Network Element Selection for Accurate Spectrum Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for managing cable network spectrum, such as return-path spectrum management, are inefficient and unreliable, particularly due to their reliance on composite Modulation Error Ratio (MER) measurements that do not accurately reflect the performance of all network elements, leading to unpredictable results and potential service disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A process for selecting a representative network element to perform spectral quality measurements, sorting elements by signal-to-noise ratio and applying testing pool definitions to determine a test network element that indicates the communication parameters of the majority, allowing for more accurate bandwidth management without disrupting active services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If composite MER measurements are used to evaluate network elements, then measurement coverage is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to averaging effects masking individual element performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the composite MER measurement into individual network element measurements. Instead of measuring all network elements simultaneously and averaging the results, the system divides the measurement process into separate measurements for each network element, allowing precise identification of individual element performance while maintaining comprehensive coverage of the entire network.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional return-path noise power measurements are used, then measurement simplicity is improved, but service continuity deteriorates due to channel deactivation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a measurement network element as an intermediary that performs measurements without requiring channel deactivation. This intermediary element can measure noise power and other parameters while the channel remains active for normal data transmission, thus maintaining service continuity while achieving measurement objectives.
3Quantity of substance
If packet error rate tests are used, then measurement comprehensiveness is improved, but measurement time increases due to requirements for statistically significant data collection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary actions by using measurement network elements that have pre-configured test capabilities and pre-established measurement protocols. The system prepares measurement configurations in advance and uses pre-calibrated reference signals, allowing comprehensive measurements to be completed quickly without requiring extensive data collection periods for statistical significance.
4Productivity
If single network element measurements are used, then measurement speed is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to transient conditions affecting individual measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple single network element measurements into a comprehensive measurement strategy. By measuring multiple network elements and combining the results, the system maintains the speed advantage of individual measurements while compensating for transient condition effects through aggregation and analysis of multiple data points, thus improving overall measurement reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A network element is identified from among a plurality of network elements to be used to test parameters of a network. The use of one network element to test the network provides more reliable results than using random communications from a plurality of network elements. The test network element is identified using testing pool definitions which may be provided by a network operator. The testing procedure using the single network element may use multiple pings to reduce the affect of transient responses on the network.