Telecom Dictionary

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UIS 
Universal Information Services

UNE
Unbundled Network Elements (also known as UNE) are a requirement mandated by the Telecommunications Act of 1996. They are the parts of the network that the ILECs are required to offer on an unbundled basis. Together, these parts make up a loop that connects to a DSLAM or a voice switch (or both). The loop allows non-facilities-based telecommunications providers to deliver service without laying network infrastructure (copper/fiber).

UNE-P
UNE-Platform - a combination of UNEs (loop + port is SBC's definition, port involves switching which is bought per minute at a "cost" rate from the RBOCs) that allow end to end service delivery without ANY facilities. Despite not involving any CLEC facilities, it still requires facilities-based certification from the PUC to deliver services via UNE-P.

Unguided Media
Unguided media is any medium in which boundary effects between "free space" and material 
substances are absent. The "free space" medium may or may not include a gas or vapor. 
Unguided media including the earth's atmosphere and outer space support terrestrial and satellite 
radio and optical transmission.

UNI 
user-network interface

Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP)
UTP is a two wood pulp or plastic insulated copper conductors (wires), twisted together into 
pairs, capable of propagating electromagnetic waves. The twists, or lays, are varied in length to 
reduce the potential for signal interference between pairs, in multi-pair cables. Wire sizes range 
from 26 to l9 gauge (i.e., 0.016 to 0.036 inch in diameter) and are typically manufactured in 
cables of from 2 to 3600 pairs. Shielded twisted pair cable is similar to UTP, but the twisted pairs 
are surrounded by a cylindrical metallic conductor that is clad with an insulating sheath. See 
cable; conductor.

UTP 
Unshielded twisted pair. See Unshielded Twisted Pair.