Spectral performance modelling of optical access networks

This paper describes a software system that can be used to predict the spectral performance of optical access networks. The system can be used by the planners and designers of such networks to assess the spectral performance of existing or proposed optical networks. The software package combines the theoretical models developed in the course of a research programme with experimental data obtained from the devices used in the UK field trials of fibre in the local access network. Using this package, a planner or designer is able to construct networks on actual location maps and then obtain forward and return loss spectral characteristics on any paths throughout the network. Since the development of the system is based on object oriented technology, it is future-proofed to the extent that any changes in the technology of the local access network can readily be incorporated into the existing modelling process