Nortel's Common Photonic Layer Allows DWDM to Support NGN

Nortel Networks this week took the wraps off of its Common Photonic Layer offering, a new DWDM (dense wavelength division multiplexing) optical transport platform to support converged networks across the service provider, enterprise and cable MSO (multiservice operators) markets. Nortel officials say the CPL will enable customers to minimize operational and capital costs, sustain profitability and accelerate the delivery of value-rich services.

Among the early adopters of the Common Photonic Layer is SURFnet, an education and research network organization based in the Netherlands, is using Nortel's technology to simplify its network infrastructure and drive down costs, officials say. SURFnet officials cited the Common Photonic Layer's ability to integrate a patchwork of fibers into a DWDM environment that can switch lightpaths in a flexible and dynamic manner. Several service providers and cable MSOs are currently trialing this platform, and field deployments are planned to commence in the summer of 2004.

According to officials the Common Photonic Layer simplifies DWDM optical line systems by eliminating the expensive circuitry found in most line systems today. It introduces automation and intelligence into optical line systems, making it possible to turn-up of reliable bandwidth when it is needed to support QoS-sensitive services, such as next generation services, including voice over IP (VoIP).

The Common Photonic Layer, say officials, simplifies network planning, engineering, configuration and deployment of metropolitan, regional and long-haul network applications by leveraging a series of modular building blocks designed on a common platform. As a result of these efficiencies, Nortel's internal business cases show that customers can realize significant savings, including up to 50 percent savings in footprint and power, up to 40 percent time savings on system activation, and up to 93 percent savings in system optimization.