What's The Difference Between DS3 And T3 Bandwidth?

Don't be confused about the difference between DS3 and T3 circuits. These terms are really synonymous. Instead you should focus on what they can do for you...and the best scenarios for application.

Digital Signal (DS) is a system of classifying digital circuits according to the rate and format of the signal (DS) and the equipment providing the signals (T). DS and T designations have come to be used synonymously so that DS1 implies T1, and DS3 implies T3.

A DS3 line (also known as a T-3) is an ultra high-speed connection capable of transmitting data at rates up to 45 Mbps. A DS3 line is equal to approximately 672 regular voice-grade telephone lines, which is fast enough to transmit full-motion, real-time video, and very large databases over a busy network. A DS3 line is typically installed as a major networking artery for large corporations and universities with high-volume network traffic. Other example applications include large call centers, enterprise wide VoIP and IP PBX systems, Internet service providers, research labs, video conference centers and software development companies. A DS3 is the second fastest, non optical connection offered in North America. A DS3 line is comprised of 28 T1 lines, each operating at total signaling rate of 1.544 Mbps.

DS3 circuits provide businesses and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) with up to 45 Mb/s of dedicated Internet connectivity. This is an ideal solution for users who have outgrown their T1 connections and are in search of unlimited, high-capacity access. A DS3 line actually consists of 672 individual channels, each of which supports 64 Kb/s. DS3 lines are extremely high bandwidth connections into a carrier's backbone. They typically include SLAs (Service Level Agreements) that guarantee uptime and performance.

The DS3 signal itself is composed of 28 DS1 signals and is constructed using a two-step multiplexing process. First, the 28 DS1 signals are multiplexed into seven DS2 signals. Second, the seven DS2 signals are multiplexed into one DS3 signal. Each multiplexing step uses bit stuffing to handle the different input frequencies. Overhead bits provide alignment, error checking, in-band communications, and bit stuffing control information.

Line rate: 44,736,000 b/s
Signals: 7 DS2 signals = 28 DS1 signals
Overhead bits:
56 bits total/frame
F-bits (framing) 28 bits/
M-bits (multiframing) 3 bits/
C-bits (stuffing) 21 bits
X-bits (message) 2 bits/
P-bits (parity) 2 bits/
Data bits between overhead bits 84

A DS3 connection is comprised up of two monthly charges: the local loop and the port charge. The local loop charge is the cost of the circuit provided by the Local Exchange Carrier (LEC) that allows DS3 access into the carrier's network. The loop charge is based on the distance from the customer's location to the edge of the carrier's network; the farther the customer is from the network, the more the loop will cost. Nearly every carrier prices loops differently so it is in your best interest to price DS3 service with several providers to ensure that you get the best deal.

DS Internet Access is the ideal solution for businesses that require high-bandwidth access at a reduced price. Whether you host high-traffic Web sites, support Web hosting or need high-capacity bandwidth on an as-needed basis, there's a level of DS3 service (Full or fractional) that will meet your needs. Fractional to full DS3 or T3 circuits run from speeds of 3 Mbps up to 45 Mbps.

For customers that require more bandwidth than a T1 line can provide but do not yet require the capacity of a full DS3 line, a fractional DS3 connection is the ideal solution. A fractional DS3 is similar to a full DS(T)3, only with some of the channels turned off. This reduces the total monthly cost and provides additional capacity that can be turned up in a matter of days. Unfortunately, the DS3 (T) loop is still required for this service.

If a full DS3 line is more bandwidth that you really need, it is also possible to get Fractional DS3, which gives you a portion of full DS3 bandwidth at a lower cost. Of course, DS3 is also available in multiples to increase bandwidth, similar to bonded T1 service.

DS3 service can be deployed for a wide verity of applications. The most common uses are DS3 point-to-point, DS3 internet, DS3 frame relay, DS3 voice and DS3 VPN. The pricing for these connections varies widely depending on the carrier, location of service and the application for which the connection is being used. Visit DS3 Bandwidth to obtain current real time rate quotes for your location.

Michael is the owner of FreedomFire Communications....including Business-VoIP-Solution.com. Michael also authors Broadband Nation where you're always welcome to drop in and catch up on the latest BroadBand news, tips, insights, and ramblings for the masses.

Broadband Satellite Internet

Broadband satellite Internet has provided hope for rural subscribers who are outside the coverage areas of most Internet service providers. Most home subscribers opt for cable and DSL Internet connections. But in areas which are not under the range of the high-speed broadband connection, or where dial-up access is extremely slow, satellite broadband Internet is a boon. The technology has been there for a long time, but it has evolved in more recent times.

The connection does not use wire, but requires an intermediary satellite. Requests are logged through a home computer and a special satellite modem to a satellite dish, which is installed on the roof of the subscriber?s office or house. These signals are sent or received from the dish satellite to an orbiting satellite, which in turn sends or transmits information to the dish satellite at the service provider?s office. The connection speed is a little less in comparison to DSL and cable Internet connections. This can be a drawback while using certain applications, such as real-time interactive games.

