Packet-optical transport brings the advantages of Sonet/SDH, DWDM, and packet-based networks, delivering a scalable and resilient transport infrastructure. Most carriers are expected to shift to packet-optical transport over the next five years. Packet-optical transport platforms (P-OTP) will also be widely used in mobile backhaul applications, a key investment area for carriers driving LTE-based 4G services.
This report details and analyzes integrated packet-optical devices and OTN framer/mapper devices and technologies, identifying the key requirements and highlighting the advantages they hold for equipment manufacturers. It also surveys component availability, reviewing features, performance, and flexibility. The report covers more than 30 devices and profiles 12 vendors in this important market.