How do you evaluate and compare different SDH network equipment and vendors?

1 Compatibility and interoperability

SDH network equipment should be compatible and interoperable with the existing network infrastructure, protocols, and standards. You should check the specifications and certifications of the equipment and vendors to ensure they support the required SDH levels, rates, interfaces, and formats. You should also verify that the equipment and vendors can interwork with other SDH or non-SDH devices and systems in your network, such as Ethernet, ATM, or SONET.

2 Functionality and performance

SDH network equipment should provide the functionality and performance that meet your network requirements and objectives. You should evaluate the features and capabilities of the equipment and vendors in terms of data transmission, multiplexing, switching, protection, restoration, management, and monitoring. You should also assess the performance of the equipment and vendors in terms of reliability, availability, scalability, efficiency, and quality of service.

3 Cost and value

SDH network equipment should offer a reasonable cost and value proposition for your network budget and expectations. You should compare the prices and benefits of the equipment and vendors in terms of initial investment, operational expenses, maintenance costs, and lifecycle costs. You should also consider the value-added services and support that the equipment and vendors provide, such as warranty, training, updates, upgrades, and troubleshooting.

4 Reviews and references

SDH network equipment should have positive reviews and references from other customers and experts in the field. You should research the reputation and feedback of the equipment and vendors from various sources, such as online reviews, ratings, testimonials, case studies, and industry reports. You should also contact some of the previous or current clients of the equipment and vendors to ask about their experiences, satisfaction, and recommendations.

5 Trials and demos

SDH network equipment should be tested and demonstrated before making a final decision. You should request trials and demos of the equipment and vendors to see how they work in your network environment, conditions, and scenarios. You should also evaluate the ease of use, installation, configuration, integration, and operation of the equipment and vendors during the trials and demos.

6 Future-proofing and innovation

SDH network equipment should be future-proof and innovative to cope with the changing network demands and challenges. You should look for the equipment and vendors that offer flexibility, adaptability, and scalability to accommodate different network sizes, topologies, architectures, and technologies. You should also look for the equipment and vendors that invest in research and development, and deliver new features, functions, and solutions to enhance your network performance and security.