Open ROADM-solution in Swedish metro/regional environment

Purpose and goal

The purpose of the project was based on 2 trends in networks that have grown strong in recent years, disaggregation and SDN automation. The main goals stated in the application were to provide an open system solution with ROADMs, an SDN-Controller that allows for configuration and to develop unique controller applications. We believe that all of these are fulfilled with the successful proof of concept we have implemented. The traffic formats supported in the solution are unique as well as supporting services between wavelength ports that are not directly connected to transponders.

Expected results and effects

The two operators who have been involved in the project have a continued interest in discussing our solution. We also have far-reaching discussions with a third Swedish and several foreign operators about how they want to build their future Metro networks. We have planned release of our solution in June 2021 and have already sold it to a customer which is very unusual in this industry. All indications are that this product will be a great success. The project has been involved in the open initiatives, a number of comments on the SDN controller and GNPy have been submitted and discussed.

Planned approach and implementation

The project had been divided into a number of work packages; ROADM element hardware, built-in software, SDN controller software and GUI software. These packages have largely been performed as expected. The hardware was delayed due to external factors and in the project we built proof of concept (POC) hardware by modifying existing units. One difference from the original project plan was that the POC itself became the grand finale of the project, which was broadcast live instead of taking place a few months before the end of the project.