DS3 and T3 Circuits and how DS3 can benefit Business Internet Users.

Written by: Les Harper - Feb 4, 2012

DS and T are used to classify digital circuits according to the rate and format of the signal (DS) and the equipment (T) that is used to provide these signals. However, when someone refers to DS1 they are referring to T1, as much of the time these terms are used synonymously. A DS3 line provides non optical, high speed connectivity and transmits data at rates up to 45 mbps. The line has approximately 672 voice grade telephone lines and has the capability of transmitting full motion, real time video and large databases across intensely used, bandwidth hungry networks. Typical installation of the DS3 network would include large corporations, universities and networks with high volume traffic such as call centres, enterprise VoIP and IP PBX systems, Internet service providers, research labs, video conferencing centres and software development companies. A DS3 is ideal for businesses that are in search of unlimited high capacity network access. The signal is composed of 28 DS1 signals and constructed using a two step multiplexing process to convert into seven DS2 signals. The 7-DS2 signals are then, multiplexed into one DS3 signal. Each step requires bit stuffing for handling the input frequencies and the overhead bits provide the alignment, error checking, in band communications and bit control information. Prices of DS3 Connections vary across customers. Normally, a local loop charge and a port charge are imposed on DS3 connections. The local loop charge is the cost to carrier and is based on the distance form the customer’s location to the edge of the network. Prices vary across carriers depending on the type of loop used. Prices may also be impacted with reference to the type of DS3 service a customer is looking for. Full DS3 connections carry a higher charge than fractional DS3 connections. What is the difference? A full DS3 service will be typically required by customers who host high traffic websites and need high capacity bandwidth on demand. Fractional DS3 connections will be ideal for those who require more bandwidth than a T1 line but not the full capacity of a DS3 line. Fractional DS3 line can be turned up on demand into a full DS3 line. Both these connections have speeds that range form 3 Mbps to 45 Mbps. DS3 connection costs may also be computed by local carriers on the basis of the type of application that is to be deployed on the line. DS3 point-to-point, DS3 Internet, DS3 frame relay, DS3 voice and DS3 VPN may all be priced differently by different carriers. Ideally, businesses should obtain quotations from service providers of DS3 lines on costs with relation to the type of loops employed; the distance from the carrier; the type of application to be deployed on the line; and the type of DS3 capability (full or fractional) required. This will give them a complete idea of the costs involved in setting up a DS3 line from different service providers in the locality and the advantages of using the particular service offered.