question on channelized versus clear-channel ds3

[mrouch]

We are in the process of switching from multiple T1 circuits to a single channelized ds3. Currently all our T1s are plugged into one Cisco 3661 router using multple t1 serial interfaces and external t1 csu/dsus. Our telco made a point of stating that our new ds3 will be channelized, not clear-channel. The information I have found so far indicates that there are no channelized ds3 cards for the 3600 series router. Is it possible to use the 3661 with a hssi serial card (or equivalent) and an external t3/e3 csu/dsu in this situation? If yes, could you point me to a configuration example? If no, why not?

[mvalentine]

you could use an external M13 to break out the T1's and then send clear channel T1's to your router

[mrouch]

So all the equipment I would need would be an M13 (That's and AdTran DS3 multiplexer, yes?) and the appropriate cables to plug into the v.35 serial ports? And the individual serial interfaces on the 3661 would be configured with an encapsulation such as hdlc or ppp? So many questions.

[mvalentine]

Yes, you could use an adtran ds3 mux and also reuse your existing serial router ports with any encapsulation you want. you might not even need to buy new cables

[mvalentine · Accepted solution]

i forgot to tell you to but make sure the mux supports a channelized network side interface, if not you'll have to buy a 'true' m13, adtran makes these as well. i say this because i know adtran makes a ds3 mux that can aggregate t1's but network side is unchannelized, which won't work for you

[mrouch]

Excellent information, thank you.

[pottebm]

I am trying to connect two routers across a DS-3 using T1s off an Adtran MX2800 (M13) mux on each end. I am coming off the mux with Cat-5 cables into a WIC-1DSU-T1 card. My amber alarm light won't go off even thought the mux for those T1 ports shows green.

Any thoughts?