CA2672576A1 - Rfid systems and methods for optical fiber network deployment and maintenance - Google Patents
Rfid systems and methods for optical fiber network deployment and maintenance Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2672576A1 CA2672576A1 CA002672576A CA2672576A CA2672576A1 CA 2672576 A1 CA2672576 A1 CA 2672576A1 CA 002672576 A CA002672576 A CA 002672576A CA 2672576 A CA2672576 A CA 2672576A CA 2672576 A1 CA2672576 A1 CA 2672576A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- ofn
- cable
- rfid tag
- data
- rfid
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04Q—SELECTING
- H04Q11/00—Selecting arrangements for multiplex systems
- H04Q11/0001—Selecting arrangements for multiplex systems using optical switching
- H04Q11/0062—Network aspects
- H04Q11/0067—Provisions for optical access or distribution networks, e.g. Gigabit Ethernet Passive Optical Network (GE-PON), ATM-based Passive Optical Network (A-PON), PON-Ring
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L12/00—Data switching networks
- H04L12/66—Arrangements for connecting between networks having differing types of switching systems, e.g. gateways
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L41/00—Arrangements for maintenance, administration or management of data switching networks, e.g. of packet switching networks
- H04L41/08—Configuration management of networks or network elements
- H04L41/0803—Configuration setting
- H04L41/0806—Configuration setting for initial configuration or provisioning, e.g. plug-and-play
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L41/00—Arrangements for maintenance, administration or management of data switching networks, e.g. of packet switching networks
- H04L41/08—Configuration management of networks or network elements
- H04L41/085—Retrieval of network configuration; Tracking network configuration history
- H04L41/0853—Retrieval of network configuration; Tracking network configuration history by actively collecting configuration information or by backing up configuration information
- H04L41/0856—Retrieval of network configuration; Tracking network configuration history by actively collecting configuration information or by backing up configuration information by backing up or archiving configuration information
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L41/00—Arrangements for maintenance, administration or management of data switching networks, e.g. of packet switching networks
- H04L41/08—Configuration management of networks or network elements
- H04L41/0876—Aspects of the degree of configuration automation
- H04L41/0886—Fully automatic configuration
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L41/00—Arrangements for maintenance, administration or management of data switching networks, e.g. of packet switching networks
- H04L41/12—Discovery or management of network topologies
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L43/00—Arrangements for monitoring or testing data switching networks
- H04L43/08—Monitoring or testing based on specific metrics, e.g. QoS, energy consumption or environmental parameters
- H04L43/0805—Monitoring or testing based on specific metrics, e.g. QoS, energy consumption or environmental parameters by checking availability
- H04L43/0811—Monitoring or testing based on specific metrics, e.g. QoS, energy consumption or environmental parameters by checking availability by checking connectivity
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L43/00—Arrangements for monitoring or testing data switching networks
- H04L43/08—Monitoring or testing based on specific metrics, e.g. QoS, energy consumption or environmental parameters
- H04L43/0823—Errors, e.g. transmission errors
- H04L43/0829—Packet loss
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04Q—SELECTING
- H04Q11/00—Selecting arrangements for multiplex systems
- H04Q11/0001—Selecting arrangements for multiplex systems using optical switching
- H04Q11/0062—Network aspects
- H04Q2011/0079—Operation or maintenance aspects
Abstract
An optical-fiber-network (OFN) radio-frequency identification (RFID) system for deploying and/or maintaining an OFN. The system includes a plurality of OFN components, and at least one RFID tag that includes RFID tag data that has at least one property of the OFN component associated with the RFID tag. The RFID tag data is written to and read from the RFID tags prior, during or after deploying the OFN components. An OFN-component-data database unit is used to store and process the RFID tag data. This allows for different maps of the OFN to be made, such as an inventory map and a maintenance map. The OFN-RFID system allows for automated operations and management of OFN components by service personnel, and provides for faster and more accurate OFN system deployment and maintenance.
Description
RFID SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPTICAL FIBER NETWORK
DEPLOYMENT AND MAINTENANCE
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention [0001] The present invention relates to optical-fiber-based communication systems and networks, and particularly to systems and methods of deploying and maintaining optical fiber networks using radio-frequency identification (RFID) systems and methods.
