The hidden benefits of optical transparency

The optical fiber amplifier will bring about network transparency and reductions in manning levels, interface problems, software and operating costs, while improving reliability and performance. It is in the area of economics that optical transparency affords a unique opportunity. What is generally not recognized is that there is a raft of hidden benefits, specifically: major reductions in interface technology, network control, and management software; reliability improvements; and reductions in the number of switching sites and craft people. System and network operating costs that are a small (even trivial) fraction of that today look certain to be realized.