Management of photonic systems and networks: ACTS AC 209 MEPHISTO

The ACTS 209 MEPHISTO project, started in July 1996, addresses the TMN management of photonic systems and networks. The project, which will last three years, has the ambitious goal of developing an innovative approach, TMN-compatible but specifically tailored on the needs of optics, thereby applicable to any generic-and advanced-optical technology. This innovative approach is based, however, on standardised methodologies and models, to ensure continuity with existing networks and network management. This paper aims at describing the work undertaken in the MEPHISTO project, of which brief description is provided. It defines, in cooperation with operators (FT/CNET, Telecom Italia, Telenor), manufacturers (Alcatel, Nokia), software houses (Tells Telecom, Telmat) and universities (IMEC, UPC), the requirements and specifications of the management of an optical network and the optical network elements. The layered model of the optical transport network and the information models are provided. We will focus on the development of a dedicated information model for generic optical network elements, adopting an innovative approach for optical network operation and management, and on the prototypes used to demonstrate the applicability of this model and the validation of the developed management applications