of HSDPA services, which require network expansions to support the increased capacity that they require,” he notes. “If HSDPA were to be backhauled over expensive E1/T1 lines, the profitability of the service would be at risk,” he states. “Pseudowire-based backhaul is clearly the most efficient alternative available.”

Using ATM pseudowire emulation edge-to-edge (PWE3) technology, the ACE-3600 multiservice aggregation unit provides connectivity between the Node B and the RNC using affordable Ethernet-based next generation services. The device supports aggregation of multiple STM-1/OC-3 links over Gigabit Ethernet using pseudowire technology, ensuring the most economical allocation of backhauling resources and the delivery of multiple 3G services. Traffic aggregation reduces both capital (Capex) and operating expenses (Opex) by reducing the number of links in the network and using lower priced, higher speed ports in the network core. The advanced shaping and scheduling capabilities of the ACE-3600, moreover, permit operators to implement overbooking strategies, enabling them to optimize network utilization, conserve existing resources and reduce the number of leased services required to support their networks.

The ACE-3600 multiservice aggregation unit is now being deployed by a Tier-1 international mobile operator.