Identifying and monitoring connections in optical systems

Abstract

A technique for identifying and monitoring connections in an optical system is provided. A plurality of optical ports are configured to receive a plurality of optical links coupled to one or more remote optical devices. At least one optical source generates an identification (ID) signal. At least one optical element is configured to direct the ID signal to a transmission path from the source optical device to the remote optical device through the plurality of optical links. The remote optical device includes one or more optical elements that direct the ID signal through a set of WDM filters and return the ID signal. The at least one optical element directs the returned ID signal to an optical channel monitor. At least one microprocessor is configured to execute control instructions to generate the ID signal and, in response to the returned ID signal, process one or more outputs of the optical channel monitor to identify the plurality of optical links.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to optical systems, and more particularly to identifying and monitoring connections between optical devices. Background Art

[0002] The approaches described in this section are approaches that could be pursued, but not necessarily approaches that have been previously conceived or pursued. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated, any approach described in this section should not be assumed to qualify as prior art merely by virtue of its inclusion in this section.

[0003] Optical networks are used for many applications, such as communications, measurement, monitoring, energy delivery, and other applications. Optical networks typically provide high-speed voice, video, and data transmission between providers and homes, businesses, and other networks. In an optical network, an optical link connects two or more optical devices. An optical link comprises a communication medium (e.g., one or more optical fibers) connected to a device capable of optical communication via the communication medium.

[0004] The configuration of optical links in an optical network can become complex. For example, an optical device may be connected to one or more other optical devices, with one or more optical links between each pair of optical devices. Optical devices may be located in different slots of the same optical network device shelf, in different racks of the same network device rack, in different locations at the same site, and / or at different sites. For example, some optical devices may be located away from sites controlled by the operator of the optical network in order to be physically closer to user locations. Optical patch panels or optical shuffle boxes can be used to manage optical connections at the site.

[0005] Wavelength division multiplexing ("WDM") systems are often used to handle routing in optical networks. WDM systems typically multiplex multiple optical signals with different wavelengths so that multiple different signals can propagate over a single optical fiber. Because optical fibers can carry multiple signals simultaneously, WDM increases the complexity of optical links at network nodes when separating multiple signals.

[0006] Optical links are often physically connected using cables on an ad hoc basis, making cable management and / or mapping difficult. Identifying connection paths, such as during device setup, configuration, and / or reconfiguration, can be a complex task. Monitoring the operation of optical links, such as detecting disconnections and / or degradation, can also be challenging.

[0007] Typical solutions may involve lasers and photodetectors with complex algorithms to identify and / or monitor optical links at remote sites, which may require complex powered circuitry and a powerful CPU to handle the identification, monitoring, and / or communication with a network controller. However, the remote optical device may be passive, without circuitry or access to a power source. For example, a passive optical device may be located at a remote site that is geographically distant from a connected site with powered optical devices. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The following claims may serve as a summary of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] In the attached figure:

[0010] Figure 1 shows an optical system in an example embodiment;

[0011] Figure 2 An optical system in an example embodiment is shown wherein the ID block is in the source optical device and the remote ID block is in the remote optical device;

[0012] Figures 3A to 3B shows a set of WDM filters in an example embodiment;

[0013] Figure 4 An optical system in an example embodiment is shown wherein the monitor block is in a source optical device and the remote monitor block is in a remote optical device;

[0014] Figure 5 An optical system having a monitor block for a source optical device and a remote monitor block for a remote optical device in an example embodiment is shown;

[0015] Figure 6 An optical system having an optical add / drop multiplexer (OADM) node in an example embodiment is shown;

[0016] Figure 7 The directional device and the add / drop group device in the OADM node in the exemplary embodiment are shown;

[0017] Figure 8 The invention shows a directional device and an add / drop group device in an OADM node implementing an ID mechanism in an example embodiment;

[0018] Figure 9 The invention shows a directional device and an add / drop group device in an OADM node implementing a monitor mechanism in an example embodiment;

[0019] Although each of the figures illustrates a specific embodiment for the purpose of illustrating a clear example, other embodiments may omit, add, reorder, or modify any of the elements shown in the figures. For the purpose of illustrating a clear example, one or more figures may be described with reference to one or more other figures. However, in other embodiments, the specific arrangements shown in one or more other figures are not required. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] In the following description, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent that the present invention can be practiced without these specific details. The following detailed description describes exemplary embodiments, and the disclosed features are not intended to be limited to the combinations explicitly disclosed. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated, the features disclosed herein can be combined to form additional combinations not otherwise shown for the purpose of brevity.

[0021] It will be further understood that: unless otherwise expressly stated, the term "or" may be inclusive or exclusive; the term "set" may include zero, one, or two or more elements; unless otherwise stated, the terms "first", "second", "a" and "particular" are used as naming conventions to distinguish elements from each other and do not indicate the order, timing or any other characteristics of the referenced items; as used herein, the term "and / or" refers to and covers any and all possible combinations of one or more associated listed items; the terms "include" and / or "comprising" specify the presence of the stated features, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features.

[0022] General Overview

[0023] Generally described herein are systems, methods, devices, and other techniques for identifying and monitoring connections in an optical system. The optical system includes one or more source optical devices and one or more remote optical devices that implement an identification mechanism and / or a monitor mechanism.

[0024] To implement the identification mechanism, the source optical device includes an identification (ID) block comprising optical elements that identify one or more connections to one or more remote optical devices. The one or more remote optical devices each include a remote ID block comprising one or more optical elements. An ID signal generated at the source optical device is transmitted to the one or more remote optical devices, processed by the remote ID block, and then transmitted back to the source optical device, where the ID block identifies the one or more connections based on the returned ID signal. The ID signal generated at the source optical device for identification is of an ID wavelength λ. {ID} In some embodiments, λ {ID} Not with service wavelength λ {service}The sets of overlap and no identification mechanism is used during normal operation of the source and remote optical devices.

[0025] To implement the monitor mechanism, the source optical device includes a monitor block comprising optical elements that evaluate the connectivity of one or more connections between the source optical device and one or more remote optical devices. The one or more remote optical devices each include a remote monitor block comprising one or more optical elements. A monitor signal generated at the source optical device is transmitted to the one or more remote optical devices, processed by the remote monitor block, and then transmitted back to the source optical device, where the monitor block evaluates the connectivity of the one or more connections based on the returned monitor signal. The monitor signal generated at the source optical device may have a reference wavelength λ. r In some embodiments, r Not with service wavelength λ {service} The sets of overlap and the monitor mechanism is not used during normal operation of the source and remote optical devices.

