SmartDGC - Next generation open optical networks

Purpose and goal

An important purpose of Project SmartDGC was to develop transport network technology in which the idea of Embedded WDM is applied to considerably more complex network topologies than previously and to apply selected parts of SDN technology and disaggregation concepts to commercially viable products. The goals of this project was to evaluate existing initiatives and API:s as well as the operators role in a new business environment. We have concluded that it is interesting for the operators to transition from a business model we call Vendor lock-in to a open line system model.

Expected results and effects

We have analyzed the requirements on a next generation ROADM product. On the market existing initiatives regarding open transport networks (Open ROADM, Telecom Infra Project, etc.) have been analyzed. One important conclusion is that there is a need for more flexibility in the specifications to be able to build the costoptimized product the operators want. This prestudy have lead to seeing a strong potential in further development of an open ROADM product. We see strongest potential for a open ROADM solution in swedish metro environment or the foreign equivalent.

Planned approach and implementation

The requirement analysis har been perfromed through discussions, brainstorming and decision meetings. Different persons from the organisations participated during different phases of the process. There have also been some discussions without the requirement specifier (DGC/IP-only). Between the meetings Rise Acreo and Smartoptics have analyzed the available material from the initiatives for each of the requirements.