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A T3 is a dedicated high-speed line that can be used for voice or data. The T3 uses digital signal and is transmitted over fiber or copper. It transmits data at a high speed - 43.232 Mbps. This speed is greater than most modems.

A T3 is equivalent to 28 T1s. Each T1 is made up of 24 channels that can be used for voice or data. The T1 terminates into the telephone room on a jack called a smart jack. From there you can extend the circuit into the telephone or data equipment with a simple fiber cable. Each T1 uses 2 pair fiber connections to bring all channels to you. Therefore, the space requirements for T1 lines are much less than the equivalent amount of standard copper trunks would take up.

Each T1 provides 24 channels, which are then shared among the users. The T1 works efficiently to provide flexible channels as needed. When a channel is free it is available to any user. The typical T1 can accommodate between 50 and 100 users comfortably. More phone-intense applications such as call centers will require additional T1s. If you have significant need, a T3 is the next logical choice. It provides an extended bandwidth that will easily accommodate all applications.

Many people are familiar with a DSL or digital subscriber line. The DSL is a slower circuit, which is not dedicated. It typically runs over your current telephone line and is mainly used for individual service. The T1 circuit is a dedicated circuit used specifically by businesses. The speed of the T1 is much faster than the DSL allowing for more advanced features and connections. The DSL is not a viable option for a large company or organization. Instead, a T1 is the preferred telecommunication method for businesses.

Larger organizations such as those with a campus environment may need more than one T1. For these situations there is the T3. It can be used for voice, data or both, depending on how it is configured. To determine your needs you should first determine your current usage for both voice communications as well as data communications. Next, be sure to understand what data applications you currently use as well as those that your company would like to use given the proper bandwidth. Then, think about future growth, not only specific growth of the company but also the growth of applications that may become available in the future.

A T3 may seem expensive however it is always a less expensive choice than using a comparable amount of typical standard copper trunks. The costs of T1s and T3s have actually been decreasing in the past several years. This is due in part to the fact that most central office locations are now upgraded to be able to supply these services. Another factor is that there is now much competition with many providers offering these services. Installation costs may be steep but you should expect to see a good return on your investment easily within a year.

Article written by Van Theodorou, for a free consultation to see if you need a T3 voice or internet service and learn more on the T3 at his T3 learning center.