A new line card for the GigaMux 1600 and 3200 optical transport platforms of Sorrento Networks will enable carriers to combine 10 1gbps Ethernet links into a 10gbps Ethernet link, helping those network operators to better deal with uncertainty around future bandwidth requirements.
"By adding a new layer of intelligence to WDM technology, we are providing our customers with end-to-end Gigabit Ethernet and taking them to the next level in bandwidth capacity in the most cost-conscious and efficient way possible," said Jim Nevelle, CEO of Sorrento Networks.
With the increase in corporate network traffic, storage area networks, consumer broadband and, increasingly, mobile backhaul, the demand for more bandwidth continues to grow exponentially. Wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM) allows service providers and enterprises to accommodate this bandwidth growth and avoid costly new fiber build-outs, according to the company.
Sorrento's new OET line card offers built-in layer 2 controls that can be switched on to enable customers to control Ethernet traffic and offer more capabilities in their infrastructure. Additionally, this line card allows users to set up a 10G "superstructure" of existing ring optical systems that dramatically increases bandwidth capacity and gives them the ability to support additional data services. This means service providers and enterprises can offer Ethernet services to their customers in a matter of days versus months.
"The OET line card enables Sorrento's service provider and enterprise customers to turn on new Ethernet services quickly, which means a shorter time to Ethernet transport and/or billable revenue," said Michael Howard, principal analyst and co-founder, Infonetics Research. "This move into a pragmatic and efficient Ethernet transport over WDM represents a strategic move for Sorrento to address a fast-growing market need."
Transporting multiple Ethernet circuits over multiple node WDM systems has historically required an optical multiplexer coupled with a layer 2 switch. This architecture can be costly due to the amount of equipment involved and the length of time to market. Sorrento's OET line card collapses multiple pieces of equipment into one WDM line card that offers multiplexing, electrical ROADM-like functionality, switching and protection, thereby greatly reducing capital expenditures and improving efficiency for all Ethernet transport applications.