[0026] In some embodiments, the remote ID block and / or remote monitor block include only passive components that do not require electronics and / or electrical power. In this way, only purely passive optical circuits are deployed in the remote optical device that can be tested using the ID mechanism and / or monitor mechanism. Additional features and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings.

[0027] System Overview

[0028] Figure 1 An optical system in an example embodiment is shown. Optical system 100 includes an optical network having one or more source optical devices 102 and one or more remote optical devices 106-108. As used herein, the term "optical device" refers to an optical device having one or more optical ports for communicatively coupling the optical device to another device so that optical signals can propagate over a communication link between the optical devices. An optical device can be a standalone device and / or can include two or more optical device components.

[0029] Source optical device 102 communicates with one or more remote optical devices 106 to 108 via one or more optical links 1 to i. Source optical device 102 can be coupled to a specific remote optical device 106 to 108 via one or more optical links. An optical link can include a transmitter, a receiver, and a cable assembly that can transmit information between two points. An optical link can include unidirectional or bidirectional optical fibers. For example, optical link 1 includes two optical fibers for unidirectional communication, while optical link 3 includes one optical fiber for bidirectional communication. As used herein, the optical fibers within an optical link are referred to as optical link assemblies. An optical link can include one or more cables terminated with one or more optical connectors designed to mate with optical ports of an optical device.

[0030] The source optical device 102 can be configured to perform one or more functions in conjunction with one or more remote optical devices 106 to 108. These functions are performed by a functional block 104 at the source optical device 102 and one or more functional blocks 110 to 112 at the remote optical devices 106 to 108. As used herein, an optical block, such as functional blocks 104 and 110 to 112, is a collection of one or more optical elements that generates and / or processes one or more optical signals associated with a specific function. In some embodiments, the source optical device 102 is a directional device in an OADM node, and the remote optical devices 106 to 108 are add-drop group devices in the OADM node.

[0031] Function block 104 generates a signal having a wavelength λ from the service wavelength {service} The service signals of frequencies selected from the set are transmitted to one or more remote optical devices 106 to 108 via one or more communication links 1 to i. In some embodiments, λ {service} A channel includes wavelengths in a specific communication band (e.g., O-band, E-band, S-band, C-band, L-band, 850 nm band, U-band, and / or other communication bands). A channel refers to an optical signal transmitted at a specific wavelength. As used herein, the term "transmit path" refers to the path of a service signal from the functional block 104 of the source optical device 102 to the functional block 112 of the remote optical device 108. As used herein, the term "receive path" refers to the path of a service signal from the functional block 112 of the remote optical device 108 to the functional block 104 of the source optical device 102. The transmit path and / or receive path can travel on an optical link. Transmit path i carries a specific service wavelength λ from W1 to X1 via optical link i. i The receiving path i carries the λ from Z1 to Y1 propagating on the optical link i. i service signal.

[0032] In some embodiments, the source optical device 102 is configured to identify an optical connection at one or more remote optical devices 106 to 108. For example, the source optical device 102 can determine that a signal of a particular wavelength is propagating on a particular optical link. In some embodiments, the source optical device 102 identifies multiple optical connections to multiple remote optical devices 106 to 108. The source optical device 102 can include an identification (ID) block 114 that includes one or more optical elements that identify the connection to the one or more remote optical devices 106 to 108. The ID block 114 identifies a signal having a wavelength λ from the source optical device 102 by, for example, directing an ID signal at B1 into the transmission path i. {ID} 14. The remote optical device 108 transmits an identification (ID) signal at a frequency selected from a set of ID blocks 114 to one or more remote optical devices 106 to 108. A remote ID block 116 at the remote optical device 108 processes the ID signal from the ID block 114 and transmits a return ID signal back to the ID block 114. At the remote optical device 108, the ID signal from the transmission path i is directed to the remote ID block 116 at G1, while the return ID signal from the remote ID block 116 is directed to the receive path at H1. The return ID signal is directed from the transmission path i to the ID block 114 at M1.

[0033] The term "identification mechanism" is used herein to refer to the combination of an ID block 114 at a source optical device 102 and a remote ID block 116 at one or more remote optical devices 108 optically connected to the source optical device. The identification mechanism is described in more detail below.

[0034] Alternatively and / or additionally, the source optical device 102 can be configured to monitor the optical connection at one or more remote optical devices 106 to 108. For example, the source optical device 102 can include a monitor block 118 that includes one or more optical elements that monitor the connection between the source optical device 102 and the one or more remote optical devices 106 to 108 to assess the connectivity of the optical link. For example, by directing a monitor signal at P1 into the transmission path i, the monitor block 118 will have a wavelength λ r The monitor signals of one or more reference frequencies are transmitted to one or more remote optical devices 106 to 108. The remote monitor block 120 at the remote optical device 108 processes the monitor signals from the monitor block 118 and transmits the return monitor signals back to the monitor block 118. At the remote optical device 108, the monitor signals from the transmission path i are directed to the remote monitor block 120 at E1, and the return monitor signals from the remote monitor block 120 are directed to the receive path at F1. The return monitor signals are directed from the transmission path i to the monitor block 118 at K1.

[0035] The source optical device 102 may include one or more microprocessors 150. The microprocessor 150 may perform one or more calculations required by the functional block 104, the ID block 114, and / or the monitor block 118. In some embodiments, the microprocessor 150 executes one or more control instructions to perform one or more control processes. The control instructions may include hard-coded instructions, firmware, and / or software. In some embodiments, the microprocessor 150 executes instructions for the ID control process to generate an ID signal and processes measurements of the returned ID signal to generate an output including an identification of one or more optical links to the remote optical devices 106 to 108. In some embodiments, the microprocessor 150 executes instructions for the monitor control process to generate a monitor signal and processes measurements of the returned monitor signal to generate an output including the health of one or more connections to the one or more remote optical devices 106 to 108.

[0036] The term "monitoring mechanism" is used herein to refer to the combination of a monitor block 118 at a source optical device 102 and a remote monitor block 120 at one or more remote optical devices 108 optically connected to the source optical device. The monitor mechanism is described in more detail below.

