Integrated DSL Test, Analysis, and Operations

This paper describes methods of integrating the digital subscriber line (DSL) automated test, data from network elements, analyses, and DSL operations, including work-force administration. Fiber-to-the-node systems using very-high-rate DSL 2 will particularly need the integrated DSL test to increase customer satisfaction and streamline operations to reduce costs. The integrated DSL test extends beyond copper tests to encompass all elements of DSL service, all through the network and at higher layers. An integrated test system queries multiple test points, including network elements, allowing physical and higher layer problems to be identified. Diagnosis, fault isolation, and even suggested reconfigurations are all automated in software. A number of techniques, which are implementable in software, are described, which can show the root cause of many intricate troubles to relatively unskilled technicians. Automated maintenance routines can isolate faults in flowthrough testing, automatically issuing trouble tickets toward the correct work center: Internet service providers, central offices, outside plants, user PCs, etc. New triple-play services have high customer expectations for easy-to-use TV and voice services, with demanding bit rates and reliability requirements that can be ensured with an integrated test.