Glossary

Numerics

2B1Q

2 binary 1 quaternary. An encoding scheme that provides a 2 bits per baud, 80k baud per second, 160kbps transfer rate. The most common signaling method on ISDN U interfaces.

4xflexi

quad-port flexi ATU-C line card. Supports four ADSL modem connections and CAP, DMT, and G.lite line encoding. For chassis compatibility, refer to the Cisco DSLAM Compatibility Notes or the appropriate hardware installation guide.

4xSDSL

quad-port STU-C line card. Supports four SDSL modem connections and 2B1Q line encoding. For chassis compatibility, refer to the Cisco DSLAM Compatibility Notes or the appropriate hardware installation guide.

8xDMT

octal-port DMT ATU-C line card. Supports eight ADSL modem connections and DMT line encoding. For chassis compatibility, refer to the Cisco DSLAM Compatibility Notes or the appropriate hardware installation guide.

8xG.SHDSL

octal-port SHTU-C line card. Supports eight G.SHDSL modem connections and TC-PAM line encoding. For chassis compatibility, refer to the Cisco DSLAM Compatibility Notes or the appropriate hardware installation guide.

8xIDSL

octal-port ITU-C line card. Supports eight IDSL modem connections, or four connections when the chassis limits the number of tip and ring connectors. Supports 2B1Q line encoding. For chassis compatibility, refer to the Cisco DSLAM Compatibility Notes or the appropriate hardware installation guide.

A

AAL

ATM adaptation layer. AAL is an adaptation layer within the data link layer of the OSI model. AAL is divided into a segmentation and reassembly sublayer (SAR) and a convergence sublayer. The SAR divides the application datastream into transmit cells and then reassembles the received cells into a datastream that is compatible with the related application. The convergence sublayer specifies the requirements for the various types of applications that run over ATM. AAL is defined in terms of types, 1 to 5, specified by the type of traffic that it supports. Each type offers an appropriate QoS.

ABR

available bit rate. A QoS class defined by the ATM Forum for ATM networks. ABR is used for connections that do not require timing relationships between source and destination. ABR provides no guarantees in terms of cell loss or delay, providing only best-effort service. Traffic sources adjust their transmission rate in response to information they receive describing the status of the network and its capability to successfully deliver data. Compare with CBR, UBR, and VBR.

accounting management

One of five categories of network management defined by ISO for the management of ISO networks. Accounting management subsystems are responsible for collecting network data that relates to resource usage. See also configuration management, fault management, performance management, and security management.

address

Data structure or logical convention used to identify a unique entity, such as a particular process or network device.

ADSL

asymmetric digital subscriber line. An xDSL technology in which more bandwidth is delivered downstream (from the CO to the customer site) than upstream over a single copper twisted pair. Compare with IDSL, SDSL, and SHDSL. See also DSL.

alarm

A notification that a traffic signal has degraded or failed or that equipment is malfunctioning. See also event and trap.

AM

amplitude modulation. A modulation technique by which information is conveyed through the amplitude of the carrier signal. Compare with FM and PAM. See also modulation.

American National Standards Institute

See ANSI.

American Wire Gauge

See AWG.

amplitude modulation

See AM.

ANSI

American National Standards Institute. An organization that coordinates, develops, and approves international and U.S. standards for, among other things, communications and networking. ANSI is a member of ISO. See also ISO.

APS

automatic protection switching. A method that allows transmission equipment to recover automatically from failures, such as a cut cable.

asymmetric digital subscriber line

See ADSL.

asynchronous communications

A method of transmitting data in which individual characters are encapsulated in control bits (called start and stop bits) that designate the beginning and end of each character. Asynchronous transmission allows communication without precise clocking.

Asynchronous Transfer Mode

See ATM.

ATM

Asynchronous Transfer Mode. The international standard for cell relay in which multiple service types (voice, video, or data, for example) are transmitted in fixed-length (53-byte) cells. ATM offers fast packet technology, and real-time, demand-led switching for efficient use of network resources.

ATM adaptation layer

See AAL.

ATU-C

See xTU-C.

ATU-R

See xTU-R.

authentication

In security, the verification of the identity of a person or a process.

autodiscovery

The process by which a network device automatically searches through a range of network addresses and discovers the known types of devices that are present. Also see subrack discovery.

automatic protection switching

See APS.

available bit rate

See ABR.

AWG

American Wire Gauge. The standard gauge for measurement of thickness of a wire in the United States.

B

backplane

The physical connection between an interface processor or card and the data buses and the power distribution buses inside a DSLAM.

bandwidth

The difference between the highest and lowest frequencies available for network signals. The term also is used to describe the rated throughput capacity of a given network medium or protocol. For a digital channel, this is defined in bits. For an analog channel, it depends on the type and method of modulation used to encode the data.

bandwidth on demand

The ability of a user to dynamically set upstream and downstream line speeds to a particular rate of speed.

BITS

building integrated timing supply. A clock in a CO that supplies DS1 or composite clock timing references to all synchronous network elements in that office.

bits per second

See bps.

bootflash

Separate Flash memory device used primarily to store the Cisco IOS boot image, operational Cisco IOS images, and system configuration information.

BOOTP

Bootstrap Protocol. The protocol used by a network node to determine the IP address of its Ethernet interfaces to affect network booting.

