Realising the benefits of SDH technology for the delivery of services in the access network

The deployment of synchronous digital hierarchy (SDH) networks has gained increasing momentum world-wide as network operators seek to reap the benefits of low operating costs, high flexibility, and high quality of service. Commercially available SDH equipment is primarily based on deployment in core networks and is therefore unsuitable for locating at most customers premises. This paper describes how SDH technology and the advantages it offers may be extended into the access network and customer premises. Described are proposals using equipment available now and modified future options such that service delivery to customers is optimised.<>