摘要 |
Practical utilization of an optical signal processor configured by combining a plurality of optical components requires configurations and methods by which reflected light arising in the processor during assembly, installation, or operation thereof can be detected reliably and immediately to enable switching of optical signal paths and recovery actions (maintenance) such as replacement and repair of components, thereby improving the reliability, availability, and service ability of the processor. The present invention provides an optical switching system configured as a combination of optical components, including multistage-connected optical switching devices each having a plurality of optical reflection monitoring functions. These functions enable reliable and immediate detection and notification of reflected light arising in the optical switching system. The invention also provides a method of monitoring and reporting reflection.
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