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Instant access to PMC technology papers pertaining to Storage, Optical and Mobile Networks.
Latest White Paper
Enabling OTN Switching over Packet/Cell Fabrics [published: Jan 2012]
OTN switching delivers a cost-effective, scalable, low-latency switching layer to address the massive bandwidth scaling required to deal with packet traffic growth. Furthermore, it delivers this scale in such a way that it can transparently transport legacy services such as TDM concurrent with the packet traffic
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Storage
Controller Based Encryption
Abstract: The need for protection of sensitive personal information or trade secrets is becoming crucial in safeguarding the interests of any organization. This paper provides an insight in tightening data security for data at rest using methods of encryption and specifically encryption using external array controller based technologies. The purpose of this paper is to educate readers on different configurations of external array controller based encryption and different issues and merits of each. This paper is written for array and server architects, and R&D managers looking to learn more about methods to increase data security and applications of controller based encryption. [published: June 2008]Evolution of SAS
Abstract: SAS is evolving. SAS, which has replaced cabled parallel SCSI as the interconnect technology of choice, provides high bandwidth and high data throughput and is compatible with existing SATA topologies. This paper provides an overview of SAS and discusses how second generation SAS controllers, expanders and port multiplexers can be optimized to ensure better bandwidth utilization, easier management and network robustness. [published: April 2007]Managing Access Control Through SAS Zoning
Abstract: Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) is gaining popularity in small storage area network (SAN) server environments. SAS has gained significant interest as a mechanism for connecting large groups of targets in small SAN or in cluster or blade server environments and allowing these servers to share resources across their targets. With SAS's rise in popularity comes the need to segregate and manage device traffic by zones in a similar fashion to what is already done in larger Fibre Channel networks or Ethernet using virtual LANs. This paper discusses how SAS zoning, as proposed to the T10 Technical Committee of the INCITS SAS 2 working group, can meet these zoning and access control needs. SAS zoning provides functionality for traffic segregation, resource flexibility, controlled resource sharing, topology control, and protection against unauthorized access. This paper includes an overview of SAS zoning operation and implementation, and a discussion of how zoning enables the management of SAS-based blade servers, which support both enterprise-class applications with SAS HDDs and near-line/fixed content storage requirements with SATA HDDs. [published: September 2005]Storage Area Network Architectures
Abstract: This PMC-Sierra white paper provides an architectural overview of storage technology, SAN switches and Storage Elements. The systems discussed are partitioned into the functional building blocks needed to address individual functional requirements of the systems. Finally the paper explores the technology trends in the SAN industry and their evolution with the changing trend in IC technology and SAN protocols. [published: April 2003] -
Optical
Swizzle FEC for 40G and 100G Optical Transmission
Abstract: The introduction of OTU3 at 40G and OTU4 at 100G has put a great deal of pressure on SNR budgets. A strong FEC is the most economical way of regaining some of the link budget. The "Swizzle" Spiral Interleaved Turbo Forward Error Correction code is PMC-Sierra's third-generation FEC designed to meet the needs of 40G and 100G DWDM systems. It offers 9.45dB of net coding gain with the standard 6.7% OTN overhead, 1.35dB better than the second-generation FECs captured in G.975.1 [published: July 2011]A Tutorial on ITU-T G.709 Optical Transport Networks (OTN)
Abstract: The SONET/SDH network that has grown to be the backbone of most of the modern telecommunications network was originally designed for optical interfaces that used a single wavelength per fiber. As optical component technology has advanced, it has become more economical to transmit multiple SONET/SDH signals over the same fiber using wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) rather than going to a higher rate SONET/SDH signal. Based on experience with the SONET/SDH networks, the ITU-T defined a transport network that was optimized for cost-effective transparent transport of a variety of client signals over WDM networks. The optical transport network (OTN) architecture is specified in ITU-T Rec. G.872 and the frame format and payload mappings are specified in G.709.
