SDH (Synchronous Digital Hierarchy) is a standard technology for synchronous data transmission that provides faster and less expensive network interconnection than traditional PDH (Plesiochronous Digital Hierarchy) equipment. PDH uses asynchronous multiplexing which means low rate signals cannot be directly added or dropped from high rate signals, requiring multi-stage addition and dropping. PDH also lacked universal standards for electrical and optical interfaces and had limited overhead bytes for network management functions. SDH was developed to address these disadvantages of PDH through synchronous multiplexing and a standardized frame structure and network management system.