[0037] In an optical system, the source optical device 102 and one or more connected remote optical devices 106 to 108 may implement both an identification mechanism and a monitor mechanism, or may independently implement the identification mechanism or the monitor mechanism. Different source optical devices in the same optical system may not implement either the identification mechanism and / or the monitor mechanism, or may implement one or both of the identification mechanism and / or the monitor mechanism. In some embodiments, the source optical device 102 is a directional device in an optical add / drop multiplexer (OADM) node, and each add / drop group device in the OADM node implements the identification mechanism, the monitor mechanism, or both the identification mechanism and the monitor mechanism.

[0038] For ease of illustration, aspects described herein with respect to a particular source optical device, a particular remote optical device, and / or a particular optical link may be applied to one or more other source optical devices, remote optical devices, and / or optical links. For example, an optical system may include one or more source optical devices; a source optical device may communicate with a remote optical device via one or more optical links; and / or a source optical device may communicate with one or more remote optical devices. Furthermore, the techniques for identifying and monitoring may be applied to one optical link, multiple optical links, and / or all optical links from a source optical device. Although one or more specific elements may be shown in particular embodiments, other elements and configurations may provide equivalent functionality without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure.

[0039] Identification mechanism

[0040] Figure 2 1 shows an optical system in an example embodiment where the ID block is in the source optical device and the remote ID block is in the remote optical device. The optical system 200 includes a source optical device 202 and a remote optical device 208 connected by an optical link i. The set of service wavelengths λ is used. {service} The specific service wavelength λ in i , the transmission path i from W2 to X2 carries the service signal from the functional block 204 of the source optical device 202 to the functional block 212 of the remote optical device 208, and the reception path i from Z2 to Y2 carries the service signal from the functional block 212 of the remote optical device 208 to the functional block 204 of the source optical device 202.

[0041] The source optical device 202 includes an ID block 214 that identifies one or more connections at one or more remote optical devices. The remote optical device 208 includes a remote ID block 216. As previously described, one remote ID block may exist in one or more remote optical devices connected to the source optical device 202. In addition, multiple remote ID blocks may exist in the remote optical device 208.

[0042] ID block 214 uses a set of ID wavelengths λ {ID} The ID signal is transmitted on the transmission path i. At A2, the light source 220 generates a set of wavelengths λ {ID} In some embodiments, the light source 220 includes one or more broadband light sources, one or more tunable lasers, one or more diodes such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) and laser diodes (LDs), and / or one or more diodes that can provide λ {ID} Other Sources of Light. In some embodiments, light source 220 is a light source that exists in source optics 202 for other purposes, such as a light source belonging to functional block 204.

[0043] At B2, one or more elements 222-224 are used to direct the ID signal to the transmission path i. For example, element 224 can be a splitter and / or a switch, a multiplexer, or another optical element. In some embodiments, light source 220 generates λ {ID} Light is directed into a transmission path that propagates on one or more other optical links. For example, element 222 may be a switch element and / or a splitter element that uses one or more elements 242 to transmit light to one or more other transmission paths, such as, but not limited to, the transmission path that propagates on optical link 2.

[0044] At G2, the ID signal is directed into a bypass path from G2 and H2 using an element 226 (e.g., a switch or another optical element at G2) capable of directing the ID signal into the bypass path. In some embodiments, the bypass path is enabled only when identification of the optical link is performed for the optical system 200. In this case, the element 226 can be a switch that does not affect the transmission of the service signal during normal operation of the functional blocks 204 and 212.

[0045] The ID signal transmitted through the transmission path i enters the bypass path G2-H2 and propagates to the set of wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) filters 228. Each WDM filter in the set of WDM filters 228 can pass or block different wavelengths. The set of WDM filters 228 can be used in different combinations. When the set of WDM filters includes a maximum number of filters l of different wavelengths and the maximum number of filters used to "build such an optical ID block" is k (k<=l), the total number of unique identifiers (IDs) that can be created by "such an optical ID block" will be equal to C l k +C l k-1 +…+C l 1 For example, if a set of WDM filters has a 400 GHz channel spacing in the typical C-band with a total bandwidth of 4 THz, the set of WDM filters can have at most l=10 filters of different wavelengths (4 THz / 400 GHz). If only one filter is used to build an "optical block" (k=1), 10 optical links can be identified. If a maximum of two filters are used to "build an optical block" (k=2), 55 optical links can be identified (C 10 2 +C 10 1 =45+10=55). Based on the maximum connectivity of the source optical device 202, the minimum number of filters required to ensure that each connection can be uniquely identified among all connections from the source optical device 202 to the remote optical device 208 can be determined.

[0046] In some embodiments, the set of WDM filters 228 and / or the remote ID block 216 are pluggable components in the remote optical device 208. When the set of WDM filters 228 and / or the remote ID block 216 are pluggable components, the number of WDM filters can be changed, for example, to accommodate a greater number of remote optical devices 208 that can be identified by the source optical device 202.

[0047] Figure 3AFIG2 shows the configuration of a set of WDM filters (e.g., set 228 of WDM filters) in a remote ID block (e.g., remote ID block 216) in an example embodiment. The set 328 of WDM filters in the bypass path (e.g., G2-H2) includes one or more optical notch filters that can block different wavelengths (λ i ,λ j ,λ k The filters are placed in series, and in the event that light passes through the set 328 of WDM filters, one or a range of wavelengths will be blocked.

[0048] Figure 3B FIG2 shows the configuration of a set of WDM filters (e.g., set of WDM filters 228) in a remote ID block (e.g., remote ID block 216) in an example embodiment. The set of WDM filters in the bypass path (e.g., G2-H2) includes one or more optical bandpass filters, each of which can pass a different wavelength (λ) i ,λ j ,λ k ,λ m ) signals. The filters are cascaded together, and with light passing through the block, one or a range of wavelengths will pass, while the rest will be blocked.

[0049] return Figure 2 , the ID signal is directed into receive path i at H2. At M2, one or more elements 232 to 234 (e.g., one or more splitters, filters, demultiplexers, and / or other optical modules) direct the returned ID signal from receive path i to a set of one or more elements 236 to 238 of an optical channel monitor (OCM) 240. The OCM 240 measures properties of the returned ID signal, such as the wavelength of a particular received signal. In some embodiments, the OCM 240 includes a tunable filter 236 and a photodetector 238. The tunable filter 236 and the photodetector 238 are integrated to perform optical wavelength channel monitoring. The OCM 240 allows the ID block 214 to determine the set of ID wavelengths λ. {ID} The ID block 214 uniquely identifies which wavelengths in the optical link i have been blocked or passed, thereby allowing the ID block 214 to uniquely identify the optical link i. The light generated by the light source 220 traverses the path A2-B2-C2-D2-G2-H2-I2-J2-M2-N2-O2.

