Cisco ASR 9000 Series routers were used as the network core, as they had been designed as the foundational baseline for next-generation Carrier Ethernet networks. They provide up to 400 Gbps per system and can be scaled up to 6.4 terabits (Tbps), helping ensure the fail-safe delivery of multifunctional applications.
The 100G services were supported by Cisco DWDM transponders tuned to 192.6 GHz (1556.55 nm). The transponders can operate at a distance well in excess of 2,000 kilometers (1,243 miles) without signal regeneration, and they feature high performance and port density, thus enabling 100G technologies in networks of any complexity.
All parameters of the DWDM network were configured automatically by the smart-management subsystem and optical channel power control tools integrated in the Cisco ONS 15454 MSTP platform. During the test the traffic was transferred at 100 Gbps without failure and degradation of existing 10 Gbps services, showing the investment protection on the installed network and existing fiber plant.
“Cisco offers innovative solutions for next-generation DWDM networks, opening new opportunities for service providers. The testing proved that Cisco products show high performance over DWDM network, as well as over ‘dark fiber’, providing versatility and flexibility in implementation. Besides, the 100G services are compatible with existing services, avoiding the necessity of guard bands. Thus, the operator can maximize the potentiality of network bandwidth,” said Sergey Semenov, CTO, North West Branch, MegaFon.
Recently, TelecomLead.com reported that Lumos Networks, a fiber-based service provider, has completed a technology test of Cisco’s 100G coherent DWDM solution. Lumos Networks can meet customer demand for high-capacity bandwidth on its 10G fiber plant by deploying 100G line cards in its current Cisco ONS 15454 platforms.
