SDH equipment testing: an Italian experience towards standard test specifications

Managing world spreading of Synchronous Digital Hierarchy technology, nowadays and even more in the future, implies having extensive standard test procedures. SIRTI, on behalf of the Italian long distance operator IRITEL, tested STM-1 Add Drop Multiplexers and STM-16 Line Terminals provided by four different suppliers. The field-trial covered detailed testing of equipment. This paper details the test procedure we accomplished in order to fully check the functions of a single equipment. The most significant measurement set-ups are outlined, and some of the most interesting results are also shown. The test set herein presented is an attempt to build a first core of measures towards the future indispensable developing of standard test specifications