Technical Background Optical networks [0002] The typical optical fiber network (OFN) includes one or more central offices (COs), one or more remote nodes (RNs) connected to the COs by corresponding optical fiber links, a number of network interface devices (NIDs) coupled to respective RNs by corresponding optical fiber links, and a number of termination points coupled to the NIDs by additional optical fiber links. There are a number of different types of OFNs. One general type of OFN
is called an active point-to-point architecture, which includes the Home Run Fiber (HRF) and Active Star Ethernet (ASE). Another general type of OFN is called a passive point-to-multipoint architecture, which includes the Passive Optical Network (PON). A
PON has no active components between the CO and the termination location to which the service is delivered. Because of the different termination options for an OFN, for simplicity the abbreviated expression "fiber to the x" (FTTx) has been adopted, wherein the "x" represents the particular termination point. The termination point may be, for example, a "premise," a home, the "curb," or a "node." Thus, in the acronym-intensive language of OFNs, a PON
architecture used to provide service to one or more homes is abbreviated as FTTH-PON. The details of the particular FTTx network architecture used depends on the termination point and the service goals of the network, as well as on network cost and the existing optical fiber related infrastructure ("outside plant" or OSP). The deployment and maintenance of an OFN
is an equipment-intensive and labor-intensive undertaking. A network service provider that receives the various components for the network from one or more manufacturers typically installs an OFN. The various OFN components (e.g., cabinets, terminals, enclosures, patch panel ports, optical fiber cable, optical fiber cable connectors, hardware, equipment, etc.) must be received, installed, inventoried, and maintained in an organized manner.
DEPLOYMENT AND MAINTENANCE
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention [0001] The present invention relates to optical-fiber-based communication systems and networks, and particularly to systems and methods of deploying and maintaining optical fiber networks using radio-frequency identification (RFID) systems and methods.
Technical Background Optical networks [0002] The typical optical fiber network (OFN) includes one or more central offices (COs), one or more remote nodes (RNs) connected to the COs by corresponding optical fiber links, a number of network interface devices (NIDs) coupled to respective RNs by corresponding optical fiber links, and a number of termination points coupled to the NIDs by additional optical fiber links. There are a number of different types of OFNs. One general type of OFN
is called an active point-to-point architecture, which includes the Home Run Fiber (HRF) and Active Star Ethernet (ASE). Another general type of OFN is called a passive point-to-multipoint architecture, which includes the Passive Optical Network (PON). A
PON has no active components between the CO and the termination location to which the service is delivered. Because of the different termination options for an OFN, for simplicity the abbreviated expression "fiber to the x" (FTTx) has been adopted, wherein the "x" represents the particular termination point. The termination point may be, for example, a "premise," a home, the "curb," or a "node." Thus, in the acronym-intensive language of OFNs, a PON
architecture used to provide service to one or more homes is abbreviated as FTTH-PON. The details of the particular FTTx network architecture used depends on the termination point and the service goals of the network, as well as on network cost and the existing optical fiber related infrastructure ("outside plant" or OSP). The deployment and maintenance of an OFN
is an equipment-intensive and labor-intensive undertaking. A network service provider that receives the various components for the network from one or more manufacturers typically installs an OFN. The various OFN components (e.g., cabinets, terminals, enclosures, patch panel ports, optical fiber cable, optical fiber cable connectors, hardware, equipment, etc.) must be received, installed, inventoried, and maintained in an organized manner.
[0003] In OFN deployment, there is the need to positively identify and characterize the OFN components. This applies to the cabling (aerial or buried) as well as to the other aforementioned OFN components. Currently this process is carried out by visual identification, using foot markers printed on outside cable jackets, and color-coding and labeling of connectors, ports, enclosures, etc. During the initial installation as well as during operations and maintenance, significant time is spent associating the various OFN
components and their characteristics to an inventory database, which is updated manually.
Besides the extra time spent, there is a high risk of errors due to misidentification, database entry errors or failures to correctly update the database.
components and their characteristics to an inventory database, which is updated manually.
Besides the extra time spent, there is a high risk of errors due to misidentification, database entry errors or failures to correctly update the database.
[0004] An OFN is typically deployed over a relatively large geographical area, with the optical fiber cables and other ONF components being installed either below ground or above ground. Thus, the ability to quickly locate and identify the various network components and obtain information about their installation and operating status can provide significant labor and cost savings with regard to deploying and maintaining the OFN, and can increase OFN
uptime.
Radio-frequency identification [0005] Radio-frequency identification (RFID) is a remote recognition technique that utilizes RFID tags having microcircuits adapted to store information and perform basic signal processing. The stored information is retrievable via RF communication between the RFID
tag and a RFID tag reader. The typical RFID system utilizes a RFID tag reader (e.g., hand-held) that when brought sufficiently close to a RFID tag is able to read a RFID tag signal emitted by the tag, usually in response to an interrogation signal from the RFID tag reader.
One form of RFID tag relies on the interrogation signal from the RFID reader to provide power to the tag. Other forms of RFID tags have internal power sources.
uptime.
Radio-frequency identification [0005] Radio-frequency identification (RFID) is a remote recognition technique that utilizes RFID tags having microcircuits adapted to store information and perform basic signal processing. The stored information is retrievable via RF communication between the RFID
tag and a RFID tag reader. The typical RFID system utilizes a RFID tag reader (e.g., hand-held) that when brought sufficiently close to a RFID tag is able to read a RFID tag signal emitted by the tag, usually in response to an interrogation signal from the RFID tag reader.
