NEC America's Optical Network Systems Division introduces optical network management solution

Fiber Optics Weekly Update, June 7, 2002

NEC America Inc. (NEC) Optical Network Systems Division announced it will introduce its SpectralWave Networking Software (SWNS) this month. A family of software modules that enable operators to improve network efficiency and generate new revenue streams, SWNS is the industry's first suite of solutions that integrates control plane, network management and network planning software. Ideally suited for next generation IP networks, NEC will make its SWNS suite available to operators in the third quarter of 2002.

NEC's approach in developing the industry's first integrated solution consists of several components:

SWNS Control Plane Software -- This distributed network control software increases network flexibility and efficiency. Both GMPLS (Generalized Multi-Protocol Label Switch) and LMP (Link Management Protocol) is included to realize UNI (User Network Interface) and NNI (Network Node Interface) in a network environment. Automated network configuration recognition, network route search, path setup, and network protection function are realized, as well.

SWNS Network Management System -- In addition to existing OAM&P (Operation, Administration, Maintenance, and Provisioning) functions, this system can share network resources information with the distributed control plane, and support gradual migration from existing centralized management to distributed management. It also supports standardized CORBA-based interface to operate in a multi-vendor network environment.

SWNS Network Planning Tool -- In addition to managing current demands, this tool assesses existing network resources and facilities, and projects future needs to provide an optimized network expansion path. It also supports path design through multi-layer network and protection path design for network failure recovery.