Modeling software for optical broadband access network design and optimization

Abstract

Designing broadband access networks involves selecting the topology that satisfies the network requirements, and comparing the performance of different what-if scenarios in order to achieve the optimal network layout. Modeling software tools are instrumental for each phase of the design cycle and help answering to complex questions such as what is the impact of single-and multi-mode fiber linear and nonlinear effects, what is maximum fiber length before eye closure, how many regenerators are needed and where they have to be placed. This paper shows through a series of examples how modeling tools can be used for single-and multi-mode broadband access network design and planning.