One form of RFID tag relies on the interrogation signal from the RFID reader to provide power to the tag. Other forms of RFID tags have internal power sources.
[0006] The data encoded into a RFID tag can generally be written at a distance, and some types of RFID tags can be re-written multiple times. Each RFID application has its own unique issues and circumstances that require the RFID system to be engineered accordingly.
[0007] In view of the above-described issues associated with the deployment and maintenance of OFNs and the benefits of RFID technology, there is a need for systems and methods that integrate RFID technology with OFNs to facilitate OFN deployment and maintenance.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] One aspect of the invention is a RFID method of deploying and/or maintaining an OFN. The method includes providing at least one RFID tag on at least one OFN
component of a plurality of OFN components that constitute the OFN. The method also includes writing, to at least one RFID tag, data relating to at least one property of the corresponding OFN
component. The method further includes recording and storing the OFN component data in an OFN-component-data database unit.
component of a plurality of OFN components that constitute the OFN. The method also includes writing, to at least one RFID tag, data relating to at least one property of the corresponding OFN
component. The method further includes recording and storing the OFN component data in an OFN-component-data database unit.
[0009] Another aspect of the invention is a RFID system for deploying and/or maintaining an OFN. The system includes at least one RFID tag affixed to at least one OFN
component of a plurality of OFN components that constitute the OFN, wherein the at least one RFID tag affixed to the at least one OFN component contains OFN component data that relates to at least one property of the OFN component. The system also includes at least one RFID tag reader adapted to read the OFN component data from the at least one RFID tag.
The system further includes an OFN component data database unit adapted to receive and store OFN
component data read by the at least one RFID tag reader.
component of a plurality of OFN components that constitute the OFN, wherein the at least one RFID tag affixed to the at least one OFN component contains OFN component data that relates to at least one property of the OFN component. The system also includes at least one RFID tag reader adapted to read the OFN component data from the at least one RFID tag.
The system further includes an OFN component data database unit adapted to receive and store OFN
component data read by the at least one RFID tag reader.
[0010] Another aspect of the invention is a RFID system for deploying and/or maintaining an optical fiber network (OFN) that is optically coupled to a central office (CO). The system includes at least one feeder-cable RFID tag fixed to a feeder cable that is optically coupled to the CO, with the at least one feeder-cable RFID tag having feeder-cable data relating to one or more properties of the feeder cable. The system also includes at least one local convergence point (LCP) RFID tag fixed to a local convergence point (LCP) that is operably connected to the feeder cable, with the at least one LCP RFID tag having LCP data relating to one or more properties of the LCP. The system further includes at least one distribution-cable RFID tag fixed to a distribution cable that is operably coupled to the LCP, with the at least one distribution-cable RFID tag having distribution-cable data relating to one or more properties of the distribution cable. The system also includes at least one network access point (NAP) RFID tag fixed to a NAP that is operably coupled to the LCP via the distribution cable, with the at least one NAP RFID tag having NAP data relating to one or more properties of the NAP. The system additionally includes at least one network interface device (NID) RFID tag fixed to a NID that is operably coupled to the LCP via a drop cable, with the at least one NAP
RFID tag having NID data relating to one or more properties of the NID. The system further includes one or more RFID tag readers adapted to read at least one of the feeder-cable RFID
tags, the LCP RFID tags, the distribution-cable RFID tags, the NAP RFID tags, and the NID
RFID tags, and provide corresponding feeder-cable data, LCP data, distribution-cable data, NAP data, and NID data. The system also includes an OFN component database unit adapted to receive and store the feeder-cable data, the LCP data, the distribution-cable data, the NAP
data and the NID data.
RFID tag having NID data relating to one or more properties of the NID. The system further includes one or more RFID tag readers adapted to read at least one of the feeder-cable RFID
tags, the LCP RFID tags, the distribution-cable RFID tags, the NAP RFID tags, and the NID
RFID tags, and provide corresponding feeder-cable data, LCP data, distribution-cable data, NAP data, and NID data. The system also includes an OFN component database unit adapted to receive and store the feeder-cable data, the LCP data, the distribution-cable data, the NAP
data and the NID data.
[0011] Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the following detailed description, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the invention as described herein, including the following detailed description, the claims, as well as the appended drawings.
[0012] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present embodiments of the invention, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the invention as it is claimed. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various embodiments of the invention, and together with the description serve to explain the principles and operations of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is a general schematic diagram of an example embodiment of an OFN-RFID
system according to the present invention, wherein the OFN is shown in the form of an FTTx-PON;
system according to the present invention, wherein the OFN is shown in the form of an FTTx-PON;
[0014] FIG. 2 is a detailed schematic diagram of an example embodiment of the central office (CO) of the OFN-RFID system of FIG. 1;
[0015] FIG. 3 is a detailed schematic diagram of an example embodiment of a local convergence point (LCP) of the OFN-RFID system of FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 4 is a detailed schematic diagram of an example embodiment of a network access point (NAP) of the OFN-RFID system of FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a detailed schematic diagram of an example embodiment of a RFID tag attached to a general OFN component, and also showing the details of an example RFID tag reader and an example database unit in operable communication therewith;
[0018] FIG. 6 is a schematic front-on view of an example splitter module rack that houses three splitter modules, wherein each splitter module includes a splitter-module RFID tag;
[0019] FIG. 7 is a schematic front-on view of a single splitter module of FIG.
