What Is This Tool?
This converter transforms data transfer rates measured in modem (28.8k) units into Virtual Tributary 2 (payload) units. It helps bridge legacy dial-up modem throughput with contemporary optical network channel rates used in SONET/SDH systems.
How to Use This Tool?
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Input the desired value measured in modem (28.8k) units.
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Select 'modem (28.8k)' as the source unit.
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Choose 'Virtual Tributary 2 (payload)' as the target unit.
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Click convert to see the equivalent data transfer rate in VT2 payload units.
Key Features
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Converts from the throughput of a 28.8 kilobits per second modem to Virtual Tributary 2 payload units.
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Supports understanding of legacy modem speed in terms of standardized SONET/SDH virtual tributary capacity.
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Provides quick calculations for integration of low-rate TDM circuits into higher-rate optical networks.
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Browser-based and easy to use with no installation required.
Examples
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10 Modem (28.8k) equals 0.140625 Virtual Tributary 2 (payload).
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50 Modem (28.8k) converts to 0.703125 Virtual Tributary 2 (payload).
Common Use Cases
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Estimating download times or throughput on legacy dial-up connections.
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Comparing legacy modem speeds with modern transport unit rates.
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Mapping legacy TDM voice or data circuits into SONET/SDH optical backbones.
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Supporting telecom network design involving integration of old and new communication standards.
Tips & Best Practices
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Understand that modem (28.8k) speeds are significantly lower than VT2 channel capacity, leading to small fractional conversions.
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Use the tool for theoretical mapping rather than precise accounting of network overhead or protocol efficiencies.
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Apply conversions when planning migration of legacy services to SONET/SDH networks.
Limitations
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Conversion shows very small fractional VT2 payloads due to large difference in scale between modem and VT2 rates.
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Assumes constant bit rate without accounting for overhead, framing, or transmission inefficiencies.
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Does not represent actual throughput under real-world network conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does modem (28.8k) represent?
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It refers to a data transfer speed of approximately 28,800 bits per second, typical for a 28.8k dial-up modem over analog telephone lines.
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What is Virtual Tributary 2 (payload)?
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A VT2 payload is a SONET/SDH virtual tributary sized to carry a 2.048 Mb/s PDH/E1 channel, used to transport lower-rate signals within higher-rate optical networks.
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Why are the converted values so small?
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Because modem (28.8k) speeds are much lower than the 2.048 Mb/s capacity of a VT2 payload, conversion results in small fractional values.
Key Terminology
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Modem (28.8k)
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An informal term for a data rate of 28.8 kilobits per second typical of a 28.8k dial-up modem transmitting over analog telephone lines.
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Virtual Tributary 2 (payload)
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A SONET/SDH virtual tributary unit designed to carry a 2.048 Mb/s PDH/E1 channel, enabling multiplexing of lower-rate signals into higher-rate optical frames.
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SONET/SDH
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Synchronous Optical Networking/Synchronous Digital Hierarchy, standards for high-speed optical fiber transport networks.