Bootstrap Protocol

See BOOTP.

bps

bits per second. A standard measurement of digital transmission speeds.

bridge

A device that connects two or more physical networks and forwards packets between them. Bridges can usually be made to filter packets, that is, to forward only certain traffic. See switch and router.

broadband

In telecommunications, any channel having a bandwidth greater than a voice-grade channel (4 kHz).

broadband remote access server

Device that terminates remote users at the corporate network or Internet users at the internet service provider (ISP) network that provides firewall, authentication, and routing services for remote users.

broadcast

Data packet that are sent to all nodes on a network. Broadcasts are identified by a broadcast address. Compare with multicast and unicast.

building integrated timing supply

See BITS.

bus topology

A linear method of connecting devices so that transmissions from network stations propagate the length of the medium and are received by all other stations. Compare with daisy-chain topology, ring topology, star topology, and tree topology.

C

CAP

Carrierless Amplitude and Phase Modulation. A bandwidth efficient transmission technology for implementing DSL. The transmit and receive signals are modulated into two wide-frequency bands using passband modulation techniques. CAP supports ADSL and RADSL line coding.

Carrierless Amplitude and Phase Modulation

See CAP.

CBOS

Cisco Broadband Operating System. The operating system that users access to configure and operate the Cisco 600 Series DSL CPE products.

CBR

constant bit rate. A QoS class defined by the ATM Forum for ATM networks. CBR is used for connections that depend on precise clocking to ensure undistorted delivery. Compare with ABR, UBR, and VBR.

CDM

Cisco DSL Manager. An SNMP-based element management system with fault, configuration, and performance reporting capabilities. CDM runs within the Cisco EMF and manages DSLAMs through a GUI.

central office

See CO.

chassis

The cage or housing into which cards or modules are installed. See also DSLAM and multiplexer.

child

See subtended node chassis.

Cisco Broadband Operating System

See CBOS.

Cisco DSL Manager

See CDM.

Cisco Element Management Framework

See Cisco EMF.

Cisco EMF

Cisco Element Management Framework. The element management layer of the system. Cisco EMF provides the framework to support carrier-class element managers across Cisco service provider product lines.

Cisco IOS

Cisco system software that provides common functionality, scalability, and security for all products under the CiscoFusion architecture. Cisco IOS is a CLI that allows centralized, integrated, and automated installation and management of internetworks while ensuring support for a wide variety of protocols, media, services, and platforms.

Cisco Service Management

See CSM.

CLEI

common language equipment identifier. The standard code used by suppliers to identify equipment parts and system configurations. CLEI is a registered trademark of Bellcore (now Telcordia).

CLI

command line interface. An interface that allows the user to interact with the operating system by entering commands and optional arguments.

client

Node or software program (front-end device) that requests services from a server.

CO

central office. A local telephone company office at all local loops in a given area connect and where the circuit switching of subscriber lines occurs.

command line interface

See CLI.

common language equipment identifier

See CLEI.

community string

Text string that acts as a password used with SNMP protocol. The password is used to authenticate messages and can be read-only or have read/write privileges; setting it to read-only is private and setting it to read-write is public. A community string is case sensitive.

configuration management

One of five categories of network management defined by ISO for the management of OSI networks. Configuration management subsystems are responsible for detecting and determining the state of a network. See also accounting management, fault management, performance management, and security management.

configuration register

In Cisco DSLAMs, a 16-bit, user-configurable value that determines how the DSLAM functions during initialization. The configuration register can be stored in hardware or software. In hardware, the bit position is set using a jumper. In software, the bit position is set by specifying a hexadecimal value using configuration commands.

connectionless network

A type of communications network in which no logical connection (for example, no leased line or dialed-up channel) is required between sending and receiving stations. Compare with connection-oriented network.

connection-oriented network

A type of communications network in which data transfer requires the establishment of a virtual circuit. Compare with connectionless network.

constant bit rate

See CBR.

CPE

customer premises equipment. Terminating equipment, such as terminals, telephones, and modems, supplied by the telephone company. The equipment is installed at customer sites and connected to the telephone company network.

CSM

Cisco Service Management system of OAM&P and management tools for service providers and large enterprise networks.

customer premises equipment

See CPE.

D

daemon

A program that is not invoked explicitly but lies dormant waiting for some condition(s) to occur.

daisy-chain topology

A method of connecting devices in a series so that signals are passed through the chain from one device to the next. Unlike a ring topology, the last device in the series is not connected to the first. Compare with bus topology, ring topology, star topology, and tree topology.

data circuit-terminating equipment

See DCE.

data storage backup

Process of making a copy of the data that resides on a server.

data terminal equipment

See DTE.

DCE

Data circuit-terminating equipment (ITU-T expansion). Devices and connections of a communications network that comprise the network end of the user-to-network interface. The DCE provides a physical connection to the network, forwards traffic, and provides a clocking signal used to synchronize data transmissions between DCE and DTE devices. Modems and interface cards are examples of DCE. Compare with DTE.

DDTS

Distributed Defect Tracking System. Cisco tracks bugs in a variety of products, including router software, communication server software, and network management software, using a system called DDTS. DDTS is also used for bugs in some hardware and microcode products, and for bugs in some internal tools, including the automated test software and various Software Tools.

destination address

Address of a network device that is receiving data. See also source address.