6, showing an example embodiment wherein each port has an associated port RFID tag;
6, showing an example embodiment wherein each port has an associated port RFID tag;
[0020] FIG. 8 is a schematic front-on view of an example patch-panel rack that houses six patch panels, wherein each patch panel includes a patch-panel RFID tag;
[0021] FIG. 9 is a close-up view of one of the patch panels of FIG. 8, illustrating the patch-panel ports and the patch-panel RFID tag;
[0022] FIG. 10 shows an example embodiment of an interactive OFN-RFID map as shown on the display of the database unit;
[0023] FIG. 11 illustrates an example embodiment wherein an OFN-RFID
interactive map is shown along with a geographical map;
interactive map is shown along with a geographical map;
[0024] FIG. 12 shows an example information table as displayed on the database unit display when the cursor "clicks on" a distribution-cable RFID tag icon in the OFN-RFID map of FIG. 10;
[0025] FIG. 13 shows an example maintenance log table as displayed on the database unit display when the cursor "clicks on" the maintenance log icon of the information table of FIG. 12;
[0026] FIG. 14 shows the interactive OFN-RFID map of FIG. 10, but with the cursor moved to a the LCP active icon; and [0027] FIG. 15 shows an example of a more detailed interactive map of the LCP
and its components as displayed when the LCP icon in the OFN-RFID map of FIG. 14 is clicked on.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODINIENTS
and its components as displayed when the LCP icon in the OFN-RFID map of FIG. 14 is clicked on.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODINIENTS
[0028] Reference is now made to the present preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which is/are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, the same reference numbers or letters are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.
[0029] The term "OFN component" as used herein is generally any component used in any type of OFN, and includes but is not limited to: a feeder cable, a distribution cable, a drop cable, a network access point (NAP), an enclosure, a splice box, a cabinet, a terminal, a patch panel, a patch cord, a fiber connector, an optical splitter, a splitter module, a coupler, an optical amplifier, a wavelength multiplexer, a wavelength demultiplexer, an optical line terminal, a filter, a light source, an optical receiver, an optical transmitter, an intrafacility cable, a local convergence point (LCP), a network interface device (NID), a fiber distribution frame (FDF), an equipment module, or any other OFN-related hardware, including fiber-related hardware.
[0030] In the discussion below, the term "data" is used in the singular and represents a collection of one or more pieces of information. The term "RFID tag data"
refers to data stored in or to be stored in a RFID tag, which data contains at least one property of the corresponding OFN component associated with the RFID tag.
refers to data stored in or to be stored in a RFID tag, which data contains at least one property of the corresponding OFN component associated with the RFID tag.
[0031] Also, the term "electromagnetic signals" as used to describe the signals communicated between a RFID tag and a RFID reader includes free-space radio waves as well as magnetic inductive coupling.
[0032] For the sake of convenience, the following is a list of the acronyms used in this application:
[0033] OFN = optical fiber network [0034] CO = central office [0035] RFID = radio-frequency identification.
[0036] PON = passive optical network.
[0037] FTTx = "fiber-to-the-x," where "x" is the fiber cable endpoint.
[0038] LCP = local convergence point [0039] NAP = network access point [0040] NID = network interface device [0041] GPS = global positioning system [0042] OLT = optical line terminal [0043] OSP = outside plant [0044] GUI = graphical user interface [0045] FDF = fiber distribution frame [0046] dB = decibels The OFN-RFID system [0047] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an example embodiment of an OFN-RFID
system 6 according to the present invention. OFN-RFID system 6 is interfaced with one or more components Co of an OFN 10 via one or more RFID tags T,,, as described below. OFN-RFID system 6 is adapted to facilitate deploying and/or maintaining an OFN 10 by a service provider and their service personnel. OFN 10 as presented in FIG. 1 is in the form of a FTTx-PON for the sake of illustration. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention is generally applicable to all of the different types of active and passive OFNs and their respective physical plants.
system 6 according to the present invention. OFN-RFID system 6 is interfaced with one or more components Co of an OFN 10 via one or more RFID tags T,,, as described below. OFN-RFID system 6 is adapted to facilitate deploying and/or maintaining an OFN 10 by a service provider and their service personnel. OFN 10 as presented in FIG. 1 is in the form of a FTTx-PON for the sake of illustration. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention is generally applicable to all of the different types of active and passive OFNs and their respective physical plants.
