Improvements in availability and error performance of SONET compared to asynchronous transport systems

The SONET (synchronous optical network) and Async (asynchronous) systems are compared in the context of stringent network error performance and availability requirements for future video, imaging, and other critical services. It is asserted that the SONET approach should provide superior network performance owing to integrated functionality, resulting in correspondingly less exposure to operationally induced errors and outages, and fewer component failures. An analysis of the preliminary data supports this assertion. Significant improvements are also expected when the analysis is extended to the DS1 level. In particular, it is demonstrated by way of representative SONET- and Async-based hypothetical reference digital paths that the SONET approach significantly reduces the number of circuit packs, manual cross-connect panels, and associated jumper cables, patch cords, and connectors. Since these components are prone to failure and procedural errors, reduction in their numbers results in a significant improvement in error performance and availability of the transport network