Integrated switching and transmission planning in exchange - carrier networks

Abstract

Telecommunications networks are faced with rapid techno logical change affecting virtually all aspects of network architecture, operations, services capabilities and survivability. Network planning for a graceful evolution from today's voice networks to tomorrow's intelligent networks requires a totally integrated planning approach which encompasses incremental technology changes in the various network elements, namely: switching, transmission; signalling and operations. Exchange carriers, in particular, need to rethink the historical concept of 'wire centers', and make decisions regarding the degree to which both switching logic and network fabric are distributed in tomorrow's broadband networks. This paper reviews some early analysis by Cincinnati Bell Telephone with respect to planning such network evolution. Many of the issues identified will also be faced by other exchange carriers or telecommunications administrations as new technology is introduced to support the intelligent networks of the future.