DHCP

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. Provides a mechanism to allocate IP addresses dynamically so that addresses can be reused when hosts no longer need them. Defined in RFC 2131.

digital signal level 3

See DS3.

digital subscriber line

See DSL.

digital subscriber line access multiplexer

See DSLAM.

Discrete Multitone

See DMT.

Distributed Defect Tracking System

See DDTS.

distributed server

Server that supports a specific group of users on the network. Also referred to as local or workgroup server.

DMT

Discrete Multitone. A technology that uses digital signal processors to transmit more than 6 Mbps of video, data, image, and voice signals over existing one pair copper wiring. DMT supports ADSL line coding.

downstream

Data that is coming from the NI-2 card to the subscriber lines. See also upstream.

DS3

digital signal level 3. A framing specification used for transmitting digital signals at 44.736 Mbps on a T3 facility. See also E3.

DSL

digital subscriber line. Public network technology that delivers high bandwidth over conventional copper wiring at limited distances. There are several types of DSL: ADSL, IDSL, SDSL, and SHDSL, to name a few. All are provisioned via modem pairs, with one modem located at a CO and the other at the customer site. Because most DSL technologies do not use the whole bandwidth of the twisted pair, there is room remaining for a voice channel. See also ADSL, IDSL, SDSL, and SHDSL.

DSL Forum

An organization of competing companies that sponsors an Internet Web site (http://www.adsl.com) containing information about the applications, technology, systems, market, trials, and tariffs related to DSL technology.

DSLAM

digital subscriber line access multiplexer. A device that connects many digital subscriber lines to a network by multiplexing the DSL traffic onto one or more network trunk lines. The Cisco DSLAMs include the Cisco 6015, Cisco 6100, Cisco 6130, Cisco 6160, and Cisco 6260. See also chassis and multiplexer.

DTE

data terminal equipment. Device at the user end of a user-network interface that serves as a data source, destination, or both. DTE connects to a data network through a DCE device (for example, a modem) and typically uses clocking signals generated by the DCE. DTE includes such devices as computers, protocol translators, and multiplexers. Compare with DCE.

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol

See DHCP.

E

E1

Wide-area digital transmission scheme used predominantly in Europe that carries data at a rate of 2.048 Mbps. See also T1.

E3

Wide-area digital transmission scheme used predominantly in Europe that carries data at a rate of 34.368 Mbps. See also DS3 and T3.

EFCI

explicit forward congestion indication. In ATM, one of the congestion feedback modes allowed by ABR service. EFCI is set by a network element to notify the destination end-system of congestion or impending congestion in the network.

EIA

Electronic Industries Alliance. A standards organization made up of electronics industry organizations. EIA is responsible for the RS-232C and RS-422 standards.

Electronic Industries Alliance

See EIA.

electrostatic discharge

See ESD.

encapsulation

The wrapping of data in a particular protocol header. For example, Ethernet data is wrapped in a specific Ethernet header before network transit. Also, when bridging a dissimilar network, the entire frame from one network is placed in the header used by the data link layer protocol of the other network.

EPROM

Erasable programmable read-only memory. Nonvolatile memory chips that are programmed after they are manufactured, and, if necessary, can be erased by some means and reprogrammed.

erasable programmable read-only memory

See EPROM.

error detection

A process used during file transfer to discover discrepancies between transmitted and received data. Some file transfer programs only detect errors; others detect errors and attempt to fix them (called error correction).

ESD

electrostatic discharge. Discharge of stored static electricity that can damage electronic equipment and impair electrical circuitry, resulting in complete or intermittent failures.

ESF

Extended Superframe. A framing type that is used on T1 circuits that consists of 24 frames of 192 bits each, with the 193rd bit providing timing and other functions.

Ethernet

One of the most common LAN wiring schemes, Ethernet has a transmission rate of 10 Mbps; a newer standard called Fast Ethernet has a rate of 100 Mbps.

ETSI

European Telecommunications Standards Institute. ETSI is a non-profit organization producing voluntary telecommunications standards used throughout Europe, some of which have been adopted by the european community as the technical base for Directives or Regulations.

European Telecommunications Standards Institute

See ETSI.

event

Network message indicating operational irregularities in physical elements of a network or a response to the occurrence of a significant task, typically the completion of a request for information. See also alarm and trap.

explicit forward congestion indication

See EFCI.

Extended Superframe

See ESF.

F

fault management

One of five categories of network management defined by ISO for management of OSI networks. Fault management attempts to ensure that network faults are detected and controlled. See also accounting management, configuration management, performance management, and security management.

FCC

Federal Communications Commission. A U.S. government agency that regulates interstate and foreign communications. The FCC sets rates for communication services, determines standards for equipment, and controls broadcast licensing.

Federal Communications Commission

See FCC.

ferrite

Use on coaxial cables to reduce the radiation/EMI susceptibility to high frequency noise.

field replaceable unit

See FRU.

File Transfer Protocol

See FTP.

firmware

Software instructions set permanently or semi-permanently in ROM.

flash memory

A special type of EPROM that can be used and reprogrammed in blocks instead of one byte at a time.

FM

frequency modulation. Modulation technique in which signals of different frequencies represent different data values. Compare with AM and PAM. See also modulation.

frame

A packet as it is transmitted over a serial line. The term derives from character-oriented protocols that involved the addition of special start-of-frame and end-of-frame characters for packet transmission.

frequency modulation

See FM.

