Abstract: Server-based systems and methods for performing tests involving system components which use non-standardized command languages. In one embodiment, the system comprises a set of servers and an httpd user interface, all of which communicate with each other in a standardized format, such as XML. A user enters a script through the httpd user interface, which forwards the script through a central server to a connections/test server. The connections/test server is configured to break the script into its components and to transmit them to the appropriate test equipment (test sets and switches.) Servers for each of the of the equipment components include libraries which allow the servers to translate the scripts into commands which are recognized by the equipment. The results generated by the equipment are translated, if necessary, back into the standardized format by the test equipment servers and are forwarded through the central server to the httpd user interface.

Abstract: Systems and methods for generating an electrical copy of an optical signal without having to terminate the optical signal. In one embodiment, an optical amplifier is configured to receive the optical signal and to allow the optical signal to pass therethrough. The optical amplifier is “pumped” by applying a bias voltage across it. The optical signal passing through the optical amplifier causes a population inversion within the optical amplifier to alternately collapse and recharge. A resistor is placed in series with the optical amplifier so that the bias current through the optical amplifier generates a voltage across the resistor which mirrors the optical signal. Both the optical signal and the electrical signal are provided as outputs.