There are many scenarios in today’s networks that require the replication of an optical signal, also known as optical multicast. Some of those scenarios include video feeds or data streams that need to reach multiple endpoints simultaneously. In other scenarios an expensive 40/100Gbps port may need to be replicated. In either case, current multicasting solutions create potential problems associated with congestion, cost, and latency.

While there are a number of aspects that can be discussed in regards to optical switching technology, the focus of this article is to provide information about two key categories of optical switches – symmetric and asymmetric.  The concept is very straightforward, but still important to understand when determining which type of optical switch will be most suitable for a given application.

As a provider of Optical Modulation Index (OMI) Instruments used for optimizing laser transmitter performance, our organization has the opportunity to work closely with many of the talented technicians and engineers at the leading CATV operators around the world.  As a result of the many discussions related to both the importance and use of OMI for maximizing system performance, there have been a number of consistent topics we have seen regarding the deployment of transmitters in the network.

If your company is like most that are involved with building or utilizing fiber optic systems, chances are you have a few spools of bare optical fiber laying around the lab.  Since it is critical to ensure fiber-based equipment works as intended prior to deployment in the field, it is a recommended and common practice for engineers to simulate networks using spools of bare optical fiber.  Because there have been a variety of different fibers available over the years, engineers can end up with fair amount of spools at their disposal.

Learning to operate an OTDR properly is a critical skill for field technicians managing and servicing fiber optic networks.  The OTDR is used frequently to determine length and loss characteristics, including testing optical fibers for faults and related issues that can negatively affect network performance.

With most of the world now relying on fiber optic systems for communication, a key component to ensuring a high level of performance from operators is network monitoring.  When we think of network monitoring, much of the focus is usually on the equipment itself, as well as the management of all the data flowing through the system.  As a result, an area often overlooked when deploying and monitoring a network is the actual fiber optic cable, through which all the data is sent from one location to another.

This new, free whitepaper from M2 Optics Inc. discusses the importance of simulating a physical fiber optic network in the laboratory and best practices for achieving maximum results.