FRU

field replaceable unit. Hardware component that can be removed and replaced on-site. Typical FRUs include cards, modules, PEMs, and some chassis components. When FRUs are removed from the chassis, service is interrupted for some or all of the system.

FTP

File Transfer Protocol. The application protocol used to transfer files between network nodes.

G

G.992.1

Also known as G.dmt.

G.992.2

The ITU standard for line coding and framing for splitterless, reduced spectrum ADSL. Also known as G.lite.

G.994.1

The ITU standard for signaling, identification, and negotiation between broadband systems; an integral part of G.dmt and G.lite. Also known as G.hs.

G.997.1

The ITU standard for performance monitoring on DMT access technologies.

G.dmt

Pseudonym for G.992.1.

G.hs

Pseudonym for G.994.1.

G.lite

Pseudonym for G.992.2.

G.SHDSL

See SHDSL.

graphical user interface

See GUI.

GUI

graphical user interface. A user environment that uses pictorial as well as textual representations of the input and the output of applications and the hierarchical or other data structure in which information is stored.

H

handshake

See hs.

HDLC

High-Level Data Link Control. Bit-oriented synchronous data link layer protocol developed by ISO. Derived from Synchronous Data Link Control (SDLC), HDLC specifies a data encapsulation method on synchronous serial links using frame characters and checksums.

header

(1) The protocol control information that is located at the beginning of a protocol data unit. (2) The portion of a message that contains information to guide the message to the correct destination and contains, for example, sender and receiver addresses and routing instructions.

High-Level Data Link Control

See HDLC.

host

Computer system on a network. Similar to the term node, except that host usually implies a computer system; node generally applies to any networked system, including access servers and routers. See also node.

hot swapping

Feature that permits the addition, replacement, or removal of cards or modules without interrupting the system power, entering console commands, or causing other software or interfaces to shut down. Sometimes called "online insertion and removal" or "power-on servicing." Removal of some cards causes interruption to some or all of the system.

hs

handshake. Sequence of messages that are exchanged between two or more network devices to ensure transmission synchronization.

I

I/O card or I/O module

input/output card or module.

ICP cell

IMA control protocol cell. IMA control protocol cell used for aligning the cells in multiple links.

IDSL

ISDN digital subscriber line. An xDSL technology that uses ISDN technology to deliver data at speeds of 128 Kbps over copper loops as long as 18,000 feet. IDSL is reserved for data communications only. Compare with ADSL, SDSL, and SHDSL. See also DSL.

IEEE

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. A U.S. publishing and standards organization responsible for many LAN standards.

IMA

inverse multiplexing over ATM. A standard protocol defined by the ATM Forum in 1997.

IMA control protocol cell

See ICP cell.

IMA group

Physical links grouped to form a higher-bandwidth logical link the rate of which is approximately the sum of the individual link rates.

industrial temperature

See ITEMP.

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers

See IEEE.

Integrated Services Digital Network

See ISDN.

intermixing

Installation of line cards with different modulation types into a single DSLAM. Intermixing rules are determined by spectral frequency overlap considerations, chassis type, and line card modulation type.

International Organization for Standardization

See ISO.

International Telecommunication Union Telecommunication Standardization Sector

See ITU-T.

inverse multiplexing

Process whereby physical links are grouped to form a higher-bandwidth logical link whose rate is approximately the sum of the individual link rates.

inverse mutliplexing over ATM

See IMA.

ISDN

Integrated Services Digital Network. Communication protocol offered by telephone companies that permits telephone networks to carry data, voice, and other source traffic.

ISDN digital subscriber line

See IDSL.

ISO

International Organization for Standardization. A voluntary, nontreaty organization founded in 1946 that is responsible for creating international standards in many areas, including computers and communications.

ITEMP

industrial temperature.

ITU-C

See xTU-C.

ITU-R

See xTU-R.

ITU-T

International Telecommunication Union Telecommunication Standardization Sector. ITU-T is the telecommunication standardization sector of ITU and is responsible for making technical recommendations about telephone and data (including fax) communications systems for service providers and suppliers.

J

jitter

In telecommunications, analog communication line distortion caused by the variation of a signal from its reference timing positions. Jitter can cause data loss, particularly at high speeds.

L

LAN

local-area network. High-speed, low-error data network covering a relatively small geographic area (up to a few thousand meters). LANs connect workstations, peripherals, terminals, and other devices in a single building or other geographically limited area. LAN standards specify cabling and signaling at the physical and data link layers of the OSI model. Ethernet, FDDI, and Token Ring are widely used LAN technologies. Compare with WAN.

laser

light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. Analog transmission device in which a suitable active material is excited by an external stimulus to produce a narrow beam of coherent light that can be modulated into pulses to carry data. Networks based on laser technology are sometimes run over SONET.

LED

light emitting diode. The lights indicate status or activity of electronic equipment.

light emitting diode

See LED.

line rate

The speed at which data is transferred over a particular line type, expressed in bps.

link

Network communications channel that consists of a circuit or transmission path and all related equipment between a sender and a receiver. In a transmission network, a link is a point-to-point connection between adjacent nodes.

local-area network

See LAN.

logical port

A logical entry to a server machine. Logical ports are mostly invisible to the user, though you may occasionally see a URL with a port number included in it. These ports do not refer to physical locations; they are set up by server administrators for network trafficking.

loopback

A diagnostic test that returns the transmitted signal to the sending device after the signal has passed through a network or across a particular link. The returned signal can then be compared to the transmitted one and the discrepancies between the two can be used to trace the fault. When you are trying to locate a faulty piece of equipment, you can repeat loopbacks, eliminating satisfactory machines, until the problem is found.