[0050] To perform identification, light returning from a receive path (e.g., receive path i) of an optical link is directed through a channel monitor (e.g., OCM 240). Source optical device 202 may have one or more OCMs for testing a set of optical links (e.g., optical link i) having a remote ID block (e.g., remote ID block 216). In some embodiments, OCM 240 is shared between two or more receive paths, such that returned ID signals returning via one or more other optical links are also directed to OCM 240. For example, element 244 (e.g., a splitter element and / or a filter element) directs light from a receive path propagating through optical link 2 to OCM 240. In some embodiments, one OCM 240 is shared between all testable optical links having a remote ID block. Alternatively and / or additionally, one or more additional OCM elements may be present in one or more connections to other remote ID blocks. Source optical device 202 may include electronic circuitry that uses the output of OCM 240 to perform identification. In some embodiments, ID block 214 may identify wavelengths associated with one or more optical links, one or more ports associated with a particular wavelength, or other identifying information.

[0051] In some embodiments, each connection between the source optical device 202 and the remote optical device 208 includes a remote monitor block and a monitor block, which may include shared components. In some embodiments, the ID block may include circuitry 214 and / or may share circuitry and / or resources used by other functions of the source optical device 202 (e.g., functional block 204). In some embodiments, the source optical device 202 includes one or more microprocessors (e.g., microprocessor 150) that execute one or more control instructions to perform one or more identification control processes described herein. In some embodiments, the remote ID block 216 is a passive optical block that includes only passive optical components.

[0052] In some embodiments, the set of ID signal wavelengths λ {ID} The set of possible service signal wavelengths λ {service} overlap, and the identification mechanism does not operate during normal operation of the optical system 200. For example, the identification mechanism described herein can be used during installation, modification, testing, and / or configuration of the source optical device 202 and the remote optical device 208. In some embodiments, λ {ID} Not with λ {service} Overlap. When ID wavelength λ {ID} and service wavelength λ {service} The identification mechanism may be used during normal operation of the source optical device 202 and the remote optical device 208 when there is no conflict or overlap therebetween.

[0053] Monitor mechanism

[0054] Figure 4 An optical system having a monitor block in a source optical device and a remote monitor block in a remote optical device in an example embodiment is shown. The optical system 400 includes a source optical device 402 and a remote optical device 408 connected by an optical link i. Using a set of service wavelengths λ {service} The specific service wavelength λ in i The transmission path i from W4 to X4 carries the service signal from the functional block 404 of the source optical device 402 to the functional block 412 of the remote optical device 408 through the optical link i. The reception path i from Z4 to Y4 uses λ i The light carries the service signal from the functional block 412 to the source optical device 402 .

[0055] The source optical device 402 includes a monitor block 418 that monitors one or more connections between the source optical device 402 and one or more remote optical devices 408. The remote optical devices 408 include a remote monitor block 420 that is communicatively coupled to the monitor block 418. As previously noted, the remote monitor block 420 can be present in one or more remote optical devices connected to the source optical device 402. Furthermore, multiple remote monitor blocks can be present in the remote optical device 408.

[0056] Monitor block 418 uses a reference wavelength λ r The monitor signal is transmitted on transmission path i. The monitor signal is directed into transmission path i at P4. For example, light source 422 can generate a monitor signal at Q4. In some embodiments, light source 422 includes one or more broadband light sources, one or more tunable lasers, one or more diodes such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) and laser diodes (LDs), and / or one or more diodes that can provide a reference wavelength λ. r In some embodiments, light source 420 is a light source that exists in source optics 402 for other purposes, such as a light source belonging to functional block 404. In some embodiments, multiple reference wavelengths and / or dynamically selected reference wavelengths are used.

[0057] In some embodiments, the light source 422 generates λ r Light is directed into a transmission path that propagates on one or more other optical links. For example, element 424 may be a switch element and / or a splitter element that uses one or more elements to transmit light to one or more other transmission paths, such as, but not limited to, the transmission path that propagates on optical link 3.

[0058] At P4, a monitor signal is added to transmission path i corresponding to optical link i using one or more elements 426. For example, element 426 can be a multiplexer (MUX) element that combines the service signal from functional block 404 with the monitor signal from optical source 422. The monitor signal propagates on path Q4–P4–C4–D4–E4–F4–I4–J4–K4–L4.

[0059] At E4, the monitor signal is directed into a bypass path from E4 to F4, for example, by using element 432. For example, the bypass path can be set up using WDM technology, for example, by using an optical demultiplexer (DEMUX) element 432 at E4 and a MUX element 434 at F4. The DEMUX element 432 separates the λ at E4. r The MUX element 434 converts the wavelength λ to the signal of the remote optical device 408. r λ r The monitor signals are added to receive path i so that they return to source optics 402 for processing.

[0060] At K4, one or more optical elements 436 to 438 direct the monitor signal from receive path i to photodetector 440. For example, DEMUX element 436 at K4 may separate λ r The monitor signal wavelength is redirected and directed to photodetector 440. The redirected monitor signal is not received at functional block 404 of source optical device 402. Alternatively, other components may be used to direct the monitor signal from receive path i to photodetector 440. Photodetector 440 evaluates the monitor signal returned from remote optical device 408. For example, photodetector 440 may be used to detect the power of the returned monitor signal to determine the optical loss along path C4-D4-E4-F4-I4-J4. Based on the configuration of remote monitor block 420, in one or more embodiments, it may be assumed that the optical loss between D4 and I4 is negligible. The connectivity and / or health of optical link i may be compared and continuously monitored. For example, the optical loss along C4-D4 and I4-J4 may be compared to baseline data from factory calibration and / or configuration. The monitor mechanism can detect significant fiber break events or loss degradation issues during normal operation of source optical device 402 and remote optical device 408.

[0061] In some embodiments, photodetector 440 is shared between two or more optical links, such that monitor signals from one or more other receive paths are also directed to the same photodetector 440. For example, element 438 (such as, but not limited to, an optical coupler or switch element) can direct light from the receive path of optical link 3 to photodetector 440. In some embodiments, one photodetector 440 is shared between all monitored optical links having a remote ID block. Alternatively and / or additionally, one or more additional photodetector elements can be present in one or more connections to other remote monitor blocks.