[0048] With reference to FIG. 1, OFN 10 includes one or more COs 20, which is the main switching facility of the OFN. OFN 10 is shown with a single CO 20 for ease of illustration.
Coupled to CO 20 are a number of external networks EN, such as for example the Intetnet IN
for data and video services, and a public switched telephone network (PSTN) for telephone services, and a cable TV network (CATV) for entertainment video services.
External networks EN provide CO 20 with external network signals SE that are distributed via the operation of the CO to select user sites (subscribers) of the OFN. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an example embodiment of CO 20 that includes a number of OFN
components adapted to take incoming exteinal network signals SE and establish temporary connections to select optical fibers in the OFN in order provide the external network signals to the OFN
subscribers. CO 20 includes, for example, an optical line terminal (OLT) 26 that interfaces with the external networks EN. OLT 26 is adapted to processes external signals SE and send them to a fiber distribution frame (FDF) 30 via a cross-connect patch cord 36.
FDF 30 is connected to a fiber entrance cabinet 40 via an intrafacility cable 46. Fiber entrance cabinet 40 is connected to the outside cable plant (OSP), i.e., feeder cables 50 and the rest of the OFN, as discussed below.
Coupled to CO 20 are a number of external networks EN, such as for example the Intetnet IN
for data and video services, and a public switched telephone network (PSTN) for telephone services, and a cable TV network (CATV) for entertainment video services.
External networks EN provide CO 20 with external network signals SE that are distributed via the operation of the CO to select user sites (subscribers) of the OFN. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an example embodiment of CO 20 that includes a number of OFN
components adapted to take incoming exteinal network signals SE and establish temporary connections to select optical fibers in the OFN in order provide the external network signals to the OFN
subscribers. CO 20 includes, for example, an optical line terminal (OLT) 26 that interfaces with the external networks EN. OLT 26 is adapted to processes external signals SE and send them to a fiber distribution frame (FDF) 30 via a cross-connect patch cord 36.
FDF 30 is connected to a fiber entrance cabinet 40 via an intrafacility cable 46. Fiber entrance cabinet 40 is connected to the outside cable plant (OSP), i.e., feeder cables 50 and the rest of the OFN, as discussed below.
[0049] With reference again to FIG. 1, OFN 10 also includes at least one feeder cable 50, with each feeder cable optically coupled at one end to CO 20 and at the opposite end to a local convergence point (LCP) 100. Feeder cable 50 may have over 100 optical fibers 52.
[0050] OFN 10 also includes one or more distribution cables 110 operably coupled to a given LCP 100, with each distribution cable including one or more optical fibers 112. Note that feeder cable(s) 50 and distribution cable(s) 110 may be either buried or supported above ground.
[0051] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an example LCP 100. LCP 100 includes a distribution cabinet 120 that houses a splitter module 130 having a number of ports P. A
typical number of ports is either 16, 32 or 64. Splitter module 130 includes one or more splitters (not shown). LCP 100 also includes a patch panel 140 that terminates optical fibers 52 in feeder cable 50 and facilitates access thereto by splitter module 130.
[0052] With reference again to FIG. 1, OFN 6 includes at least one network access point (NAP) 200, with each optically connected to a corresponding LCP 100 via a corresponding distribution cable 110. OFN 6 also includes one or more drop cables 220 operably coupled to NAP 200. Each optical drop cable 220 includes one or more optical fibers 222.
typical number of ports is either 16, 32 or 64. Splitter module 130 includes one or more splitters (not shown). LCP 100 also includes a patch panel 140 that terminates optical fibers 52 in feeder cable 50 and facilitates access thereto by splitter module 130.
[0052] With reference again to FIG. 1, OFN 6 includes at least one network access point (NAP) 200, with each optically connected to a corresponding LCP 100 via a corresponding distribution cable 110. OFN 6 also includes one or more drop cables 220 operably coupled to NAP 200. Each optical drop cable 220 includes one or more optical fibers 222.
[0053] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an example embodiment of NAP 200. NAP
includes a distribution cabinet 120 that houses passive optical components, such as patch panel(s) 140 that includes splice trays and/or connector ports for receiving a preconnectorized distribution cable 110 and a preconnectorized drop cable 220. For the sake of illustration, connector ports P are shown. Patch panel 140 serves to distribute incoming signals from the individual optical fiber 112 of distribution cable 110 to one or more drop cables 220 and the individual optical fibers 222 therein. Other example embodiments of NAPs 200 may include other OFN components, such splitters 130, making them similar to LCPs 100 of FIG. 3.
includes a distribution cabinet 120 that houses passive optical components, such as patch panel(s) 140 that includes splice trays and/or connector ports for receiving a preconnectorized distribution cable 110 and a preconnectorized drop cable 220. For the sake of illustration, connector ports P are shown. Patch panel 140 serves to distribute incoming signals from the individual optical fiber 112 of distribution cable 110 to one or more drop cables 220 and the individual optical fibers 222 therein. Other example embodiments of NAPs 200 may include other OFN components, such splitters 130, making them similar to LCPs 100 of FIG. 3.
