The adoption of Internet Protocol (IP) version 6 (IPv6) is a key initiative for network operators, and the transition will require solutions and technologies that are interoperable. Now Symmetricom has announced the successful completion of tests using IPv6 that demonstrate interoperability between network elements, Long-Term-Evolution (LTE) eNode Bs, and synchronization master clocks. The testing utilized Symmetricom's grandmaster clock, which was connected to Alcatel-Lucent's switches, routers, and LTE base stations.
Interoperability and consistent timekeeping are critical as network operators transition services to an IPv6 infrastructure. In addition to technology upgrades, operators will likely face a period of overlap, where both IPv6 and IP version 4 (IPv4) will require support. Symmetricom already provides IPv6-enabled 1588 grandmasters and a next generation network (NGN) -ready platform that can adapt to different network topologies.
Alcatel-Lucent is a member of Symmetricom's SyncWorld Ecosystem Program, which launched in March 2011. This program supports interoperability, promoting a standards-based approach to support precise timing and synchronization requirements for communications networks. Membership requires interoperability testing between Symmetricom and the program members to ensure delivery of precise timing and synchronization services across the network.