System for open fiber control propagation in multi-link fiberoptic connections

摘要

A fiberoptic communication system is presented which allows an open-link condition on one link of a multi-link fiberoptic connection to be propagated to other links of the connection while satisfying the Open Fiber Control safety standard. Each link comprises a duplex link and at least one optical repeater is employed. The at least one optical repeater is adapted to propagate an open-link condition in one link of the multiple duplex links between the links of the fiberoptic connection. Propagating the open-link condition can be accomplished using an out band signal, an electrical wrap mode, or a hybrid approach using both an out band signal and electrical wrap mode. Automatic propagation of a closed-link condition is provided once the originally opened link is closed.