Abstract: Some optical communications networks include one ingress fiber, an n-way signal coupler, and n egress fibers, where each fiber may carry signals in one or both directions. A method and apparatus for testing and monitoring data communications immediately before and after the coupler is provided. Benefits include improved ability to identify and locate system faults, and improved ability to monitor data quality and content.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for improved operation of a packet network by controllably providing switched physical alternate links between packet network nodes, at least one of which is a host, and using those switched physical alternate links to supplement the capacity of the packet network. A switched physical alternate link is composed of physical elements, switchable connection devices, and a manager, such that a switched physical alternate link behaves as a single point-to-point physical link between nodes in a packet network. Creating and removing switched physical alternate links as the packet network operates provides supplemental carrying capacity between the packet network nodes connected by switched physical alternate links, while overall packet network congestion is simultaneously reduced.

Abstract: Some optical communications networks include one ingress fiber, an n-way signal coupler, and n egress fibers, where each fiber may carry signals in one or both directions. A method and apparatus for testing and monitoring data communications immediately before and after the coupler is provided. Benefits include improved ability to identify and locate system faults, and improved ability to monitor data quality and content.

Abstract: An apparatus and method that provides for improved optical communication between at least one source and at least one destination, with reduced loss of power and superior retention of the quality of a signal when compared with the prior art. The apparatus has a body having at least one integrated optical channel along which a light signal is transmitted via an N-fold plurality of lenses. A light signal transmitted along the integrated optical channel is repeatedly refocused along the optical axis and is then highly focused at the second end. Optionally, the light signal can be switched, attenuated, filtered, tapped or monitored by positioning appropriate optical devices between the lenses.

Abstract: An apparatus and method that provides for improved optical communication between at least one source and at least one destination, with reduced loss of power and superior retention of the quality of a signal when compared with the prior art. The apparatus has a body having at least one integrated optical channel along which a light signal is transmitted via an N-fold plurality of lenses. A light signal transmitted along the integrated optical channel is repeatedly refocused along the optical axis and is then highly focused at the second end. Optionally, the light signal can be switched, attenuated, filtered, tapped or monitored by positioning appropriate optical devices between the lenses.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for improved operation of a packet network by controllably providing switched physical alternate links between packet network nodes, at least one of which is a host, and using those switched physical alternate links to supplement the capacity of the packet network. A switched physical alternate link is composed of physical elements, switchable connection devices, and a manager, such that a switched physical alternate link behaves as a single point-to-point physical link between nodes in a packet network. Creating and removing switched physical alternate links as the packet network operates provides supplemental carrying capacity between the packet network nodes connected by switched physical alternate links, while overall packet network congestion is simultaneously reduced.