2.5 Gbps Technology Implemented in the Czech National Research Network TEN-155 CZ

The TEN-155 CZ Czech National Research Network, operated by CESNET, started using a new optical data link at a capacity of 2.5 Gbps in January 2000. This link between the two most important TEN-155 CZ backbone nodes, Prague and Brno, has been set up in co-operation with MERO CR, a. s. It will be used for the TCP/IP traffic only.

Features and parameters of this new network technology are being tested; CESNET expects this test phase to finish within the second quarter of 2000. From the network topology point of view, this new data link based on the Packet over SONET technology is installed in parallel to the current 155 Mbps ATM backbone link which connects two central points of the twin-star TEN-155 CZ topology.

Cisco GSR 12000 and Catalyst 2948G

The 2.5 Gbps link interconnects two CISCO 12000 Gigaswitch routers with OC-48 cards. Three signal regenerators are necessary for the 320 kilometre long optical line.

By putting this 2.5 Gbps link into operation, the TEN-155 CZ became one of several European National Research Networks using these high-capacity links.

CESNET z. s. p. o. (Association of Legal Entities) was established in March 1996 as an association of all Czech Universities and the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic to build and operate the Czech National Research Network. Nowadays, CESNET is operating the TEN-155 CZ backbone network which connects nine Points of Presence with ATM 34 Mbps and 155 Mbps links.

CESNET is a member of the QUANTUM project consortium which operates and develops the TEN-155 backbone network interconnecting various European National Research Networks. Further development of this pan-european infrastructure is planned within the new European Commission supported project which should supersede the QUANTUM project.

The co-operation between CESNET and U. S. research networks started in October 1999 after the Memorandum of Understanding between CESNET and UCAID (University Corporation for Advanced Internet Development) was signed.