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carrier definition - telecom
  1. A continuous signal, or waveform, at a certain frequency on a circuit, or within a certain frequency range, and that can be modulated to support an information-bearing signal. In other words, the carrier carries the information signal, which the transmitter impresses on the carrier by varying the signal in some fashion. The carrier also can support signaling and control information used to coordinate and manage various aspects of network operations, although signaling and control can also occur over a subcarrier frequency. A carrier also is known as a carrier wave.
  2. A company that provides information transport services. For example, a Local Exchange Carrier (LEC) provides local information transport services, and an Interexchange Carrier (IEC or IXC) provides transport services between LECs. A heavy carrier is facilities-based, i.e., owns the switching and transmission systems that comprise the network it uses to provide services to its customers.A light carrier is not facilities-based, i.e., leases rather than owns the network it uses to provide services.A common carrier provides message transport services to the general public and generally is regulated to a considerable extent, at least with respect to fundamental aspects of service such as availability and basic rates. See also common carrier, IXC, and LEC.

Webster's New World Telecom Dictionary Copyright © 2008 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Indianapolis, Indiana.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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