CSPs have to be always ready to install, upgrade, & troubleshoot subscriber services: Monojit Samaddar, VIAVI

The current COVID-19 pandemic has posed several challenges in maintaining networks and fibers. As a leader in fiber optic test and measurement, VIAVI Solutions is working hard to deploy network testing components, around the globe, to not only enable products to function at its best but also deploy solutions that can help remote management of the networks.

Speaking with Monojit Samaddar, Country Director, VIAVI Solutions – India, Voice&Data understands how VIAVI works closely with leading network equipment manufacturers and service providers to deliver the test and measurement solutions.

Few excerpts: 

V&D: In the current pandemic distress, telecom operators around the world are into a crisis mode to ensure that their networks can handle the unprecedented demand. What can operators do to effectively manage their network?

Monojit: As more and more networks are strained by remote working and online learning, communication service providers (CSPs) are faced with connectivity and bandwidth challenges that can significantly impact the quality of experience. CSPs need to be always ready to install, upgrade, maintain, and troubleshoot subscriber services, all while being socially responsible and safeguarding the health of their employees.

In these challenging times, CSPs should follow test and measurement processes that speed and simplify deployment and activation, reducing time spent on customer premises and limiting return visits, as well as leveraging process automation and remote troubleshooting solutions to maintain service assurance while reducing time spent in the field. To that end, CSPs can leverage technologies such as virtual activation, fiber monitoring, test process automation, and remote instrument access to help reduce or eliminate time on-premises.

Voice&Data: 5G rollout will ultimately rely on a robust ICT infrastructure. How is VIAVI working with service providers and network equipment manufacturers and supporting them through the complex journey to 5G?

Monojit: 5G technology is a significant trend that will revolutionize connectivity throughout India and the world. Yet, deployment and maintenance of complex 5G network architecture presents new challenges across the entire network. Optimization and assurance of the 5G network is crucial to delivering on the full promise of this next-generation technology.

VIAVI works closely with leading network equipment manufacturers and service providers to deliver the test and measurement solutions they need to successfully validate, verify, test and optimize the 5G network — before, during and after deployment. Plus, VIAVI enables greater workflow automation to speed and simplify testing and service activation, which is increasingly critical to ensuring robust networks as service providers manage legacy 3G / 4G infrastructure alongside 5G technology on a gradual evolution path.

Voice&Data: Fibre deployment by mobile network operators to support next-generation networks will drive demand for Fibre testing. What are the key solutions that VIAVI offers to help operators?

Monojit: Fibre is the backbone of all networks in use today, across all the different types of access technologies, including mobile transport networks. As a test and measurement supplier for fibre networks, VIAVI offers a range of optimized solutions engineered specifically for all phases of the fibre network lifecycle.

To ensure proper operation, there are several tests that should be performed during the installation and commissioning phases of the network, including connector inspection and continuity tests, as well as characterization of fronthaul and backhaul fibre links.

Voice&Data: In today’s scenario connectivity is most essential and Fibre testing is critical today for nearly every type of network. What are the best practices in Fibre Optic cable testing?

Monojit: Networks around the world are undergoing revolutionary transformation, becoming infinitely more complex. Performance requirements are more exacting and the needs for proper testing procedures are more important than ever before. When deploying and activating fibre optic networks, best practices include fibre inspection (IBYC – Inspect Before You Connect), loss measurements, fibre characterization and physical layer testing.

Once the network is in service, root cause troubleshooting and monitoring practices are key to being able to locate and address problems quickly and efficiently. These testing practices should include service layer test, remote test and fault detection, automated monitoring and strain sensing.

Voice&Data: Optical cabling is essential for today’s communication infrastructure. How important is it to have an accurate and comprehensive Fibre monitoring system in place?

Monojit: Optical cabling supports the communication infrastructure of our connected planet, yet it is susceptible to water ingress, misplaced construction digs, rodent infestations, security intrusions, and many other potential hazards. Maintaining optimal fibre condition and performance requires advanced fibre monitoring practices to identify and react to problems quickly.

Robust fibre optic monitoring systems should be capable of accurately detecting fibre faults from the source all the way to the subscriber, leading to earlier detection and precise fault location in order to reduce reaction and repair times. An integrated fibre monitoring and management system is key to facilitating the detection of faults, fibre degradation, security intrusions, alerting the system administrator in real-time when threats to fibre optic network integrity are detected.

Monitoring systems can also be used for demarcation and isolation of issues arising due to faults in network elements or due to optical fibre, and to proactively trend and analyse attenuation and other fibre optic performance metrics over time, enabling higher bandwidth and improved data integrity for users.