By Zia Askari
Synchronization as a service can propel a new revenue stream for operators
As more and more telecom networks are moving towards embracing next generation communication technologies, accurate delivery and assurance of timing is required for the evolution of mobile broadband networks from 3G to 4G (LTE to LTE-A). In this complex network scenario, synchronization is the only way to make sure that there is interference control and flexible utilization of spectrum capacity for an operator’s network.
Speaking about the opening up of unique set of possibilities on synchronization, Dr Christoph Glingener, Chief Technology Officer, ADVA Optical Networking explained, “I think that synchronization is going to play a very critical role in terms of determining the winners in the telecom space. Especially, when we are moving towards co-existence of multiple generations of communications technologies such as 2G, 3G and 4G scenarios where operators need to focus their effort on making sure that users get the best possible data rate. There will be multiple sets of base stations talking with the users in order to deliver high bit rates. This is where synchronization is important,” he added.
It is important to note that ADVA Optical Networking has recently acquired Oscilloquartz SA from the Swatch Group. The acquisition now provides ADVA Optical Networking with a complete end-to-end solution for the delivery and assurance of highly accurate timing. The availability of accurate timing is not only critical in the development of mobile broadband networks but also to a wide range of enterprises, including financial organizations, utility companies and government institutions.
“Today, there is no solution that can solve this kind of issue for the operators. Hence, there is a huge opportunity in front of us. And most importantly, as operators look for ways and means to increase their revenue streams, technology-led applications such as ‘synchronization as a service’ can play a vital role in terms of establishing leadership for an operator. Very soon, this can be sold as a service to the customers,” he added.
To address this opportunity, ADVA Optical Networking has a technology called Syncjack™ that can monitor and even improve synchronization for the operators. There are many possibilities here, as the company can even undertake an entire audit of the network and share details with the operator on how to improve his synchronization capabilities.
“The whole concept of delivering accurate timing and synchronization through the network will open up a wide range of new opportunities. Operators will be able to take their existing, asynchronous packet infrastructure to the next level and offer new services. And enterprise customers will be able to synchronise their applications and client systems over the network interconnecting them,” Dr Glingener explained.