[0054] With reference again to FIG. 1, each drop cable 220 is optically coupled to a network interface device (NID) 300. NID 300 (also called a network interface unit, or NIU) is located at a user site 310. NID 300 includes electrical and/or optical components (not shown) that enables a user at user site 310 to connect to OFN 6.
RFID tags in OFN-RFID system [0055] With continuing reference to FIG. 1, OFN-RFID system 6 includes at least one RFID tag provided to (e.g., fixed or otherwise attached to) at least one OFN
component, and at least one RFID tag reader 400 adapted to read RFID tags. OFN-RFID system 6 also includes an OFN component data database unit 410 (hereinafter, "database unit") in operable communication with RFID tag reader 400. To associate RFID tags with given components, the reference letter T. is used to represent a RFID tag, where the subscript "n" is the reference number of the corresponding OFN component, generally referred by the reference letter C.
RFID tags in OFN-RFID system [0055] With continuing reference to FIG. 1, OFN-RFID system 6 includes at least one RFID tag provided to (e.g., fixed or otherwise attached to) at least one OFN
component, and at least one RFID tag reader 400 adapted to read RFID tags. OFN-RFID system 6 also includes an OFN component data database unit 410 (hereinafter, "database unit") in operable communication with RFID tag reader 400. To associate RFID tags with given components, the reference letter T. is used to represent a RFID tag, where the subscript "n" is the reference number of the corresponding OFN component, generally referred by the reference letter C.
[0056] FIG. 5 is a detailed schematic diagram of an example embodiment of a RFID tag To attached to OFN component Co (e.g., RFID tag T200 attached to NAP 200 as shown in FIG. 1 and in FIG. 4). FIG. 5 also shows details of RFID tag reader 400 and Database unit 410.
RFID tag To includes a microcircuit 450 (e.g., in the form of a microchip) electrically connected to a memory unit 452 and to a receive/transmit antenna 454. Memory unit 452 is adapted to store information ("RFID tag data"), which includes at least one property of the associated OFN component, but more typically includes a number of such properties. Typical RFID tag data includes, for example, the type of component to which the RFID
tag is affixed, the component manufacturer, the manufacturer part number, the date of component manufacture, the date of component installation, the component's operational status, component maintenance information and history, component location in the OFN
(e.g., global positioning system (GPS) coordinates), a part or other identification number, and so on.
RFID tag To includes a microcircuit 450 (e.g., in the form of a microchip) electrically connected to a memory unit 452 and to a receive/transmit antenna 454. Memory unit 452 is adapted to store information ("RFID tag data"), which includes at least one property of the associated OFN component, but more typically includes a number of such properties. Typical RFID tag data includes, for example, the type of component to which the RFID
tag is affixed, the component manufacturer, the manufacturer part number, the date of component manufacture, the date of component installation, the component's operational status, component maintenance information and history, component location in the OFN
(e.g., global positioning system (GPS) coordinates), a part or other identification number, and so on.
[0057] Microcircuit 450 is adapted to receive an electromagnetic RFID-tag interrogation signal SI" emitted by RFID reader via antenna 480 and to process this signal.
The processing includes comparing the received interrogation signal SI" to a corresponding bit sequence stored value in memory unit 452. In an example embodiment, microcircuit 450 is adapted to use the energy in the interrogation signal to power itself. If the content of the received interrogation signal SI" is confirmed, then microcircuit 450 is adapted to generate a RFID tag signal STõ representative of the stored RFID tag data and to transmit this signal to RFID
reader 400 as an electromagnetic tag signal STõ" to be read by RFID tag reader 400.
The processing includes comparing the received interrogation signal SI" to a corresponding bit sequence stored value in memory unit 452. In an example embodiment, microcircuit 450 is adapted to use the energy in the interrogation signal to power itself. If the content of the received interrogation signal SI" is confirmed, then microcircuit 450 is adapted to generate a RFID tag signal STõ representative of the stored RFID tag data and to transmit this signal to RFID
reader 400 as an electromagnetic tag signal STõ" to be read by RFID tag reader 400.
[0058] In an example embodiment, one or more of the RFID tags are adapted to generate electromagnetic RFID tag signals at a frequency that is not significantly affected by soil or water, such as in the frequency range from 100 KHz to 125 KHz. This is so that the RFID tag signal can be read even though the corresponding OFN component is buried underground or covered by water. Here, the electromagnetic RFID tag signals are based on magnetic inductive coupling. Suitable RFID tags and associated RFID tag readers are available from 3M Corporation.
