Network Termination Device Port Identification via Self-Service
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for identifying data ports in telecommunication networks, especially in optical and fixed access networks, are inefficient and time-consuming, often requiring manual intervention and service interruptions, which hampers deployment and maintenance processes.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a network termination device (NTD) connected to an access node to send a unique identifier through the network, which is matched with a human operator's details via a network management system, allowing for automated message delivery of data port identification information, including physical and logical locations, via SMS or mobile notification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual identification procedures are used (logging into NMS, navigating GUI, validating serial numbers), then operators can identify data ports, but the process is extremely time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing the NTD to automatically send its unique identifier through the network, and the NMS to automatically match it with operator details and send identification information via SMS or mobile notification, eliminating the need for manual GUI navigation and validation
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by automatically sending the identified port information back to the operator through SMS or mobile notification, creating a closed-loop system that confirms the identification process and provides immediate results
2Ease of operation
If network management team intervention is used to turn ports on and off for detection, then data ports can be identified, but all services on the fibre are interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The NTD performs self-identification by automatically sending its unique identifier through the network without requiring external intervention to turn ports on or off, eliminating service interruptions while maintaining identification capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing network communication infrastructure as an intermediary to transmit the unique identifier from NTD to NMS, avoiding the need for direct physical port manipulation that would interrupt services
3Extent of automation
If automated signal sending and matching is implemented, then port identification becomes efficient and automated, but requires integration of messaging modules and data matching capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves universality by using standard communication protocols and existing network infrastructure for signal transmission, and by implementing a generic data matching module that can handle different identifier types (serial numbers, MAC addresses) and multiple messaging channels (SMS, mobile notifications)
Solution Approach 2:
The NMS acts as an intermediary that mediates between the NTD and the messaging system, handling the data matching logic and coordinating the automated identification process without requiring direct integration between all system components
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a method and a system for identifying a communication port in a telecommunication network. The technology allows a field network operator to connect a network termination device (NTD) to a network access node (NAN) of the telecommunication network and automatically receive, on a mobile communication device, information related to physical and logical location of the communication port where the NTD is connected.