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What’s The Difference Between PSTN and ISDN?

What's The Difference Between PSTN and ISDN - NeoDove

Have you ever wondered what makes your phone calls sound so clear, or why your internet connection can be super speedy? 

Well, it all comes down to the technology behind it. 

In this article, we’re going to dive into the world of PSTN vs ISDN and uncover the key differences between them. 

You see, PSTN and ISDN may sound like tech jargon, but understanding them can help you make better choices when it comes to communication. 

So, let’s break it down and discover the real deal behind the difference between PSTN and ISDN!

 

What is PSTN?

Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is a communication system that has been used for over a century. PSTN is used to connect telephone calls between different locations.

In fact, the PSTN network has a vast network of copper wires and switching centers to connect people around the world.

What is PSTN phone system - NeoDove

When you make a call using a traditional landline phone, your voice is converted into analog signals. These signals then travel through the PSTN network to reach the other person’s phone. Public Switched Telephone Network systems use various technologies to ensure that the call is reliable, and your sound quality is clear.

However, with the advent of digital technologies, PSTN is becoming less popular. Furthermore, many countries are phasing it out in favor of more modern communication networks such as ISDN and VoIP. Nevertheless, Public Switched Telephone Network systems continue to play an essential role in connecting people worldwide. As such, many people still rely on it for their communication needs.

Also Read: 5 Key Benefits of Switching to VoIP Phone Systems

 

What is ISDN?

Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) is a digital communication network that was developed in the 1980s. It was designed as an upgrade to the traditional PSTN system.

What is ISDN - NeoDove

The difference between PSTN and ISDN is that ISDN is able to provide users with faster data transmission and better call quality.

Moreover, ISDN uses digital signals to transmit data, which is more reliable. As such, it can handle multiple calls simultaneously. This makes it ideal for businesses that need to handle a large volume of calls.

Additionally, Integrated Services Digital Network also comes with a feature called “channel bonding”. This allows two or more ISDN lines to be combined to increase the data transmission rate. This acts as a significant advantage for businesses that need to transfer large amounts of data quickly.

For these reasons, Integrated Services Digital Network is considered a more modern and efficient communication network that offers several advantages over PSTN. It is mainly used in businesses and organizations that require a reliable and fast communication network.

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The Difference between PSTN and ISDN Systems

If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between Public Switched Telephone Network and Integrated Services Digital Network systems, you’ve come to the right place. 

When it comes to PSTN vs ISDN, they’re two communication systems that have been around for decades. However, they have significant differences that are worth exploring.

Top 7 Differences between PSTN and ISDN Systems - NeoDove

In this section, we’ll now take a look at the difference between PSTN and ISDN systems:

1) Technology Used

The biggest difference between PSTN and ISDN is the technology they use. PSTN uses analog technology to transmit voice data, while ISDN uses digital technology. 

PSTN networks use copper wires to transmit signals. This means that the quality of the call can be affected by various factors, such as distance and interference. Alternatively, ISDN uses digital signals, which are less affected by interference and can provide better-quality calls.

Technology Tip

ISDN uses digital tech for clearer calls, while PSTN relies on analog, which can be less reliable.

2) Speed

Another major difference when it comes to PSTN vs ISDN is the speed of communication. 

PSTN networks have limited bandwidth, which means that they can only transmit limited amounts of data at a time. This can result in slow data transfer rates, making it unsuitable for modern applications that require high-speed data transfer. 

Meanwhile, ISDN can transmit data at much higher speeds. This makes it ideal if you use applications such as video conferencing and multimedia messaging.

Speed Tip

ISDN offers high-speed data transfer, ideal for video calls, while PSTN may be slower due to limited bandwidth.

3) Flexibility

ISDN is more flexible than PSTN because it can provide both voice and data services over the same line. This means that you can make a phone call while simultaneously using the internet or transferring data. 

However, PSTN can only provide voice services and requires a separate line for data services.

Flexibility Tip

ISDN serves voice and data on one line, multitasking like a pro, while PSTN demands separate lines for data.

4) Availability

PSTN is widely available and almost every household has a telephone connection that uses PSTN technology. 

When it comes to PSTN vs ISDN, ISDN is not as widely available and may require additional infrastructure to use it. This means that ISDN may not be available in remote or rural areas where the infrastructure is not in place.

Availability Tip

PSTN is widely available, even in remote areas, whereas ISDN may require additional infrastructure.

5) Bandwidth

PSTN is a narrowband network that can only transmit a limited amount of data per second. 

However, when you compare PSTN vs ISDN, ISDN is a broadband network that can transmit much more data per second. This is definitely more than enough for most of your applications.

Bandwidth Tip

ISDN has more data capacity (up to 128 kbps), making it versatile, while PSTN is narrower in bandwidth.

6) Cost

Another notable difference between PSTN and ISDN is that PSTN is generally less expensive than ISDN. It is an older technology that has been around for a long time and is widely available. 

However, ISDN is a newer technology that is not as widely available. As such, it is more expensive for you to install and maintain.

Cost Tip

PSTN tends to be more cost-effective due to its ubiquity, while ISDN installation and upkeep can be pricier.

7) Quality of Service

Lastly, Integrated Services Digital Network provides a higher quality of service than PSTN. This is because it is a digital network and can provide a more reliable and consistent signal. 

The difference between PSTN and ISDN is that PSTN is an analog network that is easily susceptible to interference and noise.

Quality Tip

ISDN’s digital nature provides a more reliable signal, while PSTN’s analog system can suffer from interference and noise.

Also Read: Say Goodbye to PSTN: Switch to VoIP!

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    Conclusion

    Overall, when it comes to PSTN vs ISDN, we’ve learnt that they’re two different communication systems with their own unique features and benefits. Public Switched Telephone Networks have been around for decades. But, it is becoming outdated and has limitations in terms of data transmission and call quality. 

    On the other hand, Integrated Services Digital Network is a newer system that offers faster data transmission and better call quality. This makes it an attractive option for businesses and individuals who need reliable communication services.

    While PSTN still has its uses, systems like ISDN and VoIP are the future of communication. Moreover, it’s becoming more and more important to keep up with the demands of modern communication.

    So, if you’re a business owner looking to upgrade your communication system, it’s worth considering the benefits of PSTN vs ISDN. With its various benefits, ISDN is the way to go for anyone looking for top-notch communication services.

    Why your business should choose ISDN over PSTN - NeoDove

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    ISDN uses PSTN to function. However, it digitizes the traditional network system so that it can provide multiple lines for your business. Alongside this, ISDN is also able to offer higher call quality, video as well as various other additional features.

    A PSTN is used by users worldwide in telephone lines, switching centers, cellular networks, satellites, fiber optic cables, etc. It allows users to make as well as receive landline calls.

    ISDN provides users with high-speed and high-quality channels for communication. The two primary types of ISDN networks are Basic Rate Interface (BRI) and Primary Rate Interface (PRI).

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