Communication is the essential ingredient and backbone of all aspects of the world. From the stone age to the modern day, communication has gone through a sea change.
From symbols to mobile, we have come a long way. Gone are the days when we dialled manual telephones to get in touch with our loved ones.
With the evolution of networks and technology, we can now video call, send and receive messages, documents, and photographs at the click of a button. During the manual telephone age, the network was analog(continuous electrical signals).
As it moved through many switches, the quality of the voice got worse.
In a network, the switch manages the flow of data from one device to another. ISDN(Integrated Services Digital Network) and PSTN(Public Switched Telephone Network) are networks outlined to transmit data and voice over phones.
Key Takeaways
- ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) transmits voice and data over digital lines, while PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) primarily carries analog voice signals.
- ISDN provides higher call quality, faster connection speeds, and additional features compared to PSTN.
- PSTN is the traditional phone system, whereas ISDN represents a more advanced, digital alternative.
ISDN vs PSTN
ISDN stands for Integrated Services Digital Network and is a type of telecommunications network that uses digital technology to transmit voice, data, and video signals over a dedicated line. PSTN stands for Public Switched Telephone Network and is the traditional telecommunications network that uses analog technology to transmit voice signals over a dedicated line.
The ISDN design is incorporated to carry voice or any data you want to the end user. It provides a single interface(both hardware and communication)to connect to the phone, fax, computer, or video phone.
ISDN was considered the future of a fast service network. Using fibre was expensive. The usage of copper slowed the network. It depleted the quality received by the end-user.
PSTN system has been in use since the year 1800. This platform has been a reliable source of communication for ages with the help of underground copper wires.
PSTN is the worldwide assemblage of the inter-connected voice-oriented telephone network, and it consists of all the switched telephone operated locally or internationally around the world. The network provides the infrastructure for public telecommunication.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | ISDN | PSTN |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Form | Integrated Services Digital Network. It is digital | Public Switched Telephone Network. It is analog in nature. |
| Connection | ISDN can run 2,10,20,30 channels in a single time. | Only a single line can be used. |
| Transmission | It is a circuit-switched network and transfers data and voice. | It transfers only voice. |
| Companies | ISDN is used by big companies. | PSTN is used by small companies. |
| Speed | We can make faster calls. | No possibility of this option. |
What is ISDN?
With the failure of the analog system in providing reliable long-distance connections, there was an urgent of an alternative source. By the year 1960, there was a gradual shift to the packet-based digital system.
In 1988, the UN-based International Telecommunication Union(ITU) recommended utilizing the ISDN network system to deliver data.
The innovation improved the quality of the communication network. It was the initiative of manufacturing giants like Motorola and USRobotics to ease the transition of networking. This launched ISDN is a big picture in the US, providing consumers with better internet access and pricing.
The utilization of ISDN is for high-speed internet options. To set up an ISDN network, you must take the help of the Internet Service Provider(ISP). The ISDN requires a traditional Plain Old Telephone Service(POTS) line and an accessible telephone number.
We must ensure both the POTS and the telephone number are in working condition. Now it is all set up for voice and data communication.
There are mainly two types of ISDN. A Basic rate interface (BRI) is a type of ISDN mostly used for telephone services. It is used in residential areas or small businesses.
Primary rate interface (PRI) is an ISDN configuration used for multiple digital zero services. PRI is used in huge companies and enterprises.
What is PSTN?
The commercialization of the telephone began in the year 1876. The telephones had to be wired in pairs for usage as there was no network connection. It limited the utility of this marvellous invention.
There was an expansion of the network by 1900, as the number of telephone users increased. It is when PSTN gained importance using analog signals.
By 1960 manual switching was gradually being replaced by digital voice signals. It gave an advantage to the same wire shared by other phone calls.
PSTN is Public Switched Telephone Network. It is a global system that comprises public telephone networks. It is a circuit-switched network which means when we call, the communication gets established between two points.
The analog data is transferred through the copper wires for the conversation to happen.
PSTN is always associated with the usage of copper wiring, and the latest infrastructure utilizes fibre optic cables to replace the copper wiring. The PSTN phone line uses traditional dialling to get connected to the Internet on the computer.
Main Differences Between ISDN and PSTN
- ISDN means Integrated Services Digital Network is a digital network, and larger companies work with ISDN. PSTN means Public Switched Telephone Network is an analog network. Small companies work with PSTN.
- ISDN can parallelly run 2,10,20, or 30 channels in a single line. PSTN can run a single line for a firm
- ISDN is a circuit-switched telephone network and it digitally transmits both voice and data. It provides better voice quality. PSTN digitally transfers voice data, and it does not exploit the advantages of broadband.
- ISDN is multifaceted, can choose to use two connections simultaneously, like telephone and fax. PSTN is single-faced and has only one connection.
- ISDN can help in making faster calls. PSTN has no such options to make faster calls.
- https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/184877/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0169755298002645
Last Updated : 08 August, 2023
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Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.
The captivating historical context provided for both ISDN and PSTN adds depth to the article. Understanding their evolution over time helps us appreciate the strides made in communication networks.
Well said, Owen. The narrative style of presenting historical details makes the article engaging while delivering valuable information about ISDN and PSTN.
The detailed comparison between ISDN and PSTN is very informative, especially for someone working in the telecommunications industry. This article provides a comprehensive understanding of both networks.
Absolutely, Dylan. The comparison table makes it easy to grasp the key differences between ISDN and PSTN. Great resource for anyone seeking this information.
The article provides a comprehensive comparison of ISDN and PSTN, shedding light on their differences and applications. It’s a must-read for anyone wanting to delve into the complexities of communication networks.
I found the historical details about the evolution of communication networks fascinating. It’s amazing how far we’ve come from analog voice signals to integrated digital networks.
I completely agree. The information provided in the article is insightful and highlights the significant advancements made in the field of communication technology.
The article’s detailed comparison of ISDN and PSTN is quite enlightening. The clear explanation of their differences and how they cater to different company sizes provides valuable insights for anyone interested in the topic.
Absolutely, Riley. The article effectively outlines the main differences and applications of ISDN and PSTN, making it accessible to readers with varying levels of familiarity in the field.
The contrast between ISDN and PSTN is elucidated with precision in the article. It certainly offers an insightful analysis of the essential elements that define both networks.
Absolutely, Holmes. The article effectively captures the distinct characteristics of ISDN and PSTN, providing a nuanced understanding of their functionalities.
The historical background of PSTN and its gradual shift from analog to digital voice signals is well-documented in this article. It’s an interesting read, shedding light on the evolution of telecommunication networks.
I couldn’t agree more, James. It’s impressive to see how PSTN has adapted to changing infrastructure, utilizing fiber optic cables to enhance communication.
The article beautifully captures the significance of ISDN in providing high-speed internet options. It’s evident how ISDN has revolutionized the way people communicate and access the internet.
Indeed, Udavis. ISDN’s role in enhancing internet access and pricing, as well as its various configurations like BRI and PRI, is well-explained in the article.