Based on its name and enumeration, this value configures whether the synchronous data circuit interface operates as DTE (Data Terminal Equipment) or DCE (Data Circuit-terminating Equipment); the source MIB provides no description text for this object. Admins set it to match the role this interface must play in the serial connection, since DTE and DCE devices have complementary clocking and signaling responsibilities. As an illustrative example, setting it to dce(2) would configure the interface to provide clocking to an attached DTE device, such as a router's serial port.