M

managed object

In network management, a network device that can be managed by a network management protocol.

Management Information Base

See MIB.

maximum rate

Maximum total data throughput allowed on a given virtual circuit. The maximum rate, which cannot exceed the media rate, represents the highest data throughput the virtual circuit will ever deliver, measured in bps or cells per second.

MIB

Management Information Base. A collection of objects that can be accessed through a network management protocol, such as SNMP or Common Management Information Protocol (CMIP).

MMF

multimode fiber. Optical fiber that supports the propagation of multiple frequencies of light. See also SMF.

modulation

Process by which the characteristics of electric signals are transformed to represent information. Types of modulation include AM, FM, and PAM. See also AM, FM, and PAM.

multicast

Single packets copied by the network and sent to a specific subset of network addresses. Compare with broadcast and unicast.

multimode fiber

See MMF.

multiplexer

Equipment that enables several data streams to be sent over a single physical line. A device for combining several channels to be carried by one line or fiber. See also chassis and DSLAM.

N

NAT

Network Address Translation. Mechanism for reducing the need for globally unique IP addresses. NAT allows an organization with addresses that are not globally unique to connect to the Internet by translating those addresses into globally routable address space.

NEBS

Network Equipment Building Systems. An extensive set of performance, quality, environmental and safety requirements developed by Bellcore (now Telcordia).

network

Collection of computers, printers, routers, switches, and other devices that can communicate with each other over some transmission medium.

Network Address Translation

See NAT.

network element

A network element is generally a combination hardware and software system that is designed primarily to perform a telecommunications service function.

Network Equipment Building Systems

See NEBS.

network management

Generic term used to describe systems or actions that help maintain, characterize, or troubleshoot a network.

network management system

See NMS.

network timing reference

See NTR.

NI-2 card

A second generation network interface card for Cisco DSLAMs. Board that works with the network software and operating systems to transmit and receive messages on a network.

NMS

network management system. A system responsible for managing at least part of a network. An NMS communicates with agents to help keep track of network statistics and resources.

node

Endpoint of a network connection or a junction common to two or more lines in a network. Nodes can be processors, controllers, or workstations. Nodes can be interconnected by links and serve as control points in the network. Node sometimes is used generically to refer to any entity that can access a network, and frequently is used interchangeably with device. See also host.

node system save file

See NSS file.

noise margin

Noise margin is the margin between the signal and noise in decibels (dB). The recommended minimum noise margin is typically 6dB. The 6dB noise margin was specified based on empirical research and the resulting algorithms to allow the best performance (line rate and reach) while maintaining the 10-7 bit-error rate. When RADSL is enabled for a DSL DMT application, the modem will train to 1) the specified rate or 2) the highest rate possible given the line conditions while maintaining a 6dB margin.

nonvolatile random-access memory

See NVRAM.

NSS file

node system save file. The file that is saved during the Save Configuration procedure or during a software download. This file is required for the Restore Configurations procedure.

NTR

Network timing reference. In DSL, NTR enables the DSLAM to provide clocking for network devices that reside beyond the CPE. The CPE must support NTR to enable this feature.

NVRAM

nonvolatile random-access memory. RAM that retains its contents when a unit is powered off.

O

OAM&P

operations, administration, management, and provisioning. Provides the facilities and the personnel required to manage a network.

OC

Optical Carrier. Series of physical protocols (OC-1, OC-2, OC-3, and so on) defined for SONET optical signal transmissions. OC signal levels put STS frames onto multimode fiber-optic line at a variety of speeds. The base rate is 51.84 Mbps (OC-1); each signal level thereafter operates at a speed divisible by that number (thus, OC-3 runs at 155.52 Mbps). See also SONET and STS-3c.

OC-n

SONET optical carrier, Level n (such as n equals 3, 12, 48, 192).

Open System Interconnection

See OSI.

operations, administration, management, and provisioning

See OAM&P.

Operations Support System

See OSS.

octal-port DMT ATU-C line card

See 8xDMT.

octal-port ITU-C line card

See 8xIDSL.

octal-port SHTU-C line card

See 8xG.SHDSL.

Optical Carrier

See OC.

optical fiber

See MMF and SMF.

OSI

Open System Interconnection. An international standardization program created by ISO and ITU-T to develop standards for data networking that facilitate multivendor equipment interoperability. See also ISO.

OSS

Operations Support System. Network management system supporting a specific management function, such as alarm surveillance and provisioning, in a carrier network.

P

PAM

pulse amplitude modulation. Modulation scheme where a continuous analog signal is represented with a series of discrete analog samples, which are then recreated as a complete signal. Sampling allows several signals to be combined on a channel that would otherwise carry only one signal. Compare with AM and FM. See also modulation.

parent

See subtending host chassis.

