Advanced Optical Switches should support remote fiber management with various switch sizes ranging from smaller to larger port counts. The switch may have various input/output port ratios including 1xN, NxN, and NxM, where N and M are integers. Selecting which type of switch depends on specific application needs. Advanced Optical Switches also offer controlled access, alarm management and stored connectivity information in a database that is synchronized with the physical connections.

This depends on the application in question and on individual customer needs. The AFCS white papers and application presentations provide assistance and it is recommended that they be reviewed. 

Optical Switches may come with one or more communication interfaces to support management capabilities. Examples may include an RS232 interface for local onsite management and/or a LAN interface for remote management. Although an RS232 interface may also support remote management via modem.

Management software is typically available as a Command Line Interface (CLI) and/or as a graphical Element Management System (EMS). Both allow users to manage the switch, and each has advantages in specific situations. It is also possible to use, customize, or develop northbound interfaces to manage Optical Switches from an Operation Support System (OSS) to meet specific customer requirements.

Yes, management software for Optical Switches typically makes use of Username & Password controls to limit authorized user access and to block unauthorized users.

Optical Switches generally support the ability to generate hardware and/or software based alarms to inform users of possible problems. This allows users to quickly and efficiently take corrective actions.

The Forum discusses general topics that promote Advanced Optical Switches as a whole, but does not compare or take positions regarding one vendor technology versus another. It is the intent of the AFCS Forum to share information so that readers can make informed decisions and to better understand how Advanced Optical Switches may benefit them. Visitors to the AFCS web site are encouraged to make use of the Forum for education purposes, and to also visit member web sites for further product specific details.