[0062] In some embodiments, each connection between the source optical device 402 and the remote optical device includes a remote monitor block and a monitor block, which may include shared components. In some embodiments, the monitor block 418 may include circuitry and / or may share circuitry and / or resources used by other functions of the source optical device 402 (e.g., functional block 404). In some embodiments, the source optical device 402 includes one or more microprocessors (e.g., microprocessor 150) that execute one or more control instructions to perform one or more monitor control processes described herein. In some embodiments, the remote monitor block 420 is a passive optical block that includes only passive optical components.

[0063] In some embodiments, the monitor mechanism operates during normal operation of the optical system 400 and the reference wavelength λ of the monitor signal r Not with the wavelength λ of the service signal {service} Overlap. For example, r The frequency band selected for the service signal may be outside the frequency band selected for the service signal. In some embodiments, more than one reference wavelength is used. Independent monitoring of the transmit and receive paths

[0064] In some embodiments, the source optical device is configured to independently monitor the connectivity and health of the first link component 570 used by the transmit path and the second link component 572 used by the receive path. Figure 5An optical system having a monitor block of a source optical device and a remote monitor block of a remote optical device in an example embodiment is shown. Optical system 500 includes a source optical device 502 and a remote optical device 508 connected by an optical link i. Transmission path i from W5 to X5 carries a service signal from functional block 504 of source optical device 502 to functional block 512 of remote optical device 508. From C5 to D5, transmission path i travels on a first link component 570 (e.g., a first optical fiber) of optical link i. Receive path i from Z5 to Y5 carries a service signal from functional block 512 to functional block 504. From I5 to J5, transmission path i travels on a second link component 572 (e.g., a second optical fiber) of optical link i. The service signal has a set of service wavelengths λ. {service} The specific service wavelength λ in i .

[0065] Source optical device 502 includes a monitor block 518. One or more remote monitor blocks 520 may be present in one or more optical devices connected to source optical device 502. Monitor block 518 transmits a reference wavelength λ on one or more optical link components to be monitored. r A first circuit, including monitor block elements 522-530 and remote monitor block elements 552-554, is configured to monitor transmit path i, and a second circuit, including monitor block elements 532-540 and remote monitor block elements 556-558, is configured to monitor receive path i. In some embodiments, the first and second circuits operate in the same or similar manner using elements that perform the same or similar functions with respect to transmit path i and receive path i. The first circuit is described in more detail below.

[0066] In the first circuit associated with transmission path i, the light source 528 generates λ r At P5, one or more elements are used to direct the monitor signal to the corresponding transmission path i. For example, the WDM element 524 may include r The monitor signal is added to the i In some embodiments, the light source 528 includes one or more broadband light sources, one or more tunable lasers, one or more diodes such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) and laser diodes (LDs), and / or one or more diodes that can provide λ. rOther Light Sources. In some embodiments, light source 528 is a light source present in source optical device 502 for other purposes, such as a light source belonging to functional block 504. In some embodiments, light source 528 generates a monitor signal that is directed to the transmission paths of one or more other optical links. For example, element 522 may be a switch element and / or a splitter element that directs light to one or more other transmission paths, such as, but not limited to, the transmission paths propagating on optical link 3.

[0067] In the remote monitor block 520 at the remote optical device 508, the monitor signal enters the bypass path at E5 using one or more elements. For example, the WDM element 552 may include a split λ at E5. r The WDM element 552 demultiplexes the λ r The monitor signal is directed to R5. At R5, the reflector 554 reflects λ r Monitor signal. r The monitor signal propagates back to WDM element 552, which may include a MUX element that directs the reflected monitor signal back to source optics 502. Although transmission path i is represented by an arrow indicating the direction of the service signal from W5 to X5, transmission path i allows for bidirectional signaling, allowing the reflected monitor signal to propagate from reflector 554 at R5 to WDM element 524 at P5. The reflected monitor signal propagates to photodetector 526 at L5. For example, a circulator at T5 may direct the outgoing monitor signal from light source 528 to WDM 524 via element 522, and may direct the incoming reflected monitor signal to photodetector 526. In some embodiments, the DEMUX element of WDM element 524 directs the returning wavelength λ at P5. r The monitor signals are separated so that they do not propagate to functional block 504.

[0068] Photodetector 526 detects the power of the reflected monitor signal to determine the optical loss along its path Q5–T5–A5–P5–C5–D5–E5–R5–E5–D5–C5–P5–A5–T5–L5 from light source 528 to photodetector 526. Source optical device 502 may have one or more photodetectors 526 for evaluating the reflected monitor signal. In some embodiments, photodetector 526 is shared between two or more optical links, such that reflected monitor signals from one or more other receive paths are also directed to the same photodetector 526. Alternatively and / or additionally, photodetector elements may be present in one or more other optical links. Based on the configuration of monitor block 518 and remote monitor block 520, in one or more embodiments, it may be assumed that optical loss on segments external to first link assembly 570 is negligible. The connectivity and / or health of first link assembly 570 can be compared and continuously monitored. For example, the optical measurements detected by the photodetector 526 can be compared to baseline data at the time of factory calibration and / or configuration to determine optical loss. The monitor mechanism can detect fiber disconnect or failure events or loss degradation issues in the first link assembly 570 during normal operation of the source optical device 502 and the remote optical device 508.

[0069] In some embodiments, the first circuit associated with transmission path i has additional components for improved health and connectivity monitoring. For example, photodetector 530 can be used to monitor the health of light source 528. Light travels from light source 528 to photodetector 530 without traveling over any optical link. For example, light can travel from light source 528 to photodetector 530 via element 529, such as, but not limited to, an optical splitter or switch element, which directs light away from path Q5–T5 to photodetector 530. Photodetector 530 can determine the current output of light source 528 and compare the current output of the light source to a baseline data obtained during factory calibration to determine the health of light source 528. In some embodiments, the optical measurement detected by photodetector 526 is compared to the current output of the current detected by photodetector 530 to determine the optical loss on transmission path i.

[0070] In some embodiments, each connection between source optical device 502 and a remote optical device includes a remote monitor block and a monitor block, which may include shared elements.

[0071] In some embodiments, the monitor mechanism operates during normal operation of the optical system 500 and references the wavelength λ r Not with the wavelength λ of the service signal {service} Overlap. For example, rIt may be outside the frequency band selected for the service signal.In some embodiments, more than one reference wavelength is used.

[0072] In some embodiments, the monitor mechanism operates during normal operation of the optical system 500 and the reference wavelength λ of the monitor signal r Not with the wavelength λ of the service signal {service} For example, the reference wavelength λ r It may be outside the frequency band selected for the service signal.In some embodiments, more than one reference wavelength is used.