PEM

power entry module. A hardware module that distributes power throughout a DSLAM.

performance management

One of five categories of network management defined by ISO for the management of ISO networks. Performance management subsystems are responsible for analyzing and controlling network performance, including network throughput and error rates. See also accounting management, configuration management, fault management, and security management.

permanent virtual circuit

See PVC.

permanent virtual connection

See PVC.

permanent virtual path

See PVP.

physical port

A physical connection to a computer through which data flows. An Ethernet port, for example, is the point at which the Ethernet network cabling plugs into a computer.

plain old telephone service

See POTS.

Point-to-Point Protocol

See PPP.

port

An interface on an internetworking device (such as a DSLAM).

POTS

plain old telephone service. General term referring to the variety of telephone networks and services in place worldwide.

POTS splitter

A device that enables both a DSL data device and a standard analog device to share the same ADSL or IDSL line.

power entry module

See PEM.

PPP

Point-to-Point Protocol. The successor to SLIP that provides router-to-router and host-to-network connections over both synchronous and asynchronous circuits. See SLIP.

protocol

A formal description of messages to be exchanged and rules to be followed so that two or more systems can exchange information.

pulse amplitude modulation

See PAM.

PVC

permanent virtual circuit (or connection). A virtual circuit that is permanently established. PVCs save bandwidth associated with circuit establishment and tear down in situations where certain virtual circuits must exist all the time. Compare with SVC. See also virtual circuit.

PVP

permanent virtual path. A virtual path that consists of PVCs. See also PVC and virtual path.

Q

QoS

quality of service. A measure of performance for a transmission system that reflects its transmission quality and service availability.

quad-port flexi ATU-C line card

See 4xflexi.

quad-port STU-C line card

See 4xSDSL.

quality of service

See QoS.

R

RADIUS

Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service. A client/server security protocol created by Livingston Enterprises. Security information is stored in a central location, known as the RADIUS server.

RADSL

rate adaptive digital subscriber line. A transmission technology that supports adaptive transmission rates through the use of intelligent DSL modems, which negotiate the line rate according to line conditions and profile specifications. Once the line rate is negotiated, the rate is locked when the line trains. RADSL supports both asymmetric and symmetric applications on a single twisted pair telephone line. See ADSL.

RAM

random-access memory. Volatile memory that can be read and written by a microprocessor.

random-access memory

See RAM.

Rate Adaptive Digital Subscriber Line

See RADSL.

read-only memory

See ROM.

redundancy

In internetworking, the duplication of devices, services, or connections so that, in the event of failure, the redundant devices, services, or connections can perform the work of those that failed.

remote address

The IP address of a remote server.

Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service

See RADIUS.

remote monitoring

See RMON.

remote server

A network computer that allows a user to log on to the network from a distant location.

Request for Comments

See RFC.

RFC

Request for Comments. The document series, begun in 1969, which describes the Internet suite of protocols and related experiments. Not all RFCs describe Internet standards, but all Internet standards are written up as RFCs.

ring topology

A method of connecting devices so that a series of repeaters is connected to one another by unidirectional transmission links to form a single closed loop. Each station on the network connects to the network at a repeater. Compare with bus topology, daisy-chain topology, star topology, and tree topology.

RMON

remote monitoring. MIB agent specification described in RFC 1271 that defines functions for the remote monitoring of networked devices. The RMON specification provides numerous monitoring, problem detection, and reporting capabilities.

ROM

read-only memory. Nonvolatile memory that can be read, but not written, by the microprocessor.

router

A system responsible for making decisions about which of several paths network (or Internet) traffic will follow. The router uses a routing protocol to gain information about the network and algorithms to choose the best route based on several criteria known as "routing metrics." See also bridge and switch.

routing table

A table that is stored in a router or some other internetworking device that keeps tracks of routes to particular network destinations, and, in some cases, metrics associated with those routes. A routing table is used to select the most appropriate route to forward information.

S

scalability

Capacity of a network to keep pace with changes and growth.

SDSL

symmetrical digital subscriber line. An xDSL technology that can delivers 1.168 Mbps downstream and upstream over a single copper twisted pair. The use of a single twisted pair limits the operating range of SDSL to 10,000 feet (3048.8 meters). Compare with ADSL, IDSL, and SHDSL. See also DSL.

security management

One of five categories of network management defined by ISO for the management of ISO networks. Security management subsystems are responsible for controlling access to network resources. See also accounting management, configuration management, fault management, and performance management.

Serial Line Internet Protocol

See SLIP.

server

Node or software program that provides services to clients.

SHDSL

single-pair high-speed digital subscriber line, also known as symmetric high bit rate digital subscriber loop. A version of xDSL that includes advanced Trellis line code, a precoding mechanism, spectral shaping, equalization circuits, and forward error correction. SHDSL can deliver 2.312 Mbps of bandwidth downstream and upstream over a single copper twisted pair. Compare with ADSL, IDSL, and SDSL. See also DSL.

shielded twisted pair

A pair of insulated wires which are twisted together in a spiral manner. In addition, the pair is wrapped with metallic foil or braid, designed to insulate the pair from electromagnetic interference. Sometimes referred to as STP. See also twisted pair and unshielded twisted pair.

SHTU-C

See xTU-C.

SHTU-R

See xTU-R.

signal-to-noise ratio

See SNR.

Simple Network Management Protocol

See SNMP.

single-mode fiber

See SMF.

single-pair high-speed digital subscriber line

See SHDSL.

