At 06:41 PM 9/15/95 -0400, Chris Bartram wrote:
>Fellow netters;
>
>  As we're looking into various frame-relay and fractional-T1 options
>(to Internet) we're faced with several new hardware options, among
>which are the AdTran T1 CSU/DSU (~$1600) and a Cisco 2501 Router (~$2500).
>Plans call for a 56kb frame link, with potential to go to a fractional-T1
>in near future...
>  Any opinions on the above? Is this stuff available used? (Would it be
>worthwhile to even look into buying it used?)
>  Any advice to someone new to frame-relay?
>
 
Well, I assume that you're probably somewhat limited by your ISP.  Most ISP's
        1) like to own the router
        2) like to sell it to you
        3) have a favorite brand they want you to have.
 
That said, I'm happy with the Cisco we just installed.  I know nothing about
the AdTran CSU/DSU, we've almost always used Motorola/UDS units, which have
worked just fine.  I don't know what the difference is, but I'd just install
the T1 on the front end and go at 256, rather than pay 2 installations.  If
your ISP is in the same Central Office, a 0-mile T1 won't cost you too much.
 
As to Frame-Relay, I've been happy with it as a protocol.  You don't mention
the vendor, so I can't comment there other than I have favorites and not-so
favorites.  Check out their support reputation.
 
That's all I have for now...
 
Jim