Optical fibre local access network software tools

Details are presented of a software package which combines the theoretical models developed in the course of a research programme with experimental data obtained from devices used in U.K. field trials of fibre in the local access network. This package could provide a rapid prototyping test-bed on which the early design and planning of the access network could be structured. The limits of optical network performance in the key areas of power budget and return loss can be assessed readily using the package as part of the design and planning process