[0073] In some embodiments, the monitor block 518 may include circuitry and / or may share circuitry and / or resources used by other functions of the source optical device 502 (e.g., functional block 504). In some embodiments, the source optical device 502 includes one or more microprocessors (e.g., microprocessor 150) that execute one or more control instructions to perform one or more monitor control processes described herein. In some embodiments, the remote monitor block 520 is a passive optical block that includes only passive optical components. Example Optical Add / Drop Multiplexer (OADM) Node Implementation

[0074] An optical add-drop multiplexer (OADM) is an optical device used in wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) systems to multiplex and route light of different wavelengths into or out of a single optical fiber. This allows multiple communication channels with different wavelengths to propagate over the optical fiber. An OADM device typically includes an optical demultiplexer (DEMUX), an optical multiplexer (MUX), a method for reconfiguring the paths between the demultiplexer and the multiplexer, and a collection of ports for adding and removing signals. OADMs are commonly used in telecommunications networks. OADM can refer to either a fixed optical add-drop multiplexer (FOADM) or a reconfigurable optical add-drop multiplexer (ROADM).

[0075] Figure 6 An optical system with OADM nodes in an example embodiment is shown. Optical system 600 includes multiple OADM nodes, including OADM node 608. OADM node 608 is coupled to multiple other nodes in optical system 600 via at least one inter-node optical link 620-626. Inter-node optical link 620-626 includes at least one optical fiber for transmitting multiple wavelength signals to and from OADM node 608 in a unidirectional and / or bidirectional manner. Typically, one or more OADM nodes 608 are arranged in a bus, ring, star, mesh, or hybrid topology. OADM node 608 can be a terminal node in optical system 600, for example, when OADM node 608 is only connected to one inter-node optical link 620-626.

[0076] The OADM node 608 includes at least one directional device 610 to 616. The directional devices 610 to 616 route signals received via corresponding inter-node optical links 620-626 to other components within the OADM node 608, such as, but not limited to, one or more add / drop group devices 602 to 606 and / or one or more other directional devices 610 to 616. For example, the OADM node 608 may include one or more fast communication links that transmit and receive service signals directly between the directional devices 610 to 616 without adding or removing any channels.

[0077] The directional device 610 can be coupled to one or more add / drop group devices 602 to 606 via one or more optical links. The add / drop group devices 602 to 606 can perform add / drop functions on signals with different sets of wavelengths. For example, a particular directional device 610 can communicate a signal having a first set of wavelengths with the first add / drop group device 602, a signal having a second set of wavelengths with the second add / drop group device 604, and a signal having a third set of wavelengths with the third add / drop group device 606. In some embodiments, the signal assigned to a particular add / drop group device 60 is a sub-band of the frequency band used by the optical system 600. In some embodiments, the OADM node 608 has only one add / drop group device 602, and the directional devices 610 to 616 send the entire frequency band of the service signal to the single add / drop group device 602.

[0078] The add / drop group devices 602 to 606 separate and combine the channels of a specific wavelength in the received service signal. For example, the add / drop group device 602 can remove or separate the wavelength λ x The signal is transmitted through the coupling device 628 and the optical link 630 of the add-drop group devices 602 to 606. x The signal is transmitted to the device 628 and received from the device 628 via the optical link 630. x signal, and the received λ x The signal is added to a combined output signal that includes output signals at multiple wavelengths from one or more other devices. Device 628 can be an optical device, an electrical device, and / or an electro-optical device. One or more transponders, receivers, transceivers, and / or other optoelectronic and electro-optical devices can be employed to communicate with device 628.

[0079] The add / drop group device 602 can remove and add signals of multiple wavelengths (such as, but not limited to, λx) and can communicate the respective wavelength signals with multiple devices (such as, but not limited to, device 628). The add / drop group device 602 sends a combined signal including the multiple channels assigned to the add / drop group device 602 to one or more directional devices 610 to 616.

[0080] Although the OADM node 608 is illustrated as a logical device, the components of the OADM node 608 can be deployed separately. The add-drop group devices 602 to 606 are typically physically deployed independently from the directional devices 610 to 616. For example, one or more add-drop group devices 602 to 606 can be located in different slots of the same optical network device rack as one or more directional devices 610 to 616, one or more different racks of the same network device rack, one or more different locations at the same site, and / or remote from the site containing one or more directional devices 610 to 616. In some embodiments, one or more add-drop group devices 602 to 606 are located near one or more end users. In some embodiments, one or more optical links between the add-drop group devices 602 to 606 and the directional devices 610 to 616 travel through one or more optical cable systems (such as, but not limited to, one or more optical patch panels and / or optical distribution boxes).

[0081] The directional devices 610 to 616 can be well equipped with powered electrical components, such as light sources (e.g., photodiodes, laser diodes, and / or other light sources) and / or optical channel monitors (OCMs). In addition, the directional devices 610 to 616 can be tightly linked to powered optical network devices and / or network controllers, making it easier to identify and / or monitor their optical connectivity during configuration and / or operation. Alternatively, one or more of the add-drop group devices 602 to 606 can have complex connection paths to the directional devices 610 to 616 and / or other devices in the OADM node 608. In addition, one or more of the add-drop group devices 602 to 606 can be passive, without circuitry and without powered optical components.

[0082] Figure 7The directional devices and add / drop group devices in an OADM node in an example embodiment are shown. The OADM node 700 includes one or more directional devices 760 and one or more add / drop group devices 762. The directional devices can send and receive signals through one or more optical links 718-720 with one or more other directional devices (e.g., directional devices 610 to 616). For clarity of explanation, one directional device 760 and one add / drop group device 762 are described in more detail below; one or more of the described features can be applied to one or more other directional devices and / or add / drop group devices within the OADM node 700. In some embodiments, one or more directional devices 760 are source optical devices (e.g., source optical devices 102, 202, 402, 502) that include one or more identification blocks and / or one or more monitor blocks. In some embodiments, one or more add / drop group devices 762 are remote optical devices (e.g., remote optical devices 108, 208, 408, 508) that include one or more remote identification blocks and / or one or more remote monitor blocks. Without limiting the present disclosure to the example embodiments, Figures 8 and 9 Specific examples are described in .