[0059] Also in an example embodiment, at least some of the RFID tags are adapted to generate RFID tag signals at a frequency suitable for long-range RFID-tag reading, such at the 915 MHz band or the 2.45 GHz band. Such RFID tags are best suited for aerial or aboveground OFN components, or more generally for OFN components that are not buried or otherwise obstructed by an intervening RF-frequency-absorbing medium. Suitable RFID tags are available from Alien Technologies, Inc., as Model Nos. ALL-9440 and ALL-9350.
[0060] In an example embodiment, RFID tag reader 400 and one or more of RFID
tags To are adapted with encryption capability so that the interrogation signal and the RFID tag signal can be encrypted to prevent third parties from reading or overwriting RFID tag data.
Example RFID tag reader [0061] With continuing reference to FIG. 5, an example embodiment of RFID tag reader 400 includes a receive/transmit antenna 480, a signal processing circuit 482 electrically connected thereto, and a memory unit 484 electrically connected to the signal processing circuit. RFID tag reader 400 also includes other electronic components that not essential to the present invention and so are not shown. In an example embodiment, RFID tag reader 400 includes a GPS circuit 486 adapted to provide GPS data to signal processing circuit 482 and/or to memory unit 484.
tags To are adapted with encryption capability so that the interrogation signal and the RFID tag signal can be encrypted to prevent third parties from reading or overwriting RFID tag data.
Example RFID tag reader [0061] With continuing reference to FIG. 5, an example embodiment of RFID tag reader 400 includes a receive/transmit antenna 480, a signal processing circuit 482 electrically connected thereto, and a memory unit 484 electrically connected to the signal processing circuit. RFID tag reader 400 also includes other electronic components that not essential to the present invention and so are not shown. In an example embodiment, RFID tag reader 400 includes a GPS circuit 486 adapted to provide GPS data to signal processing circuit 482 and/or to memory unit 484.
[0062] Signal processing circuit 482 is adapted to generate interrogation signal SI and transmit it via antenna 480 to RFID tag Tõ as an electromagnetic interrogation signal SI".
Signal processing circuit 482 is also adapted to write information to RFID tag To based on information either stored in memory unit 484, entered into the RFID tag reader directly by a user, or communicated to it from database unit 410, as described below.
Signal processing circuit 482 is also adapted to write information to RFID tag To based on information either stored in memory unit 484, entered into the RFID tag reader directly by a user, or communicated to it from database unit 410, as described below.
[0063] RFID tag reader 400 is also adapted to receive electromagnetic RFID tag signal STo" via antenna 480, which converts this signal back to electrical RFID tag signal STo.
Signal processing circuit 482 is further adapted to extract the RFID tag data from this signal and store this data in memory unit 484 and/or transmit this data to database unit 410.
Example database unit [0064] In an example embodiment, RFID tag reader 400 is operably coupled to database unit 410 so that it can transmit information to and receive information from the database unit.
In an example embodiment, database unit 410 includes a second transmit/receive antenna 494 used to wirelessly communicate with RFID tag reader 400, through a Wi-Fi network or through the cellular phone network, as examples. In another example embodiment, database unit 410 is operably coupled to RFID tag reader 400 via a non-wireless (e.g., an electrical or optical) communication link 492, such as an Ethernet link.
Signal processing circuit 482 is further adapted to extract the RFID tag data from this signal and store this data in memory unit 484 and/or transmit this data to database unit 410.
Example database unit [0064] In an example embodiment, RFID tag reader 400 is operably coupled to database unit 410 so that it can transmit information to and receive information from the database unit.
In an example embodiment, database unit 410 includes a second transmit/receive antenna 494 used to wirelessly communicate with RFID tag reader 400, through a Wi-Fi network or through the cellular phone network, as examples. In another example embodiment, database unit 410 is operably coupled to RFID tag reader 400 via a non-wireless (e.g., an electrical or optical) communication link 492, such as an Ethernet link.
[0065] Database unit 410 includes a microprocessor 500 operably connected thereto, a memory unit 510 operably coupled to the microprocessor, and a display 520 operably coupled to the microprocessor. In an example embodiment, database unit 410 is or otherwise includes a computer, such as a laptop computer, personal computer or workstation. In an example embodiment, database unit 410 is mobile (e.g., as a laptop computer or hand-held device) and is brought out to the field so as to be accessible to those working in the field to deploy or maintain OFN 10. Also in an example embodiment, database unit 410 supports a graphical user interface (GUI) so that a database-unit user can view graphical images and interact with interactive graphical images on display 520.
[0066] In an example embodiment, RFID tag reader 400 transmits RFID tag data to database unit 410 either non-wirelessly via a non-wireless data signal SD sent over communication link 492, or wirelessly via electromagnetic data signal SD".
Database unit 410 then stores and processes the RFID tag data, such as described below.
Database unit 410 then stores and processes the RFID tag data, such as described below.
