Abstract: A coordinated method is provided for controlling dynamic gain equalization in an optical transport network. The method includes: detecting a deviation in optical power of an optical signal traversing the optical transport network along a transmission path, adjusting spectral profile of the optical signal at a first network element in the optical transport network, where the first network element is located in the transmission path downstream from the origination point of the deviation; and adjusting spectral profile of the optical signal at a second network element subsequent to the adjustment at the first network element, where the second network element is located in the transmission path downstream from the origination point and the first network element.

Abstract: A request method for performing optical power management to accomplish planned addition and removal of wavelengths in an optical communications system is disclosed, wherein each wavelength has a path of transmission through the system. The method comprises communicating a request for a power ramp to at least one path network component in the path, determining that the path network component has made preparations for the power ramp, and performing a power ramp in response to the determination. Further, a response method for performing power management to accomplish planned addition and removal of wavelengths in an optical communications system is disclosed, wherein each wavelength has a path of transmission through the system. The method comprises receiving a request for a power ramp, making preparations for the power ramp, determining that the power ramp has been completed, and resuming normal operation in response to the determination.

Abstract: A coordinated method is provided for controlling dynamic gain equalization in an optical transport network. The method includes: detecting a deviation in optical power of an optical signal traversing the optical transport network along a transmission path, adjusting spectral profile of the optical signal at a first network element in the optical transport network, where the first network element is located in the transmission path downstream from the origination point of the deviation; and adjusting spectral profile of the optical signal at a second network element subsequent to the adjustment at the first network element, where the second network element is located in the transmission path downstream from the origination point and the first network element.