Performance Analysis of Wavelength Division Multiplexing-Based Passive Optical Network Protection Schemes by Means of the Network Availability Evaluator

Abstract

This paper is focused on the performance analysis of protection mechanisms utilized in common wavelength division multiplexing-based passive optical networks. The main aim of the proposed research is providing an option of comparing different traffic protection scenarios for advanced optical network designs, evaluating their possible realizations from a viewpoint of the total optical power budget and analyzing their network availabilities with accommodation to concrete optical access infrastructures. First, a short basic classification of passive optical network architectures utilizing advanced wavelength division multiplexing techniques is introduced. Second, considered presumptive protection scenarios deployed to this kind of passive optical networks involved in the performance analysis are presented. For the performance analysis, corresponding reliability diagrams, relations and formulas used for the calculation of the total network availability are prepared for any specific scenario. In addition, the optical power budget is considered and subsequently evaluated for each protection scheme. For evaluating possible migration scenarios related to considered protection schemes and for comparing protection possibilities of various passive optical networks, a realization of the appropriate simulation tool must be executed. The simulation program utilizes specific parameters of particular optical components utilized in a selected protection scheme and presents its resultant network availability. Values of considered specific parameters can be changed according to the well-known data resources or specific network operator’s data. Subsequently, relevant simulation results obtained by the Network Availability Evaluator that can provide insights into relationships between a number of protection schemes are used for the performance analysis. Finally, an evaluation of the total network availability for considered traffic protection scenarios utilized in passive optical networks with advanced wavelength division multiplexing is included.