Analysis of Client Link Utilization for DWDM Networks as a Function of Time

Proper determination of the data transmission rate for client signals in Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) systems is critical to ensuring that links are allocated with adequate bandwidth. However, it is not uncommon for a data transmission rate estimated based on theoretical data to deviate from the actual bandwidth requirements of the link. With a view to approaching Shannon’s limit in DWDM transmission, this paper proposes a procedure for checking the load status of client links as a function of time using a developed application that collects transmission data information from an operating DWDM network. The collected data allows for a more accurate estimation of the actual data traffic and hence also for more efficient use of the available resources within a DWDM C-band optical network.