However, does not affect web surfing and sighting. A lot of these shortcomings can be overcome by using a signal amplifier, to cater to external or climatic disturbance and signal locators, to catch signals faster. Some other problems associated with satellite broadband Internet connections are that the installation charge for the dish satellite and the monthly subscription charges are a bit expensive, in comparison to DSL and cable connections.

The satellite dish being installed outside on the roof is liable to damage due to climatic conditions like rain and high-intensity wind. The expenses required for setting up the right kind of infrastructure for the rural subscribers has been one more reason for the technological lag in this area. Despite all of these shortcomings it is the best option for those who are placed at a geographically disadvantaged condition, and the promise of a better future lies ahead.

Broadband Internet provides detailed information on Broadband Internet, Broadband Internet Access, Broadband Satellite Internet, Broadband Internet Providers and more. Broadband Internet is affiliated with Broadband Speeds.

Does More Bandwidth For Your Business IT Application Mean More Speed? Not Always.

For the higher bandwidth pipes like OC3 and above....there are very few business situations where bandwidth increases have a significant impact on speed.

Bandwidth plays but one part in the issue of IT performance, and in particular speed as perceived by the users. It is important to understand that transmission control protocol, the TCP in TCP/IP, plays a much bigger role.

The job of TCP is to provide reliable data delivery. It was developed back when circuits were predominately analog and errors were common. Of course, the data flow was significantly different as well and consisted mostly of small strings of text. TCP regulates the flow of data between end points using an aggressive correction algorithm that is very sensitive to errors and latency.

The impact of TCP on speed begins with just a 10 msec latency. An OC-3 bandwidth pipe (155 Mbps) has a theoretical throughput of about 19 MBps, assuming maximum packet sizes and minimal IP and routing overheads. That OC-3 pipe with 10 msec round trip delay will have a maximum throughput of about 6 MBps. Add an error rate of 1%, and that drops to 2 MBps. That 1% is between nodes, so it includes any errors from premise wiring as well as any errors across the WAN. If the latency is 100 msec, the maximum throughput on that OC-3 pipe is about 500 KBps. This is all TCP related and excludes any processing time on either node. A DS-3 bandwidth pipe (45 Mbps) can almost achieve that same rate of performance.

Now that is all assuming only two devices communicating for the duration of the data transfer. As the device count increases, the impact of congestion increases. Still, circuit congestion is rarely the problem with business IT performance.

Regardless, most applications never come close to achieving maximum performance. In most cases with 780 Kbps connectivity or higher, the communications delay represents less than 10 percent of the total time for any IT task. The remainder of the time is with processing at either end. Likewise, few applications optimize their data content to take the best advantage of the available bandwidth. The payload in most packets is full of application overhead from poorly optimized processing.

Before leasing more circuit capacity, know what you are using (percentage of capacity), how you are using it (usage by application), and what speed issue you are fighting (task analysis). With this information, you can determine if you need more bandwidth, less latency, application optimization, or maybe a jump off of TCP for some specific requirements.

To navigate through the complex assessment and decision process for determining the appropriate bandwidth configuration for your business IT application(s)....I strongly encourage the aid of an unbiased independent consultant. The technical advisior team at DS3-Bandwidth.com will provide this service to you at no cost. Just one less issue for you to worry about.

Michael is the owner of FreedomFire Communications....including DS3-Bandwidth.com and Business-VoIP-Solution.com. Michael also authors Broadband Nation where you're always welcome to drop in and catch up on the latest BroadBand news, tips, insights, and ramblings for the masses.

SBC DSL: A Good Choice for High Speed Internet

What is the best way for me to go about getting high speed internet in my house? I searched on line and through the yellow pages, only to find that there are an uncountable number of high speed internet options out there. However, as I sifted through all of the consumer sites and user reviews, I found that SBC DSL may, indeed, be the best bet for bringing high speed internet to my home office.

According to many a review, SBC DSL is the most reliable DSL service out there. They also happen to be the largest in many major metropolitan areas in the country, or at least those serviced by Southwestern Bell. SBC DSL has a spectacular reputation among consumers for having technologically advanced products, great customer service, and good competitive prices on their service. The only drawback I could find is that several SBC DSL customers found setting up a home network to be difficult. However, by simply converting to wireless internet, you can solve that problem and still have your SBC DSL connection all over your home.

A big advantage of SBC DSL is that in most cases you can get a free modem and setup. Setup can be one of the more frustrating parts of getting high speed internet, especially if you are not technically savvy. Many companies charge a setup fee, so that savings alone can make SBC DSL attractive to you. Installation can be difficult, and there is charge for that. However, if you do it yourself they waive the fee and you will still have access to the very knowledgeable and helpful SBC DSL customer service representatives.

Many high speed and DSL internet companies will not be willing to give you a firm date as to when you can get your connection taken care of. That is another way that SBC DSL is different. Once you place an order you are given an installation date, which is as a general rule about six business days out from when you call. Such convenience and up front commitment from a company makes it easier for you to arrange your schedule around setup and installation plenty of time in advance without fear that you will have to make more last minute changes to your busy schedule.

