Fast Ethernet over E3 NTU

• Single E3 network port
• Single 10/100BaseT user port
• Three user-defined QoS priority queues according to 802.1p
• Standard framing using ITU-T X.86 (LAPS)
• VLAN tagging, stacking and stripping support
• TDM diagnostics with remote and local loopback
• Ethernet diagnostics with IP ping and trace-route
• Managed via SNMP, Web server or Telnet

• Reduces CapEx (capital expenditures) by enabling delivery of new Ethernet services over legacy SDH/SONET backbones using existing E3 access
• Increases carriers and service providers’ customer reach
• Guarantees service differentiation and QoS per application
• Lowers operating expenditures (OpEx) by optimizing link capacity
• Supports multi-vendor interoperability
• Minimizes service disruption and reduce operating costs with remote diagnostics

The RICi-E3 is an intelligent network termination unit (NTU), providing Ethernet LAN extension at 34 Mbps over unframed E3 access lines.

The RICi-E3 NTU enables Fast Ethernet connectivity over SDH/SONET backbones, as well as delivery of Ethernet private line (EPL) services requiring high-speed, dedicated point-to-point communication channels. A typical such application is branch-to-center reporting in financial institutions. Other applications include wireless service extension in microwave radio networks over E3 backhaul, allowing operators to expand their network footprint while reducing their capital expenses, via the use of economical Ethernet links instead of costly E3 ports.

The RICi-E3 Fast Ethernet NTU is interoperable with third-party devices, using X.86 standard protocol. Additionally, it offers remote fault indication and diagnostics with secure, end-to-end traffic separation and guaranteed service rates.

Quality of Service and VLAN capabilities

User-defined VLAN priority scheme (802.1p) enables users to define three quality-of-service (QoS) levels, according to application requirements. VLAN tagging, stacking and stripping capabilities allow transparent delivery of user traffic, keeping all user VLAN settings intact. The built-in Ethernet bridge can operate in VLAN-unaware or VLAN-aware modes.

Diagnostics and Fault Propagation

The RICi-E3 supports diagnostic tools for TDM and Ethernet networks, for fast isolation of network problems, saving time and costs. Remote and local loopbacks are used to isolate problems on the physical layer, while ping, trace route and ICMP messages enable diagnostics of the Ethernet layer.

In cases of error conditions on the TDM port, a fault propagation feature disconnects the link on the Fast Ethernet port, and enables routers on both ends of the link to reroute the traffic.

Loop Detection

Ethernet loops, originating either in the PDH network or at the Ethernet interface, are immediately detected and prompt the disconnection of the bridge port, so that “Ethernet storms” are avoided. The bridge port resumes normal operation when the loop is removed.

SNMP Management

The RICi-E3 features flexible management capabilities, including local management via an ASCII terminal (RS-232). In addition, remote management can be performed either inband or out-of-band, using the network or user ports, while maintaining separation between management and user traffic via the use of VLANs. Advanced FCAPS (Fault, Configuration, Accounting, Performance, Security) and diagnostic tools are provided by RADview-EMS, RAD’s carrier-class element management system, via a Web browser.

The RICi-E3 also supports a variety of configuration access channels, including Telnet, SNMP, Web server, and TFTP.

The DHCP client automatically obtains the IP address, IP mask, and default gateway, minimizing installation time.