Abstract: Packets are received at a first boundary node of a long haul optical communication network which may either interconnect originating and destination communication networks or form an integral part of a single end-to-end network. Packets are reclassified to reflect a higher priority of transmission than non-long haul bound packets, as by marking them with an indication of a modified priority level of transmission. Reclassified packets are transmitted over a long-haul optical link to a second boundary node. So that the modified priority level employed in the long-haul network may be understood by a destination network, packets arriving at the second boundary node may be re-mapped or reclassified to a value recognized as being of at least equal and, preferably, higher priority than that originally established by the originating network and/or first bounary node.

Abstract: In a disconnectable low-loss optical connection for optical fibers, each fiber in a pair of optical fibers is surrounded by a connector body to the conical frustum mating end of which is applied a tiny, transparent, flexible index matching dome of silicone rubber or equivalent material. The connector bodies are held together by mating to each other or to a common alignment receptacle having conically hollow receiving surfaces, so that the fiber ends are aligned and the domes touch and flex completing the optical connection.

Abstract: The invention relates to apparatus for precisely aligning an optical device, i.e., a light source or receptor, to an optical fiber. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a header (10) having a plateau (11) for mounting the device (15) and a trough (12) for positioning of the optical fiber (19). The depth (D) of the trough is precisely configured so that the alignment process is limited to adjustment in only one direction (L-L'). A second embodiment (30) allows for the hermetic enclosure of the optical device and adjacent section of optical fiber while providing the same alignment advantage.