This white paper provides a tutorial overview of OTN, with primary emphasis on ITU-T G.709. The white paper also discusses various constraints that influenced the development of G.709, its current status in the network, and some factors that will affect its future. [published: June 2011]Enabling OTN Convergence [published: May 2011] Using GPON in Mobile Backhaul Networks
Abstract: This document describes how GPON technology addresses the need for increased bandwidth, scalability and reliability in mobile backhaul networks while providing lower capital and operation expenses, backwards compatibility, and an easy migration path to an all-IP network. [published: January 2011]Transporting Sub-ODU1 Rate Signals in the OTN [published: Sep 2009] Requirements for Next Generation Rate-Agile SERDES
Abstract: The existing and emerging requirements for next generation rate-agile Serializer/De-serializer (SERDES) designs are forcing system designers to re-examine their SERDES vendors' designs. This document outlines and discusses these requirements that system designers should consider when choosing a SERDES vendor. [published: July 2009]Introduction to IEEE 802.3av 10Gbit/s Ethernet Passive Optical Networks (10G EPON) [published: January 2009] ATCA Design Considerations for Telecommunication Platforms
Abstract: This white paper reviews the Advanced Telecommunications Computing Architecture (AdvancedTCA or ATCA) standard and the benefits that it delivers to Original Equipment Manufactures (OEMs) and Carriers. ATCA addresses the market need for cost optimization at the system and infrastructure levels by enabling an ecosystem of carrier-grade off-the shelf chassis, I/O and processing blades. This paper describes some of the hardware requirements like backplane capacities and equipment protection mechanisms. Moreover, readers will learn how PMC-Sierra’s PM8310 TEMUX 336 enables OEMs to address these hardware requirements effectively. [published: August 2008]10G EPON Brings Advantages to the Fiber Access Network
Abstract: As the deployment of Fiber to the Home (FTTH) technologies in the access network accelerates, vendors and technology innovators are looking ahead to solve next-generation applications' bandwidth requirements. These applications, such as high-definition IPTV delivery and multimedia distribution systems, will demand far greater bandwidth than current broadband access technologies provide. One attractive new option is 10 Gigabit Ethernet Passive Optical Network (10G EPON) technology. It offers a ten-fold leap in bandwidth to 10 gigabits per second in the broadband access network over fiber while providing core protocol compatibility with current 1G EPON solutions.
The 10G EPON draft specification, IEEE 802.3av, released in late 2007, is currently in final review with ratification expected in mid-2009. This standard builds on compatibility with the previous EPON standard. Since the standard focuses narrowly on changes to the PHY layer and the technical aspects of the specification are not expected to change during the approval process, vendors can move forward confidently using the current specification as a basis for product development. It is expected that the industry will be ready and products will be mature enough for widespread deployments based on 10G EPON to occur by 2010. [published: June 2008]The Importance of Dynamic Bandwidth Allocation in GPON Networks
Abstract: This article describes Bandwidth Allocation in the PON network and highlights the advantages of Dynamic Bandwidth Allocation (DBA). A well-defined DBA algorithm can significantly improve network performance, provide a means of flexibly tailoring network responsiveness and enable a service provider to generate more revenue from their FTTH networks without boosting raw bandwidth by increasing the percentage of acceptable oversubscription. [published: Feb 2008]Implementing Transmultiplexing for SONET/SDH MSPPs
Abstract: This white paper discusses the fundamental concept of transmultiplexing and its importance for carriers in North America as T1 services continue to witness growth, particularly in wireless backhaul applications. With a large installed base of T1/DS3 networks in North America, transmultiplexing provides a solution that bridges the legacy PDH world with today's SONET/SDH networks.
The paper provides a survey of the transmultiplexing (transmux) functionality from a network, equipment and silicon perspective. It outlines the key role this function plays in next generation networks in North America, and how the requirement for supporting transmux drives carrier equipment and silicon developments. The paper illustrates how MSPP vendors can implement highly scalable ported and portless transmux solutions with PMC-Sierra's PM8318 TEMAP 168, which integrates high-density T1/E1 framing, bi-directional performance monitoring and report messaging. [published: March 2007]Introduction to Broadband Passive Optical Networks