SLIP

Serial Line Internet Protocol. A standard protocols for point-to-point serial connections using a variation of TCP/IP. This protocol is the predecessor of PPP. See PPP and TCP.

slot

A numbered location within a chassis, which is capable of housing a card or module.

SMF

single-mode fiber. Fiber-optic cabling with a narrow core that allows light to enter only at a single angle. Such cabling has higher bandwidth than multimode fiber, but requires a light source with a narrow spectral width (for example, a laser). See also MMF.

SNMP

Simple Network Management Protocol. The network management protocol of choice for TCP/IP-based internets. SNMP provides a means to monitor and control network devices, and to manage configurations, statistics collection, performance, and security.

SNR

signal-to-noise ratio. The usable signal being transmitted divided by the noise or undesired signal. SNR is a measure of transmission quality.

SONET

Synchronous Optical Network. A standard format for transporting a wide range of digital communications services over optical fiber. SONET is characterized by standard line rates, optical interfaces, and signal formats.

source address

Address of a network device that sends data. See also destination address.

star topology

A method of connecting devices in which end points on a network are connected to a common central switch by point-to-point links. Compare with bus topology, daisy-chain topology, ring topology, and tree topology.

STM-1

Synchronous Transfer Module 1. Synchronous Digital Hierarchy standard for transmission over OC-3c optical fiber at 155.52 Mbps.

STS-3c

Synchronous Transport Signal level 3, concatenated. SONET format that specifies the frame structure for the 155.52 Mbps-lines used to carry ATM cells. See also SONET.

STU-C

See xTU-C.

STU-R

See xTU-R.

subinterface

One of a number of virtual interfaces on a single physical interface.

subnet

For routing purposes, IP networks can be divided into logical subnets by means of a subnet mask. Values below those of the mask are valid addresses on the subnet.

subnet address

Portion of an IP address that is specified as the subnetwork by the subnet mask.

subnet mask

The 32-bit address mask used in IP to indicate the bits of an IP address that are being used for the subnet address.

subrack discovery

The process by which a DSLAM node automatically searches through the interfaces and ports within that DSLAM and discovers the components that are present within that DSLAM.

subscriber

A logical entity with attributes identifying the customer that is receiving service on a particular port.

subtended configuration

Services and aggregates the data from one or more chassis into a subtending host chassis requiring only one connection to the outside network. This reduces the number of ATM edge-switch ports necessary to terminate multiple chassis.

subtended node chassis

Downstream chassis in a subtended network configuration. Also known as the child.

subtending

See subtended configuration.

subtending host chassis

Provides the data network interface for the subtended node chassis and connects to the ATM backbone. Also known as the parent.

SVC

switched virtual circuit (or connection). A virtual circuit that is dynamically established on demand and is torn down when transmission is complete. SVCs are used in situations where data transmission is sporadic. Compare with PVC. See also virtual circuit.

switch

Network device that filters, forwards, and floods frames based on the destination address of each frame. The switch operates at the data link layer of the OSI model. See also bridge and router.

switched virtual circuit

See SVC.

symmetric high bit rate digital subscriber loop

See SHDSL.

symmetrical digital subscriber line

See SDSL.

synchronous communications

Data is not sent in individual bytes, but as frames of large data blocks.

Synchronous Optical Network

See SONET.

Synchronous Transfer Module 1

See STM-1.

Synchronous Transport Signal level 3, concatenated

See STS-3c.

SYSLOG

SYSLOG allows you to log significant system information to a remote server.

T

T1

A digital carrier that is used to transmit a DS1 formatted digital signal at 1.544 Mbps through the telephone-switching network. See also E1.

T1.413

The ANSI standard for line coding and framing for full rate ADSL.

T3

A digital carrier that is used to transmit a DS3 formatted digital signal at 45 Mbps through the telephone-switching network. Compare with E3. See also DS3.

TC-PAM

trellis coded pulse amplitude modulation. Trellis coding provides forward error correction, while pulse amplitude modulation is a modulation scheme where a continuous analog signal is represented with a series of discrete analog samples.

TCP

Transmission Control Protocol. The major transport protocol in the Internet suite of protocols providing reliable, connection-oriented, full-duplex streams. See SLIP.

Telnet

The virtual terminal protocol in the Internet suite of protocols. It allows users of one host to log in to a remote host and use resources as if they were connected to a local system.

TFTP

Trivial File Transfer Protocol. A simple file transfer protocol (a simplified version of FTP) that allows files to be transferred from one computer to another over a network. TFTP does not offer password security.

tip and ring

A pair of wires that provide the electrical connection between a telephone set and the local CO. The more electrically positive side of a POTS telephone line (0 V) is the tip. Its counterpart is the ring, which is the more negative side, 52 v).

topology

Physical arrangement of network nodes and media within a networking structure.

trailer

A block of information that is transmitted at the end of a message to trace error impacts and missing blocks.

training

The handshake procedure that initiates and establishes an end-to-end xDSL connection

training mode

The mode, either standard or quick, that a DSLAM port employs when it is training to a CPE. The training mode uses RADSL technology to adjust line speed according to noise conditions on the transmission line.

