Keywords:
difference, T1, E1, channel, frame, superframe, extended, ESF, SF, D4, CRC-4, CAS,
multiframe, CCS, RBS, robbed bit, AIS, RAI, DMA
APPLICATION NOTE 590
MAXIM TELECOMMUNICATIONS FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS
Abstract: This set of FAQs discusses answers to general communication questions as well as Maxim
device-specific questions.
This set of FAQs is designed to address some of the more common questions that may arise when using
Maxim telecommunication devices in new or existing designs. The questions are divided into different
categories based on specific information areas. Because some devices like the DS2155 have a
combination of features, it is possible that questions will span multiple categories.
Revision: June 25, 2009
Section 1. General Telecommunication Questions
1. In T1, what is the difference between superframe (SF)/D4 and extended superframe (ESF)?
2. What is the difference between T1 and E1?
3. What is the difference between T1 and J1?
4. What is SLC-96 and how does it relate to T1?
5. How are frames, channel time slots, and bits numbered in T1 and E1?
6. What are the differences between robbed-bit signaling (RBS), channel-associated signaling (CAS),
and common-channel signaling (CCS)?
7. What are the red, blue, and yellow alarms in a T1 system?
8. What are the alarm indication signal (AIS), remote alarm indication (RAI), and distant multiframe
alarm (DMA) in an E1 system?
9. What is the difference between AMI, B8ZS, and HDB3?
10. What are the names of the regulatory bodies that govern the requirements for network interface line
protection?
11. What is the difference between jitter and wander?
12. What standards bodies govern telecommunications equipment compliance?
13. When the boundary scan is not used, what will be the pin conditions for the JTAG test access pins?
14. For a universal T1/E1 interface on the customer side, do T1/E1 service providers expect customer
equipment to provide a connection between the Tx and Rx pairs through the transformer center
taps? Or, can the T1/E1 service provider ignore this connection and leave it out of the design?
15. What is the difference between channelized and unchannelized T1?
16. Can I modify the codes of Maxim telecommunication drivers?
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