Abstract: Providing the triple play services of voice, video, and high-speed data access is an important way for carriers to increase their revenue and compete with other access providers such as the CATV operators. For both telephone network providers and CATV providers, the most flexible and future-proof medium for providing triple play services is fiber, with its virtually unlimited bandwidth availability. Since providing a direct optical connection between the CO and each subscriber is cost prohibitive, most optical access systems share a passive optical network (PON) among multiple subscribers. PON decreases the real estate of the CO, the labor cost involved in fiber access deployment, and length of fiber plant to maintain. This white paper provides some background on fiber-based broadband access technologies and a tutorial overview of the two most popular very high-speed PON access network standards: the ITU-T G.984 series Gigabit PON (GPON) and IEEE 802.3ah Ethernet PON (EPON) standards. GPON has been selected by most North America and European telephone network providers, while EPON is currently being mass deployed by some major Asian telephone network providers.[published: October 2006]ROADMs and the Evolution of the Metro Optical Core
Abstract: This white paper provides a technical review of the recent developments in Reconfigurable Optical Add/Drop Multiplexer (ROADM) architectures that can be exploited to deploy flexible, scalable and reliable metropolitan area networks with a low total cost of ownership. Specifically, it discusses the integration of some or all of the sub-wavelength grooming functionality typically found in a Multi-Service Provisioning Platform (MSPP) into a ROADM, and presents the major architectural alternatives for realizing this solution, including associated design considerations. [published: September 2006]EPON Ushers In a New Generation of Bandwidth-Intensive Applications
Abstract: Based on fiber-optics, EPON technology offers the speeds of Gigabit Ethernet, making highdefinition video and data/voice/video lines not only possible but practical. This white paper describes how EPON works.[published: May 2006]GPON FTTH Market and Technology Overview
Abstract: Gigabit PON is an attractive FTTH broadband access network technology because it meets the needs of carriers world-wide. GE-PON has successfully demonstrated this approach and is being deployed in high volume in Asia, while the GPON standard will provide similar capabilities for carriers in North America. It includes all of the ingredients for market success - a consumer base that is eager to adopt a much faster and more comprehensive set of high-speed services, a set of carriers ready to offer those services and an infrastructure of silicon, and system vendors that are capable of developing and deploying gigabit PON technology. PMC-Sierra is leveraging its experience in GE-PON based gigabit FTTH to also bring GPON-based products to the market. [published: May 2006]Ethernet in the First Mile: New Ethernet Capabilities Enable Low-cost Triple-Play Services
Abstract: This paper explores one of two technological solutions needed to solve the current challenge of how best to deploy high-volume, high-bandwidth access to the home and premises. The evolution of Ethernet and the adoption of the IEEE 802.3ah Ethernet in the First Mile standard and the ITU-T G.984 GPON standard have made Ethernet the preferred protocol for FTTH (Fibre to the Home) deployment. Ethernet's high performance and low cost make it ideal for the access network. Ethernet also provides a guarantee for delivery of services (classification, QoS, and DBA), which is especially critical in triple play. [published: May 2006]Supporting VoIP over Ethernet over SONET/SDH (EOS)
Abstract: This paper examines the QoS properties of EoS and the QoS requirements for VoIP. It examines the various network architectures for transporting VoIP in Residential and Enterprise environment. It then demonstrates that EoS easily meets the QoS requirements of VoIP and can be used in both residential and enterprise applications to provide superior VoIP quality. [published: February 2006]Ethernet Transport over PDH Networks with Virtual Concatenation
Abstract: Virtual concatenation and LCAS were originally defined for SONET/SDH signals and G.709 OTN signals. Asynchronous hierarchy (DSn) and PDH signals lacked the overhead bandwidth required for the virtual concatenation and LCAS overhead channel. DSn and PDH signals are still leased by carriers as the means of accessing their enterprise customers through another carrier's network. Aside from the ubiquitous availability of DSn/PDH connectivity, there are regulatory conditions in the United States that give DSn connectivity a price advantage for this application. When the virtual concatenation of DSn and PDH signals was requested by multiple carriers, modified signal frame formats were defined to create the required overhead channel. These frame formats are defined in new ITU-T Recommendation G.7043, and the topic of this white paper. This white paper also covers the mapping of GFP payloads into these signals, as defined in new ITU-T Recommendation G.8040. [published: November 2005]Ethernet over Transport White Paper
Abstract: A convergence of technology and applications has created an increased desire for Ethernet WAN connectivity. In many ways, Ethernet is an obvious technology choice. It simplifies enterprise network administration, and provides a ubiquitous, inexpensive infrastructure of existing Ethernet interfaces on enterprise equipment. The development of VCAT and GFP allows efficient transport of Ethernet frames through SONET/SDH networks. In addition, Ethernet bridge and router technology requires less provisioning and administration than technologies such as ATM. As some carriers begin a migration to using packet switching technology such as MPLS in their core networks rather than traditional circuit switching, Ethernet again looks like an excellent fit as an access technology.