There are a ton of high speed internet options out there today. There are cable internet, DSL companies, wireless internet over cell phone signals, and even high speed dial up connections. Each one tells you that it is the best for converting your office or home to high speed internet connection. Which, though, is the best? That is hard to say definitively as prices and services vary by area, but the one with the best reputation around is SBC DSL. By offering friendly representatives, good competitive pricing, and commitment to service, SBC DSL is a model high speed internet service. They will allow you to go to high speed without the worry of setup, installation, and whether or not you will be able to get in touch with someone the next time you have a problem with the service. That peace of mind is as valuable as anything else.

If you would like the latest information on high speed internet, or find more of my personal articles like the one you just read, visit my computing site.

Wifi Hotspot Locations for Sale..is that a Good Thing?

Recent companies have been advertising wifi hotspot locations that are 'turnkey' (they can run themselves), and only cost between $13,000 and $20,000 to start. Is that good?

First of all, if it's so turnkey then why aren't they just popping off wifi hotspot locations left and right for themselves, is it their newfound generosity that has them 'sharing' the opportunities they have available. I'm not knocking the possibility of some companies to provide a business model, like in the restaurant business where they allow you to own a branded franchise for an initial investment in order to spread out locations in a more easier return on investment. However, wifi locations normally have an additional service or product that acts as an anchor for customers to come in and use the benefit of wi-fi to connect to the Internet thru broadband high speed access. Starbucks and Hilton Hotels are prime examples of a business model that has customers coming in for a service or product and then using wifi access as a secondary product/service.

Secondly, the potential for wifi hotspots cannot be limited to a cookie-cutter system that will fit everyone, after all if that were the case the other auto makers wouldn't be in business and we would still be driving 'Model T' Fords. Not to mention the fact that if you open a business with only wifi access as the only product/service available and then the community, town or city where your business is located decides to wirelessly enable the public transportation system like in the southern California city of Cerritos; guess what - your business just got knocked the flip out.

African American small business people have resources, and some may believe those resources are unlimited. But if you shell out $20,000 for a new business and after 6 months get locked out of your client base by a larger business or business model, you have lost more than your investment. A wifi business is not something that can be advanced as able to stand on it's own in the present day. In the example above the city of Cerritos is delivering wifi along with it's transportation system, which should probably increase ridership as people will opt to ride and check their email or just finish up a project as they go to work or to shop.

Look carefully at starting to use wifi in your business, research and see if there is a potential for competition to knock you client base out of the ballpark. Even then, when is your competition going to implement their wifi access and see if you have time to enhance your wifi service with coupons or other attractive services that may not be available to your competition. Wifi access will become a very powerful business asset in the coming year and more so in the future. Now is the time to get your feet wet, just check out your options in order not to get drowned out of business.

We can help give you your freedom back...and a whole lot more. M.D.T.G.

Daviyd Peterson: 10-year consultant, instructor, trainer
Helps african american SMBs bridge the digital divide by becoming wireless Small Office Digital Offices (SODO). Free article on Home Wireless Internet Security and other related articles http://www.mogendaviydtechgroup.com/firewallsmb.htm See a video where big time firewalls duke it out!

DS3 Bandwidth Pricing Is Getting Cheaper How To Best Take Advantage

The predicted end to dropping DS3 bandwidth pricing is premature as the downward pricing trend continues. Service providers are up against stiffer competition and are desperate for new customers to fill their pipes and turn a profit. If you're ready to negotiate for a rock bottom price, first consider a few of the reasons for the drop in price on DS3 bandwith. A little preperation will allow you to take best advantage of the situation.

DS3 bandwidth pricing had reduced as companies have gone out of business and the large number of telecommunications companies are fighting for a place in a smaller market. While many service providers did have room to lose margin, many have come dangerously close to the edge of selling circuits at a loss and many have gone beyond this point. It seems that in the race to the bottom many providers failed to learn the lesson that selling at a loss does not create a long lasting and healthy company no matter how many circuits or widgets you sell. Many companies selling at a loss have already been in bankruptcy and look like they will repeat this exercise as they did not learn from their first go around. So, solvency of the DS3 bandwidth provider should be a consideration when looking at great bargains.

Another consideration in bargain shopping for DS3 service is the fact that all DS3's are not created equal. Many providers are convinced (and rightly so) that customers are focused on price and are not concerned with quality of service. Many providers are now oversubscribing DS3 service connections as though they were DSL connections. This means you may not get the bandwidth you thought you would get. Make sure when you look for that bargain price you also review the SLA (Service Level Agreement) and make sure the contract protects you and guarantees you will get the bandwidth to which they committed. Remember, when bargain hunting for DS3 service you'll most likely get what you pay for.

So the general moral to the story is by all means do negotiate for the best price you can get. But....ensure that critical factors such as reliability, Service Level Agreement, QoS, and scalability are met in addition to price attractiveness. For this I receommend sticking with a Tier1 provider for best price AND piece of mind. It just makes business sense.

Michael is the owner of FreedomFire Communications....including DS3-Bandwidth.com and Business-VoIP-Solution.com. Michael also authors Broadband Nation where you're always welcome to drop in and catch up on the latest BroadBand news, tips, insights, and ramblings for the masses.