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B-channel (bearer channel)

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B-channel (bearer channel)

In the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), the B-channel is the channel that carries the main data. (The "B" stands for "bearer" channel.)

In ISDN, there are two levels of service: the Basic Rate Interface, intended for the home and small enterprise, and the Primary Rate Interface, for larger users. Both rates include a number of B- (bearer) channels and a D-channel. The B-channels carry data, voice, and other services. The D-channel carries control and signaling information.

The Basic Rate Interface consists of two 64 Kbps B-channels and one 16 Kbps D-channel. Thus, a Basic Rate Interface user can have up to 128 Kbps service. The Primary Rate Interface consists of 23 B-channels and one 64 Kpbs D-channel in the United States or 30 B-channels and 1 D-channel in Europe.

Related glossary terms: gigapop (gigabit point-of-presence), NBMA (non-broadcast multiple access), ATU-R (ADSL Terminal Unit - Remote), ring, passive FTP, dark fiber, Router, satellite news gathering (SNG), plane (in networking), bus network

This was last updated in September 2005

Posted by: Margaret Rouse

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