Network Test Apparatus Threshold-Based Symbol Error Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network test apparatuses struggle to accurately determine pass or fail results in networks operating with errors, particularly in 400 GbE standards, due to high symbol error rates and low noise immunity, leading to labor-intensive and potentially erroneous determinations.
Innovation Solution
A network test apparatus and method that allows a specified threshold of symbol errors, enabling users to set and apply a pass or fail determination based on corrected symbol errors, using a reception unit for FEC symbols, an arithmetic processing unit for error correction, and a display unit for result visualization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If forward error correction (FEC) is applied to correct symbol errors in high-bit-rate optical signals, then communication reliability is improved, but the test determination becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of error evaluation from binary (error-free vs. erroneous) to a quantitative threshold-based system. By introducing a configurable threshold value for symbol error rates, the system allows networks to pass tests even with minor errors, accommodating different network quality requirements without increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the test determination dynamic by allowing the threshold value to be adjusted based on network conditions and requirements. The system adapts to different scenarios by changing the acceptable error margin, transforming a static pass/fail system into a flexible, condition-based determination mechanism
2Measurement precision
If a strict pass/fail determination is made based on any symbol error occurrence, then test accuracy is improved, but labor and time are increased for manual determination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the test apparatus to automatically perform pass/fail determination based on pre-set threshold values. The system compares the measured symbol error rate against the threshold and autonomously generates the test result, eliminating the need for manual analysis and reducing determination time while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the test results and symbol error rates are displayed and can be used to adjust threshold values for future tests. This closed-loop system allows operators to refine test parameters based on actual network performance data, improving both accuracy and efficiency over time
3Adaptability or versatility
If the network operates on the premise that errors will occur, then network adaptability is improved, but test result interpretation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring threshold values that define acceptable error margins before testing begins. This preparation eliminates the need for complex post-test analysis, as the system has already established clear criteria for pass/fail determination based on expected network error rates
Data Source
AI summary
An object of the present disclosure is to enable a network test even if a network is operated on the premise that an error occurs. According to the present disclosure, there is provided a network test apparatus including: a reception unit that receives a forward error correction symbol (FEC symbol) generated by using pulse amplitude modulation (PAM); a display unit; an input unit that acquires a threshold value for a pass or fail determination; and an arithmetic processing unit that corrects a symbol error of the FEC symbol received by the reception unit and performs the pass or fail determination based on the acquired threshold value by using the number of corrected symbol errors is provided, in which a result of the pass or fail determination is displayed on the display unit.