Transmission Control Protocol

See TCP.

trap

Message sent by SNMP agent to an NMS, a console, or a terminal to indicate the occurrence of a significant event, such as a specifically defined condition or a threshold that was reached. See also alarm and event.

tree topology

A method of connecting devices that is similar to a bus topology, except that tree networks can contain branches with multiple nodes. Transmissions from a station propagate the length of the medium and are received by all other stations. Compare with bus topology, daisy-chain topology, ring topology, and star topology.

trellis coded pulse amplitude modulation

See TC-PAM.

trellis encoding

A channel coding technique which provides forward error correction capability.

Trivial File Transfer Protocol

See TFTP.

twisted pair

Two insulated copper wires twisted together with the twists or lays varied in length to reduce potential signal interference between the pairs.

U

UBR

unspecified bit rate. A QoS class defined by the ATM Forum for ATM networks. UBR allows any amount of data up to a specified maximum to be sent across the network but there are no guarantees in terms of cell loss rate and delay. Compare with ABR, CBR, and VBR.

UDP

User Datagram Protocol. A connectionless transport protocol that runs on top of the TCP/IP. UDP, like TCP, uses IP for delivery; however, unlike TCP, UDP provides for exchange of datagrams without acknowledgments or guaranteed delivery. This protocol is the best suited for small, independent requests, such as requesting a MIB value from an SNMP agent, in which setting up a connection would take more time than sending the data.

UL

Underwriters Laboratories. A private organization that tests and certifies electrical components and devices against rigorous safety standards. A UL Listing Mark on a product means that representative samples of the product have been tested and evaluated against nationally recognized safety standards with regard to fire, electric shock, and other related safety hazards, and have met the standards.

Underwriters Laboratories

See UL.

UNI

User-Network Interface.

UNI signaling

User-Network Interface signaling for ATM communications.

unicast

Message sent to a single network destination. Compare with broadcast and multicast.

unshielded twisted pair

Four-pair wire medium used in a variety of networks. Sometimes referred to as UTP. See also shielded twisted pair and twisted pair.

unspecified bit rate

See UBR.

upstream

Data that is coming from the subscriber lines to the NI-2 card. See also downstream.

User-Network Interface

See UNI.

User Datagram Protocol

See UDP.

V

variable bit rate

See VBR.

VBR

variable bit rate. A QoS defined by the ATM Forum for ATM networks. VBR is subdivided into a real time (rt) class and non-real time (nrt) class. VBR-rt is used for connections in which there is a fixed timing relationship between samples. VBR-nrt is used for connections in which there is no fixed timing relationship between samples but that still need a guaranteed QoS. Compare with ABR, CBR, and UBR.

VCC

virtual channel connection. A logical circuit, made up of links, that carries data between two endpoints in an ATM network. It is sometimes called a virtual circuit connection. See also VCI and VPI.

VCI

virtual channel identifier. A 16-bit field in the header of an ATM cell. The VCI, together with the VPI, is used to identify the next destination of a cell as it passes through to the ATM switch. It is sometimes called virtual circuit identifier. See also VPI.

virtual channel connection

See VCC.

virtual channel identifier

See VCI.

virtual circuit

A logical circuit created to ensure reliable communication between two network devices. A virtual circuit is defined by a VPI/VCI pair and can be either PVC or SVC. In ATM, a virtual circuit is called a virtual channel. See also PVC, SVC, VCI, and VPI.

virtual circuit connection

See VCC.

virtual circuit identifier

See VCI.

virtual connection

In ATM, a connection between end users that has a defined route and endpoints. See also PVC and SVC.

virtual path

A logical grouping of virtual circuits that connect two sites. One of two types of ATM circuits identified by a VPI. A virtual path is a bundle of virtual circuits, all of which are switched across a network based on a common VPI. See also VPI.

virtual path identifier

See VPI.

VPI

virtual path identifier. An 8-bit field in the header of an ATM cell. The VPI, together with the VCI, is used to identify the next destination of a cell as it passes through the network. See also VCI.

W

WAN

wide-area network. A data communications network that serves users across a broad geographic area and often uses transmission devices provided by common carriers. Compare with LAN.

WAN Interface Card

See WIC.

WIC

WAN Interface Card. A WIC card plugs into the card slot of a router and allows DSL use on routers. Each WIC acts as a CPE and can handle the amount of data available depending on the line conditions and the DSL profile assigned to the port.

wide-area network

See WAN.

X

xDSL

Generic term used to refer to digital subscriber line equipment and services, including ADSL, IDSL, SDSL, and SHDSL. All are digital technologies that provide high bandwidth over existing copper infrastructure provided by the telephone companies.

xDSL Transmission Unit—central office

See xTU-C.

xDSL Transmission Unit—remote

See xTU-R.

xTU-C

xDSL Transmission Unit—central office. A hardware device that supports xDSL communication and that is placed in the CO. The xTU-C has a matching unit on the subscriber premise in the form of an xTU-R. The two units, in combination, support a high data rate over UTP copper cable local loops. Examples of xTU-Cs are ATU-C, ITU-C, STU-C, and SHTU-C.

xTU-R

xDSL Transmission Unit—remote. A hardware device that supports xDSL communication and that is placed in the customer's premise. The xTU-R has a matching unit in the carrier's CO in the form of an xTU-C. The two units, in combination, support a high data rate over UTP copper cable local loops. Examples of xTU-Rs are ATU-R, ITU-R, STU-R, and SHTU-R.