Synchronous Ethernet and IEEE 1588 in Telecoms: Next Generation Synchronization Networks

This book addresses the multiple technical aspects of the distribution of synchronization in new generation telecommunication networks, focusing in particular on synchronous Ethernet and IEEE1588 technologies. Many packet network engineers struggle with understanding the challenges that precise synchronization distribution can impose on networks. The usual "why", "when" and particularly "how" can cause problems for many engineers. In parallel to this, some other markets have identical synchronization requirements, but with their own design requirements, generating further questions. This book attempts to respond to the different questions by providing background technical information. Invaluable information on state of-the-art packet network synchronization and timing architectures is provided, as well as an unbiased view on the synchronization technologies that have been internationally standardized over recent years, with the aim of providing the average reader (who is not skilled in the art) with a better understanding of this topic.

The book focuses specifically on synchronous Ethernet and IEEE 1588 PTP-based technologies, both key developments in the world of synchronization over the last 10 years. The authors address the needs of engineers and technical managers who are struggling with the subject of synchronization and provide an engineering reference for those that need to consider synchronization in NGN. The market applications that are driving the development of packet network synchronization and timing architectures are also discussed. This book provides a wide audience with everything they need to know when researching, implementing, buying and deploying packet synchronization architectures in telecommunication networks.

Jean-Loup Ferrant worked for Alcatel and Alcatel-Lucent until he retired in 2009, then he continued being Rapporteur of ITU-T SG15Q13 sponsored by Calnex Solutions.

Mike Gilson is a Technical Specialist for BT on timing and synchronization based at Adastral Park, Martlesham Heath, UK. He represents BT in several standards bodies.

Sébastien Jobert is an R&D expert on synchronization, QoS and performance of telecom networks at France Télécom Orange Labs, Lannion, France.

Michael Mayer is an active contributor to ITU-T standards and a consultant in timing and synchronization.

Laurent Montini is a Technical Leader, based in France, and working in the Corporate Consulting Team within the Research and Advanced Development organization at Cisco.

Michel Ouellette is V.P. of Engineering at Iometrix in San Francisco, California, USA, specializing in conformance testing of packet network technologies such as Carrier Ethernet 2.0, MPLS, IEEE1588, SyncE.

Silvana Rodrigues is Director of System Engineering at IDT in Ottawa, Canada. She represents IDT in several synchronization standards committees.

Stefano Ruffini is the synchronization expert representing Ericsson in various standardization bodies. He works in Pisa, Italy in the Research & Innovation Team within the IP & Broadband Development Unit at Ericsson.