Methods and apparatuses for improved Ethernet path selection using optical levels

摘要

Methods and apparatuses are provided to employ an enhanced Loss of Signal (ELOS) function in network equipment (NE) such as an Ethernet switch that is coupled to an optical path by a transceiver (e.g., an SFP). Diagnostics such as optical path receive (Rx) level from the transceiver are used by the ELOS function to regenerate LOS status from the transceiver when either LOS or designated low Rx level conditions exist. By generating an enhanced LOS (ELOS) on a designated low Rx level, the ELOS function ensures a failing data path is removed before an undesirable amount of errors occur to enhance Ethernet path selection and improve Carrier Ethernet quality of service.

主权项

1. A method of enhanced monitoring for optical signal level degradation comprising:
obtaining at least one diagnostic level from a small form-factor pluggable (SFP) transceiver connected to an optical path, the diagnostic level comprising at least a SFP loss of signal (LOS) assertion level of the SFP transceiver that is designated by a SFP transceiver manufacturer and corresponds to a signal level on the optical path at which the SFP transceiver asserts a LOS indication to a host network equipment (NE) device to which the SFP transceiver is connected; determining at least one parameter corresponding to a low receive level threshold for an optical path, the low receive level threshold having a value that is above the SFP LOS assertion level by a designated amount; receiving a Receive (Rx) level for the optical path from the transceiver; determining if the received Rx level satisfies the low receive level threshold; generating an enhanced LOS (ELOS) indication when the received Rx level reaches the low receive level threshold; and asserting a LOS for the host NE device when the generation of the ELOS indication occurs, and asserting a LOS for the host NE device when the SFP transceiver asserts a LOS indication in response to detecting the Rx level at the SFP LOS assertion level.