This white paper describes how standards are developing to provide Ethernet WAN connectivity and primarily focuses on the set of new standards for Ethernet transport over public networks developed by ITU-T Study Group 15 (SG15). It discusses the Ethernet services that are being considered over public WANs; transport network models that can be used to support Ethernet services; Ethernet-based user network interfaces (UNIs) and network-to-network interfaces (NNIs) required for transport network equipment to carry Ethernet services; Operations and Maintenance (OAM) capabilities; and protection and restoration technologies that can be used to guarantee carrier-grade service reliability for Ethernet WAN services. [published: July 2005]An Introduction to Transport Networks for Telecommunications
Abstract: This white paper provides a general introduction to telecommunications transport networks, which are the backbone of the modern telephone and Internet infrastructure. The paper examines them in the context of geographical classification, and functional layer classification. The paper includes a brief look at broadband access technologies, since current transport network capacity will only grow substantially if subscribers are able to access the network for higher bandwidth services. A thorough list of the standards bodies relevant to transport networks is also provided. [published: July 2005]Operations and Maintenance Function for Ethernet Networks
Abstract: Ethernet was originally designed as a LAN protocol for use in enterprise and home networking. Among the main goals of Ethernet were simplicity, plug and play functionality and lower CAPEX and OPEX cost. Due to the success of Ethernet in the LAN, network operators and carriers are interested in using it in the WAN/MAN to realize similar cost reductions. However, to be used in carrier-class networks, Ethernet requires additional functionality. Among the main functions required are Operations and Maintenance (OAM).
OAM refers to capabilities of detection, notification, verification and localization of failures, including hard failures (such as link cut) detected by the PHY layer and soft failures (such as memory corruption of a bridge) that cannot be detected by the PHY layer. OAM functionality is essential for carriers to reduce OPEX and to keep their service level agreements (SLA).
This PMC-Sierra white paper outlines the various standards that have been developed for Ethernet OAM, as well as ongoing efforts to bring OAM functionality to Ethernet networks in order to make Ethernet a viable option for WAN/MAN deployment. [published: July 2005]Resilient Packet Ring (RPR) Technology
Abstract: The two basic motivations behind RPR are: 1) more reliable data communications and 2) extending life of the current telecommunications networks. On the data communications side, there was a desire for a broadband MAN/WAN protocol that used rings to provide higher reliability. On the telecommunications side, there was a desire to extend the concept of a TDM add/drop multiplexer to the packet world. [published: May 2005]In-Service T1/E1 Performance Monitoring
Abstract: T1 and E1 access networks form a strategically important part of a carrier's service offering. Their already large installed base continues to grow as more and more business customers adopt T1 and E1 for broadband connectivity. Efficient supervision and maintenance of these networks is essential for carriers. In particular, continuous in-service monitoring has become critical as more and more T1 and E1 connections are provided to customers based upon contractual quality of service guarantees in the form of Service Level Agreements (SLA).
This paper describes how carriers currently implement in-service performance monitoring and fault localization on existing T1/E1 circuits using dedicated overlay networks. It identifies how integration of this functionality into the next generations of transport equipment provides increased operational efficiencies that translate to cost savings for carriers. It describes the standardized mechanisms used to support enhanced in-service performance monitoring for T1 and E1 paths and how these will be implemented in the next generations of T1/E1 framing devices. [published: April 2005]Generic Framing Procedure (GFP)
Abstract: GFP was developed to allow efficient transport of packet data through SONET / SDH networks, making use of the new virtual concatenation and LCAS technologies for creating flexible-sized transport channels. [published: April 2005]A Tutorial on SONET / SDH
Abstract: This PMC-Sierra white paper presents a tutorial overview of the SONET / SDH technology widely deployed in today's telecommunications network. [published: March 2005]A Tutorial on SONET / SDH Automatic Protection Switching (APS)
Abstract: The simplest class of mechanism for network survivability in the event of failure on a network element or link is automatic protection switching (APS). APS schemes involve reserving a protection channel (dedicated or shared) with the same capacity as the channel or facility to be protected. This white paper provides an overview of the different types of protection switching available with SONET / SDH networks, focusing on technologies that automatically work at the level of either the SONET (SDH) Line (Multiplex \\\\\\\\\\\\Section) or Path. [published: Feb 2005]Application of Message Assisted Protection Switching (MAPS) to APS Architectures
Abstract: This paper describes how the Message Assisted Protection Switching (MAPS) features that are built into PMC-Sierra devices can be used to reduce the cost of implementation and to speed traffic restoration in known Automatic Protection Switching (APS) architectures. [published: Feb 2005]Evolving Efficient Interconnects for High Density LIUs
Abstract: T1/E1 Mapper/Multiplexer devices have traditionally been connected to the T1/E1 lines via clock and data interfaces. These interfaces have been simple, efficient and easy to route on a circuit board. More recently, LIU densities have increased from singles and doubles to quads, octals and beyond following a simple doubling approach. The density progression of Multiplexer/Mapper bundles has had to follow multiples of 21 or 28 ports for PDH, SONET and SDH networks.
