Abstract: A method for describing problems in a telecommunications network is provided, wherein the alarms for a network service displayed on an operator's console are presented in the order of the path comprising the service and associated with respective network elements, followed by a description of a recommended corrective procedure for the alarms.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for operating an eVOA by modulating its attenuation. If an optical signal power is below a loss of signal (LOS) power threshold the eVOA attenuation is set to a maximum attenuation and then, periodically and quickly decreased and increased in steps while checking for the presence of optical signals above the LOS power threshold. The method is also used for operating a multiplicity of eVOAs while minimizing the risk of damage to optical network equipment.

Abstract: A system and method for operating a plurality of eVOAs in an optical network is provided. The system comprises a number of eVOAs, each eVOA coupled to one or more optical taps and connected to a microcontroller. The microcontroller comprises a monitor signal processing controller for measuring the power of the optical signal at the eVOAs; a scheduler for continuously cycling and checking the eVOAs operating attenuations; a microprocessing controller for determining, setting, adjusting and updating the eVOA operating attenuation and a means for communications between the microprocessor and the other controller within the system. The microcontroller cycles through the plurality of eVOAs and controls one eVOA at a time according to a predetermined method of the eVOA operation. Individual eVOAs may be controlled according to the same or different methods of controlling operations thereof as required.

Abstract: A system and method for operating a plurality of eVOAs in an optical network is provided. The system comprises a number of eVOAs, each eVOA coupled to one or more optical taps and connected to a microcontroller. The microcontroller comprises a monitor signal processing controller for measuring the power of the optical signal at the eVOAs; a scheduler for continuously cycling and checking the eVOAs operating attenuations; a microprocessing controller for determining, setting, adjusting and updating the eVOA operating attenuation and a means for communications between the microprocessor and the other controller within the system. The microcontroller cycles through the plurality of eVOAs and controls one eVOA at a time according to a predetermined method of the eVOA operation.

Abstract: A method for describing problems in a telecommunications network is provided, wherein the alarms for a network service displayed on an operator's console are presented in the order of the path comprising the service and associated with respective network elements, followed by a description of a recommended corrective procedure for the alarms.