With the spread of IP/Ethernet, the main traffic that a network operator handles is packets.
However, with IP/Ethernet, it is difficult to perform an end-to-end QoS guarantee and fault switchover that require path management for the entire network and the management of bandwidth and other resources. A failure in the route control function in the router/switch could affect the entire network, a network operability concern for a system that is a carrier-grade system.

The AMN1700-series packet transport system uses the Multi Protocol Label Switching - Transport Profile (MPLS-TP) that is being standardized in ITU-T and IETF.
By implementing SDH-grade maintenance, operating and administration functions, this manageable network reduces network operators' OPEX and CAPEX with the following four features:

Separation of the control plane and the data plane provides the availability and scalability that a transport system requires. Because of the separation, manageable path-managed network operation that prevents a device failure from affecting the entire network can be implemented.
By setting protection paths, protection switching is performed automatically without the intervention of the control plane, assuring system recovery from a failure.

The QoS function is a key feature that integrates various communication services into a single packet-based network. Even in an environment in which different service quality levels, from leased-line to best-effort, are required, an advanced QoS function assures the quality of communication that each service needs to enable transport systems to be integrated.

A wealth of OAM (Operation, Administration and Maintenance) functions, such as per-path connection monitoring, fault localization, testing, and fast path switching, are supported. As a result, sophisticated OAM equivalent to that found in a traditional transport system can be implemented.

Circuit emulation integrates non-packet communication services into the packet-switched network. The circuit emulation service (CES) aggregates legacy (SDH/ATM) services and Ethernet service.

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