[0083] The directional device 760 may include a DEMUX element 704 for separating the signal so that a specific subband assigned to a specific add / drop group device 762 can be directed to the specific add / drop group device 762. The DEMUX element 704 directs the set of wavelengths λ received via the communication link 720 to the subband. {service} The service signal is separated into one or more signal subsets and the separated signals are transmitted to one or more corresponding add / drop group devices 762 via one or more optical links 722-726. {i} The signal of wavelength λ is guided from DEMUX element 704 to add / drop group device 762 via communication link 722; {j} The signal is directed from the DEMUX element 704 to another add / drop group device via a communication link 724; and wavelength λ {k} The signal is directed from the DEMUX element 704 to another add / drop group device via a communication link 726.

[0084] The directional device 760 may include a MUX element 702 for combining signals from one or more add / drop group devices (e.g., add / drop group devices 602 to 606) so that the combined signals can be sent to one or more directional devices (e.g., directional devices 610 to 616) via one or more communication links 718-720. For example, the MUX element 702 may combine the following signals: {i} λ returned from another add / drop group device via communication link 724{j} and λ returned from another add / drop group device via communication link 726 {k} Signal.

[0085] In one or more embodiments, the direction device 760 may include one or more powered electrical and / or optical elements that can be used by an ID block (e.g., ID blocks 114, 214) and / or a monitor block (e.g., monitor blocks 118, 418, 518), such as a preamplifier 708, an optical channel monitor 710, a boost amplifier 706, a photodiode 712, an optical management channel 714, a variable optical attenuator, a light source, a power supply, an electronic circuit, a processor, and / or other elements including powered elements.

[0086] In the add / drop group device 762, the DEMUX element 736 separates the signals based on wavelength and directs the separated signals to multiple single wavelength optical links 728-732. Each single wavelength optical link 728-732 can carry a specific wavelength (e.g., λ) between the add / drop group device 762 and a device (e.g., device 628). a .λ b ,λ c The MUX element 734 combines the return signals received through the single wavelength optical links 728-732 so that the combined return signal can be sent to the directional device 760 through the communication link 722.

[0087] The add / drop group device 762 can be connected to one or more directional devices 760. For example, the add / drop group device 762 can be connected to one or more other directional devices (e.g., directional devices 610 to 616) via one or more optical links 752-754. For example, the add / drop group device 762 can also receive λ from other directional devices via optical links 752-754. {i} In some embodiments, signals from two or more directional devices can be directed to the MUX element 734 and the DEMUX element 736 in the add / drop group device 762. Alternatively and / or additionally, the signal from a directional device can have its own MUX element 734 and DEMUX element 736. For example, the combined signal can also be transmitted from the MUX element 734 to one or more other directional devices via communication links 752-754.

[0088] Example implementation of the node ID mechanism

[0089] Figure 8The directional devices and add / drop group devices in an OADM node implementing an ID mechanism in an example embodiment are shown. The OADM node 800 includes one or more directional devices 860 and one or more add / drop group devices 862. The directional device 860 can send signals to or receive signals from one or more other directional devices (e.g., directional devices 610 to 616) via one or more optical links 818-820. For clarity of explanation, one directional device 860 and one add / drop group device 862 are described in more detail below; one or more of the described features can be applied to one or more other directional devices and / or add / drop group devices within the OADM node 800. In some embodiments, the OADM node 800, one or more directional devices 860, and / or one or more add / drop group devices 862 include one or more elements described with respect to one or more other embodiments described herein.

[0090] The directional device 860 includes one or more ID block components, such as the light source 850 upstream of the DEMUX element 804 and / or the light source 856 downstream of the DEMUX element 804. The DEMUX element 804 converts the wavelength λ received via the communication link 820 into {service} The service signals of the set are separated into one or more signal subsets, and the separated signals are transmitted to one or more corresponding add-drop group devices 862 through one or more optical links 822-826.

[0091] In the add / drop group device 862, the DEMUX element 836 separates the signals based on wavelength and directs the separated signals to multiple single-wavelength optical links 828-832, which can couple the add / drop group device 862 to one or more devices. The MUX element 834 combines the return signals received via the single-wavelength optical links 828-832 so that the combined return signals can be sent to the directional device 860 via the optical link 822.

[0092] The ID signal is added to the transmission path of the service signal transmitted from the directional device 860 to the add / drop group device 862. The add / drop group device 862 includes one or more remote ID block components, such as elements 866-870. For example, element 866 can direct the ID signal to a bypass path including a set of WDM filters 868, and element 870 can direct the ID signal to a receive path for the service signal returning from the add / drop group device 862 to the directional device 860.

[0093] In the directional device 860, the returned ID signal is directed to the optical channel monitor (OCM) 810. The OCM 810 measures the properties of the returned ID signal, such as the wavelength of the specific returned ID signal. The OCM 810 allows the directional device 860 to determine the set of ID wavelengths λ {ID}826 have been blocked or passed, thereby allowing identification of the corresponding optical link 822. In some embodiments, after the MUX element 802 combines the signals received from one or more add / drop group devices 862 via one or more optical links 822-826, the OCM 810 receives a returned ID signal.

[0094] The add / drop group device 862 can be connected to one or more directional devices 860. For example, the add / drop group device 862 can be connected to one or more other directional devices (e.g., directional devices 610 to 616) via one or more optical links 852-854. The add / drop group device 862 can also receive ID signals and / or service signals from other directional devices via the optical links 852-854.

[0095] In add / drop group device 862, a bypass path having a collection of WDM filters can exist in each connection path between each directional device and each add / drop group device. For example, the ID signal from optical links 852-854 can pass through elements 866 to 870, or can pass through a collection of one or more similar elements. In addition, a bypass path for each directional device of OADM node 800 can exist in one or more other add / drop group devices of OADM node 800.

[0096] In some embodiments, the orientation device 860 includes one or more microprocessors (e.g., microprocessor 150) that execute one or more control instructions to perform one or more identification control processes described herein. In some embodiments, the add / drop group device 862 is a passive optical device that includes only passive optical components.

[0097] Example OADM node monitor mechanism implementation

[0098] Figure 9 The directional devices and add / drop group devices in an OADM node implementing a monitor mechanism in an example embodiment are shown. The OADM node 900 includes one or more directional devices 960 and one or more add / drop group devices 962. The directional device 960 can send signals to and receive signals from one or more other directional devices (e.g., directional devices 610 to 616) via one or more optical links 918-920. For clarity of explanation, one directional device 960 and one add / drop group device 962 are described in more detail below; one or more of the described features can be applied to one or more other directional devices and / or add / drop group devices within the OADM node 900. In some embodiments, the OADM node 900, one or more directional devices 960, and / or one or more add / drop group devices 962 include one or more elements described with respect to one or more other embodiments described herein.

