Optical Impairments

A Framework for the Control and Measurement of Wavelength Switched Optical Networks (WSON) with Impairments

Abstract

The operation of optical networks can require a level of detail in the characterization of network elements, subsystems, devices, and cabling not typically encountered with other networking technologies. In addition, these physical characteristics may be important to consider during typical day-to-day operations such as optical path establishment and connection monitoring, as well as during the network planning, installation, and turn-up phases. This document discusses how the definition and characterization of optical fiber, devices, subsystems, and network elements contained in various ITU-T recommendations can be combined with common control and measurement plane and path computation element technologies to support impairment aware Routing and Wavelength Assignment (RWA) in optical networks. 

Status

This has been approved as an informational working group draft.

Information Model for Impaired Optical Path Validation

Abstract

This document provides an information model for the optical impairment characteristics of optical network elements for use in path computation and optical path validation. This model is based on ITU-T defined optical network element characteristics as given in ITU-T recommendation G.680 and related specifications. This model is intentionally compatible with a previous impairment free optical information model used in optical path computations and wavelength assignment.

Status

This is a new information document intended to show how impairment work at the ITU-T can be fairly readily incorporated into a GMPLS/PCE control plane. Recent changes include a discussion of frequency dependent impairment parameters and a new appendix on a distributed impairment validation model for use with signaling.

Information Encoding for Impaired Optical Path Validation

Abstract

This document provides an information encoding for the optical impairment characteristics of optical network elements for use in path computation and optical path impairment validation. This encoding is based on ITU-T defined optical network element characteristics as given in ITU-T recommendation G.680 and related specifications. This encoding is intentionally compatible with a previous impairment free optical information encoding used in optical path computations and wavelength assignment.

 Status

This draft has expired but it aims to show how efficient and compact encoding of optical impairment parameters can be accomplished. This will be updated and revised as the impairments info model progresses.