Abstract: A high density frame relay circuit within a digital cross-connect matrix converts TDM based DCS matrix data containing frame relay data to/from a DS3 ATM physical interface and provides adaption processing between the frame relay and ATM domains. The circuit is controlled by a DCS administrative subsystem and a simple network management protocol based network element manager.

Abstract: A method of trafficking telecommunication signals having various formats, includes providing, at a first network element, a synchronous payload envelope having a first format, the synchronous payload envelope comprising a synchronous path and associated overhead portion and a payload portion, mapping the synchronous payload envelope into a transport signal having a second format without terminating the synchronous path or associated overhead portion of the synchronous payload envelope, and transmitting the transport signal to a second network element over a network supporting the second format.

Abstract: A system for configuring an optical amplifier in a fiber optic communications network including a safety shutdown input, includes a non-volatile memory for storing optical amplifier parameters. Circuitry is provided for inputting amplifier parameters into the memory and for changing previously stored amplifier parameters. Configuration of the optical amplifier parameters cannot be changed until a hardware control input is actuated. The system also provides for an indication of a mismatch between newly input parameters and previously stored optical amplifier parameters.

Abstract: A mechanism for providing point-to-point and point-to-multipoint connections in an ATM network converts VPI/VCI information at an ingress ATM device on incoming cells from a source endpoint to internal VP/VCI information that is used to switch the cells through an ATM network to an egress ATM device. At the egress ATM device, the internal VPI/VCI information is converted back to the source VPI/VCI information for transmission of cells to the destination endpoint. In such a manner, an ATM switch network is able to provide point-to-point connections without requiring individual configuration of VPI/VCI information at the ingress and egress ATM devices.

Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting the phase difference of a first clock signal (48) and a second clock (50) is disclosed. The apparatus includes a phase indicator (42) which receives a first clock signal (48) and a second clock signal (50) and determines a phase relationship. A microprocessor (44) outputs a digital value related to the phase relationship. An analog to digital converter (46) receives the digital value and outputs an analog value based on the digital signal. After that a voltage controlled constant current source (47) receives the analog value and outputs a constant current source proportional to the analog value. Finally, a phase lock loop circuit (10) receives the constant current source and adjusts the phase relationship.

Abstract: A method of performance monitoring telecommunication signals having various formats, includes receiving a plurality of telecommunication signals comprising at least one signal having a first format and at least one signal having a second format, identifying the format of each signal received, and for each signal, proceeding with a performance monitoring activity in accordance with a set of rules associated with the identified format of each signal.

Abstract: An acousto-optical filter having a wide tuning range and a method of making the same. An acoustic transducer is provided for generating an acoustic pressure wave of a selected frequency that is propagated longitudinally along an optical fiber member. The pressure wave generates a plurality of alternating localized compressions and rarefactions in the optical fiber such that a grating (i.e., periodic changes in the fiber's refractive index) is created therein. The grating reflects optical signals of a particular wavelength depending upon its period or pitch (i.e., Bragg resonance wavelength). The acoustic pressure wave's frequency is modulated by controlling the acoustic transducer such that a variable grating pitch is obtained, thereby causing a corresponding change in the Bragg resonance wavelength of the grating. In response, a reflected optical signal selected from incoming multiplexed optical signals tunes to a different wavelength.

Abstract: An optical filter having a wide tuning range and a method of making the same. A fiber Bragg grating member having a selected grating pitch is coupled to a plurality of actuating members such as Shape Memory Alloys. A current source or thermal source is included for providing a controlled amount of current or heat so as to cause a change in the length of the actuating members. The length of the fiber Bragg grating member is accordingly changed also. The grating pitch is correspondingly altered, thereby causing a change in the Bragg resonance wavelength of the grating. In response, a reflected optical signal selected from incoming multiplexed optical signals tunes to a different wavelength. A closed-loop controller is provided for controlling energy inputs to the actuating members to modulate the tuning of the reflected optical signals.