[0099] The directional device 960 includes one or more monitor block components, such as for generating a reference wavelength λ r The MUX element 942 can be used to monitor the light source 940 of the monitor signal. r The monitor signal is added to one or more service signals, such as a λ having a wavelength from the set of wavelengths assigned to a particular add / drop group device 962. {i} The added monitor signal is transmitted from the directional device 960 to the add / drop group device 962 via optical link 922. The same or similar mechanism can add the reference signal to the service signal via one or more other optical links 924-926, which is sent to one or more other add / drop group devices.

[0100] Add / drop group device 962 includes one or more remote monitor block components, such as elements 944 to 946. For example, element 944 can direct the monitor signal into a bypass path, such as by using DEMUX element 944, to remove the lambda signal from the transmission path of directional device 960. r monitor signal, and the MUX element 946 converts λ r The monitor signal is added to the receive path leading to the directional device 960. The remaining service signals are processed by the add / drop group device 962, such as by the DEMUX element 936 and the MUX element 934, to separate the signals transmitted to the optical links 928-932 and to combine the signals received from the optical links 928-932.

[0101] At the orientation device 960, the returned λ r The monitor signal is evaluated. For example, the DEMUX element 948 can separate the λ from the receive path. r The monitor signals are detected and directed to the photodetector 950. The photodetector 950 evaluates the monitor signals returning from the add / drop group device 962. For example, the photodetector 950 can be used to detect the power of the returning monitor signals to determine the optical loss on the optical link 922.

[0102] The add / drop group device 962 can be connected to one or more directional devices 960. For example, the add / drop group device 962 can be connected to one or more other directional devices (e.g., directional devices 610 to 616) via one or more optical links 952-954. The add / drop group device 962 can also receive monitor signals and / or service signals from other directional devices via the optical links 952-954.

[0103] In add / drop group device 962, a bypass path can exist in each connection path between each directional device and each add / drop group device. For example, the monitor signal from optical links 952-954 can pass through elements 944 to 946, or can pass through a collection of one or more similar elements. In addition, a bypass path for each directional device of OADM node 900 can exist in one or more other add / drop group devices of OADM node 900.

[0104] In some embodiments, the orientation device 960 includes one or more microprocessors (e.g., microprocessor 150) that execute one or more control instructions to perform one or more monitor control processes described herein. In some embodiments, the add / drop group device 962 is a passive optical device that includes only passive optical components.

[0105] Other aspects of the present disclosure

[0106] The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The sole and exclusive indicator of the scope of the invention, and what is intended by the applicants to be the scope of the invention, is the literal and equivalent scope of the claims as issued in this application, in the specific form in which they issue, including any subsequent correction.

[0107] In the foregoing description, embodiments have been described with reference to specific details, which may vary with implementation. However, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The examples set forth above are provided to those of ordinary skill in the art as a complete disclosure and description of how to make and use the embodiments, but are not intended to limit the scope of their invention as the inventors believe. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications of the above-described modes for performing the methods and systems disclosed herein are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure and the appended claims. The sole and exclusive indication of the scope of the invention, and what the applicants intend as the scope of the invention, is the literal and equivalent scope of the claims (including any subsequent corrections) issued in the specific form in which the claims are issued.

Claims

1. A source optical device comprising: a plurality of optical ports configured to receive a plurality of optical links coupled to one or more remote optical devices; a light source that generates a monitor signal at a reference wavelength; at least one transmitting optical element configured to direct the monitor signal to a transmission path from the source optical device to the one or more remote optical devices through the plurality of optical links, wherein the one or more remote optical devices include one or more remote optical elements that return the monitor signal to the source optical device through corresponding optical links of the plurality of optical links; Photodetector; at least one receiving optical element configured to direct returned monitor signals received via the plurality of optical links to the photodetector; at least one microprocessor configured to execute control instructions to generate the monitor signal and process one or more outputs of the photodetector in response to the returned monitor signal to determine connectivity of the plurality of optical links; and an identification mechanism configured to generate an outgoing identification signal and to receive a returning identification signal allowing identification of said plurality of optical links, wherein said light source generates said output identification signal identifying a set of wavelengths; The at least one microprocessor is configured to identify the plurality of optical links based on the returned identification signal; and The one or more remote optical elements direct the output identification signal through a set of wavelength division multiplexing filters and return the output identification signal as the returned identification signal to the source optical device through a corresponding optical link of the plurality of optical links.

2. The source optical device according to claim 1, wherein The one or more remote optical devices are passive optical devices.

3. The source optical device according to claim 1, wherein: Determining connectivity of the plurality of optical links includes detecting a fiber disconnect or failure event on one or more optical links.

4. The source optical device according to claim 1, wherein: Determining connectivity of the plurality of optical links includes determining optical loss on one or more optical links based on reference data for the optical source.

5. The source optical device according to claim 1, in, said at least one receiving optical element returning said monitor signal comprises a demultiplexer device in each transmission path from said source optical device and a multiplexer device in each reception path to said source optical device, and Wherein, the demultiplexer device and the multiplexer device direct the monitor signal through a bypass path between each transmit path and each receive path.

6. The source optical device according to claim 1, in, the one or more remote optical elements at the one or more remote optical devices include a reflector that returns the monitor signal through one or more transmission optical link components used by one or more transmission paths, and Wherein the at least one microprocessor is configured to determine connectivity of the one or more remote optical devices.

7. The source optical device of claim 1 , further comprising: at least one additional transmit optical element configured to direct a second monitor signal at a reference wavelength to the one or more remote optical devices through one or more optical link components used by the one or more receive paths, wherein the one or more remote optical devices include a second reflector that returns the second monitor signal through the one or more optical link components used by the one or more receive paths; at least one additional receiving optical element configured to direct the returning second monitor signal to the second photodetector; and The at least one microprocessor is configured to evaluate the connectivity of the receiving optical link component based on the output of the second photodetector in response to the returned second monitor signal.

8. The source optical device of claim 1 , further comprising a second photodetector, wherein: Determining connectivity of the plurality of optical links includes determining optical loss on one or more optical links based on the current output of the optical source measured by the second photodetector.

9. The source optical device of claim 1 , wherein the identification mechanism further comprises: at least one optical element configured to direct the output identification signal to a transmission path from the source optical device to the one or more remote optical devices through the plurality of optical links; Optical channel monitor; as well as At least one optical element is configured to direct the returned identification signals received through the plurality of optical links to the optical channel monitor.

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