Strategic Network Topology and a Capacity Planning Tool-Kit for Core Transmission Systems

  • Authors:
  • C. D. O'Shea

  • Affiliations:
  • -

  • Venue:
  • BT Technology Journal
  • Year:
  • 2003

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Abstract

This paper describes a ‘state-of-the-art’ network planning tool-kit for core transmission systems. The tool-kit has been used extensively within the BT Group over the past 5 years to provide a forward-looking view of the capacity requirements based on a rolling two-year forecast for the BT core transmission narrowband and broadband networks. The tool-kit also has the capability to perform ‘retrospective’ design as well as evolve the design of new networks — the only constraint being the physical infrastructure, i.e. ducts.The tool-kit provides the capability to audit designs and configuration data proposed by a network supplier. It has an in-built routing engine as well as state-of-the-art optimisation algorithms that have been applied to SDH and ATM, as well as optical WDM-based networks.Application of this functionality has had an inpact on key strategic decisions to the value of around a £15–20M saving within the BT Group over the past two years alone.