What is Synchronous Optical Network (SONET)?

What is Synchronous Optical Network (SONET)?

Synchronous Optical Network (SONET) is a North American standard for synchronous data transmission over optical fibers. In other words, SONET is a standardized digital communication protocol. SONET transmits and multiplexes multiple data streams across a fiber optic cable.

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) originally developed SONET for public telephone networks in the 1980s. Today, SONET acts as a standard for digital networks to enable and interconnect with existing conventional transmission systems and enable them to take advantage of optical media through tributary attachments.

Backbone carrier networks typically use SONET. Telecom operators share data over the line of a fiber optic cable instead of digging trenches to bury new cables, which is typically a more expensive process. To multiplex the data, the network separates the cable into separate channels. The speed of data transmission is comparable to Gigabit Ethernet speeds.

Network Elements of SONET

The following are the network elements of a Synchronous Optical Network connection:

• STS Multiplexer – STS multiplexer performs signal multiplexing by converting the electrical signals into optical signals.
• STS Demultiplexer – The STS demultiplexer converts the optical signals back into electrical signals so that they can be delivered as intended.
• Regenerator – A regenerator is more of a repeater that regenerates a signal as it travels over long distances. It makes sure that the signals do not lose their strength as they are bounced off the walls of the optical fiber line.
• Add/Drop Multiplexer – This element of a solid optical network allows signals coming in from different sources to be collected in a given path. Depending on the desired requirements it can add or drop signals.

Synchronous optical networking examples

• OC-3: Operating at a speed of 155.52 Mbps, OC-3 is a popular choice for businesses requiring high-speed data connections.
• OC-12: With a data transfer rate of 622.08 Mbps, OC-12 is often used by larger enterprises and ISPs for backbone connectivity.
• OC-48: Operating at 2.488 Gbps, OC-48 is commonly used for high-capacity network backbones and data center connections.

Benefits of Synchronous Optical Network

• High-speed data transmission – SONET enables the swift transfer of voluminous data over long distances, significantly reducing the time taken to transmit information.
• Scalability and flexibility – Businesses can tailor their network capacities according to their evolving necessities thanks to it being able to support the transmission of various types of data.
• Reliability and robustness – SONET possesses self-healing capabilities and built-in redundancy that ensures minimal downtime. In the event of a link failure, the technology is capable of rerouting the data, ensuring continuity in service availability.
• Interoperability – Interoperability is a feature that allows equipment from different vendors to function seamlessly. This feature enables network operators to combine devices from various manufacturers, leading to cost savings and enhanced flexibility.
• Improved network efficiency – SONET contributes to improved network efficiency because synchronization minimizes errors and enhances the overall efficiency of the network. For example, synchronizing all clocks to a universal master clock ensures the receipt of data transmitted from multiple sources in the correct order.
• Support for multiple data formats – SONET can support multiple data formats. Whether it is voice, video, or other digital data, the technology can handle it all, providing a versatile solution for various communication requirements.

Cons of Synchronous Optical Network

• High costs: SONET’s reliance on specialized equipment and fiber-optic infrastructure can result in significant initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs.
• Limited flexibility: SONET’s TDM-based approach may not be as efficient as newer, more flexible packet-based technologies like Ethernet or MPLS.

Conclusion

It was initially developed for voice communications but has gained immense importance over the last few decades in data transmission technologies as well. Today, many corporations and businesses are looking at adopting Synchronous Optical Networks due to their many advantages and high security.