Telecom Platform Deployment Featured Article

Looking to a future of 4G networks we see a whole world of new opportunities, but also a new level of network issues and challenges.

As we move toward next-generation communications -- specifically 40G to 100G -- what is the scope of the market for high-density frame-level integration of NEBS components?

That’s a recent question we posed to Jeff Hudgins, vice president of marketing at NEI, who explained that mobile broadband networks are failing to keep up with the explosion of bandwidth-intensive applications and the proliferation of wireless data-driven smart phones. 

“The rollout of 4G services promises to put even more strain on the network as these applications proliferate,” Hudgins told TMCnet. “By combining the latest ATCA multi-core packet processors, 40G switch devices, uplinks such as 40GbE and 100GbE, and the new 40G backplanes [such as 10G Kr], a fully integrated COTS-based ATCA frame can dramatically lower cost/bit and increase system density for 4G networks.”

And according to NEI, achieving NEBS certification for these high-density rack solutions is critical.

“NEBS Level 3 certification is the standard test for high-availability carrier class equipment,” Hudgins told TMCnet. “By undergoing rigorous testing and achieving NEBS certification. service providers and network equipment providers can be confident that the network equipment will maximize uptime and lifecycle control for their revenue-producing 4G services.”

What are some of the leading developers and equipment manufacturers in the space doing?

Stay tuned for Part 2 of our two-part series, where Hudgins discusses this and other issues related to next-generation networks.

This is part 1 of a two-part series on NEBS Level 3 certification and 4G.