Recent SONET/SDH Mapper and Multiplexer integration has enabled 84/63 port mappers and 3 x M13 multiplexers in a single package. This paper illustrates the potential problems at the Mapper-LIU interface when using a clock and data interface and the system cost advantages possible with a higher speed, lower pin count alternative. [published: June 2004]Flexible Bandwidth Services with DSL Bonding
Abstract: This paper reviews the service requirements and topologies for bonded DSL. It describes DSL bonding techniques and compares the common approaches for various DSL technologies. Of these approaches, IMA (Inverse Multiplexing for ATM) has wide applicability to DSL technologies, builds upon the most commonly deployed layer 2 access technique- ATM, and provides an immediate solution to service providers' and customers' requirements. In particular, IMA-over-SHDSL is gaining wide traction with DSLAM vendors and service providers as a flexible, available solution to business customer requirements and to transport problems for subtended DSLAMs. [published: August 2002]Ethernet Over SONET
Abstract: This White Paper describes the use of the new ITU.G7041 GFP and ITU G.7042 LCAS standards to provide Ethernet leased line service over SONET Virtual Concatenation. [published: February 2002]URL-Based Switching
Abstract: This paper discusses the requirements for switching packets based on Layer 7 information content, such as URL data. URL-based packet switching allows better management of server based applications and improves the performance and reliability of Internet services. [published: February 2001]Toward Content-Based Classification
Abstract: The rapid growth of Internet usage means that an ever-increasing number of people have access to a wide range of Internet services, including entertainment, special interest group content, news, secure business transactions, data storage, shared file access and information exchanges. This paper examines the importance of packet classification and content processing in such networking applications. [published: February 2001]Network Convergence of Voice, Data and Video
Abstract: This paper discusses how the network infrastructures of telecommunications service providers are evolving, driven by the need for cost-effective deployment and management of new and existing services such as public and private telephony, leased line, Frame Relay and ATM. [published: January 2000] -
Mobile
Improving Clock Performance in Base Stations [published: June 2011] -
Processors
Next-Generation Residential Gateways
Abstract: This white paper describes the carriers' vision for the digital home and the multiservice RGs that will make this vision possible. It also describes the integrated, multifunction system-on-achip ( SoC) that is at the heart of the next-generation multiservice RG.[published: May 2006]Delivering PSTN Service Quality with ATAs
Abstract: As broadband services roll out to an ever-larger share of households, PSTN replacement services based on VoIP and broadband access are becoming more pervasive. Service providers - both incumbents and new competitors - are using Analog Terminal Adaptors (ATAs) to rapidly deliver voice service to "the broadband masses". The ATA enables service providers to deliver a PSTN-like service directly over a customers' broadband access connection. This white paper explains the ATA and describes some of the essential building blocks and features that enable an ATA to replicate PSTN service quality levels.[published: November 2005]Processor Bus Fundamentals for SoC Design
Abstract: This paper describes some of the common characteristics of today's processor busses and provides an overview of the top three major public bus standards (PCI Express, HyperTransport, and RapidIO). It also provides a brief overview of internal bus standards (Fast Device Bus (FDB), AMBA, and OCP) and describes some of the challenges that designers need to consider before implementing a bus in their design. Also included is a brief summary of how some of PMC-Sierra's newer SoC products use processor busses. [published: March 2005]Why You Should Use MIPS® Processors?
Abstract: MIPS, as an open standard processor architecture, is the equivalent of Linux in the operating system world. There are a wealth of device vendors and support tools to make designing with MIPS-basedTM microprocessors a rewarding experience. [published: May 2004] -
Others
Designing Multi-Gigabit Serial Backplanes with High Speed SERDES Solutions
Abstract: Old design "rules of thumb" are no longer valid for multi-gigabit backplane design involving high speeds and fast edge rates. For years, backplane-based systems evolved by moving to wider buses and faster signal clock rates. However, as designs reached the 1 Gbit/s range, it became impossible to pass data reliably over parallel buses because signal skew and load problems increased. Shifting from parallel buses to serial interconnects, and using silicon serializer-deserializer (SERDES) solutions, backplanes could deal with a serial stream that combines data and clock in the same signal. As data rates reach beyond the 1 Gbit/s level, new problems of signal integrity arise that must be compensated for. This white paper describes these signal impairments and highlights technological solutions that aid in the design task. [published: November 2002]
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