What Is This Tool?
This converter allows users to convert data transfer rates from STS12 (signal), a SONET synchronous line rate, to OC768, a high-capacity optical carrier rate in the SONET hierarchy. It helps network professionals understand equivalent capacities for aggregation and backbone transport.
How to Use This Tool?
-
Enter the value in STS12 (signal) units you wish to convert
-
Select OC768 as the target unit for conversion
-
Click the convert button to see the equivalent OC768 value
-
Use the results to aid in network planning and capacity aggregation
Key Features
-
Converts data transfer rates between STS12 (signal) and OC768 units
-
Supports telecommunications and ISP network infrastructure scenarios
-
Browser-based and easy to use for quick conversions
-
Provides clear mappings within SONET hierarchical levels
-
Offers practical examples demonstrating usage
Examples
-
10 STS12 (signal) converts to 0.15625 OC768
-
64 STS12 (signal) equals exactly 1 OC768
-
Use these examples to interpret data rates at different SONET hierarchy levels
Common Use Cases
-
Planning carrier or ISP backbone and metro fiber links using OC-12/STS-12
-
Transporting framed payloads such as ATM, POS, or Ethernet over SONET
-
Implementing protected high-speed circuits in SONET ring architectures
-
Aggregating multiple lower rate channels into high-capacity backbone transport
-
Using long-haul and metro DWDM systems multiplexing OC-768 channels
Tips & Best Practices
-
Interpret conversions as theoretical nominal rates without overhead adjustments
-
Verify network equipment capabilities to support the calculated line rates
-
Use the tool as a guide for backbone and metro network capacity planning
-
Consider network design that includes automatic failover in SONET rings
-
Understand the SONET hierarchy to leverage conversions effectively
Limitations
-
Assumes ideal line rates without protocol overhead or equipment-specific differences
-
Does not account for actual throughput variations due to error correction
-
Conversion reflects theoretical values, not measured live network speeds
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What does 1 STS12 (signal) represent in terms of OC768?
-
1 STS12 (signal) equals 0.015625 OC768, representing its relative data transfer capacity in the SONET hierarchy.
-
Where is this conversion typically used?
-
It's commonly used in telecommunications, ISP infrastructures, metro and long-haul fiber networks, and carrier-grade backbone links.
-
Does the conversion consider network overhead?
-
No, the calculation assumes ideal line rates and does not account for protocol overhead or equipment-specific factors.
Key Terminology
-
STS12 (signal)
-
A SONET synchronous transport signal at 622.08 Mbit/s used for multiplexed digital payload transport in synchronous optical networks.
-
OC768
-
An optical carrier rate in SONET at about 39.8 Gbit/s, used for high-capacity backbone fiber-optic links.
-
SONET
-
Synchronous Optical Network, a standardized digital communication protocol used to transmit multiple digital bit streams over optical fiber.