Apparatus for testing an optical network

US9002201B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• International Business Machines Corporation · US

Inventors

• Alan F. Benner · Poughkeepsie, US
• Richard B. Finch · New Paltz, US
• Jason T. Hirst · East Malling, GB
• Peter Paul Lai · Rochester, US
• Gerald G. Stanquist · Salt Point, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 3, 2013
• Grant date: Apr 7, 2015
• Expiry date: Jun 14, 2033

Classification

• Technology area (CPC H): Electricity
• CPC primary: H04B10/801
• WIPO field: Telecommunications
• WIPO sector: Electrical engineering

Abstract

For testing an optical network, a transmission module transmits a first optical power level on a first optical port of an optical assembly. The optical assembly includes the first optical port, one or more of an optical cable and an optical waveguide, and a second optical port. The optical assembly is installed in an assembled computer in a state suitable for an end user. A measurement module measures a second optical power level on the second optical port, and a determination module determines a quality level by determining if the second optical power level is below a quality threshold value. The transmission module, the measurement module, and the determination module function within an assembled computer in a state suitable for an end user.