[0067] Also in an example embodiment, database unit 410 either wirelessly and/or non-wirelessly transmits write information in respective information signals SW
and/or (electromagnetic) signal SW" to RFID tag reader 400. The write information in signals SW
or SW" is then written by RFID tag reader 400 to one or more RFID tags To and stored therein as RFID tag data.
and/or (electromagnetic) signal SW" to RFID tag reader 400. The write information in signals SW
or SW" is then written by RFID tag reader 400 to one or more RFID tags To and stored therein as RFID tag data.
[0068] Microprocessor 500 in database unit 410 is adapted to process the RFID
tag data to create useful information about the status of OFN 10 and OFN components C.. In an example embodiment, this information is displayed on display 520. In an example embodiment, the information is represented as graphics, and further is presented by database unit 410 in the form of one or more interactive OFN-RFID maps. The OFN-RFID
maps may include, for example, component inventory data, component location data, component connectivity data and/or component status data. Example interactive OFN-RFID
maps for facilitating the deployment and maintenance of OFN 10 are discussed in greater detail below.
CO RFID tags [0069] FIG. 1 shows a number of RFID tags To attached to different OFN
components Co of OFN 10. With reference also to FIG. 2, CO 20 includes a OLT-RFID tag T26 affixed to OLT 26. OLT RFID tag T26 includes, for example, information relating to the manufacturer, manufacturer model number, date of installation, the last maintenance performed, what was performed during the last maintenance, what the next maintenance is and when it is scheduled, the number of PONs served by the OLT, the number of connections to external networks EN, the types of external networks served, the exact location of the OLT in the CO, communication protocols used, etc.
tag data to create useful information about the status of OFN 10 and OFN components C.. In an example embodiment, this information is displayed on display 520. In an example embodiment, the information is represented as graphics, and further is presented by database unit 410 in the form of one or more interactive OFN-RFID maps. The OFN-RFID
maps may include, for example, component inventory data, component location data, component connectivity data and/or component status data. Example interactive OFN-RFID
maps for facilitating the deployment and maintenance of OFN 10 are discussed in greater detail below.
CO RFID tags [0069] FIG. 1 shows a number of RFID tags To attached to different OFN
components Co of OFN 10. With reference also to FIG. 2, CO 20 includes a OLT-RFID tag T26 affixed to OLT 26. OLT RFID tag T26 includes, for example, information relating to the manufacturer, manufacturer model number, date of installation, the last maintenance performed, what was performed during the last maintenance, what the next maintenance is and when it is scheduled, the number of PONs served by the OLT, the number of connections to external networks EN, the types of external networks served, the exact location of the OLT in the CO, communication protocols used, etc.
[0070] CO 20 also includes a patch-cord RFID tag T36 attached to patch cord 36 and a intrafacility-cable RFID tag T46. These RFID tags include, for example, information relating to the manufacturer, manufacturer part number, date of installation, the number of connections, type of fiber, etc.
[0071] CO 20 also includes an FDF RFID tag T30 attached to FDF 30 and a cabinet RFID
tag T40 attached to entrance cabinet 40. These RFID tags include, for example, information relating to the manufacturer, manufacturer part number, date of installation, the number of connections, location of the frame or cabinet, etc.
Feeder cable RFID tags [0072] With reference again also to FIG. 1, OFN-RFID system 6 includes a number of feeder-cable RFID tags T50 attached to feeder cables 50. In an example embodiment, feeder-cable RFID tags T50 are arranged along the length of each feeder cable 50 (e.g., at fixed intervals) and include information such as their respective GPS position information, the status of the feeder cable, the number of optical fibers 52 in the feeder cable, the last maintenance operation, feeder cable manufacturer, feeder cable manufacturer model number, the location and type of LCP to which the feeder cable is connected, the length of cable, the distance between cable RFID tags, etc. In another example embodiment, feeder-cable RFID
tags T50 are located at certain important locations, such as splice locations.
tag T40 attached to entrance cabinet 40. These RFID tags include, for example, information relating to the manufacturer, manufacturer part number, date of installation, the number of connections, location of the frame or cabinet, etc.
Feeder cable RFID tags [0072] With reference again also to FIG. 1, OFN-RFID system 6 includes a number of feeder-cable RFID tags T50 attached to feeder cables 50. In an example embodiment, feeder-cable RFID tags T50 are arranged along the length of each feeder cable 50 (e.g., at fixed intervals) and include information such as their respective GPS position information, the status of the feeder cable, the number of optical fibers 52 in the feeder cable, the last maintenance operation, feeder cable manufacturer, feeder cable manufacturer model number, the location and type of LCP to which the feeder cable is connected, the length of cable, the distance between cable RFID tags, etc. In another example embodiment, feeder-cable RFID
tags T50 are located at certain important locations, such as splice locations.
[0073] Feeder cable RFID tags T50 may also include information relating to the installation of feeder cables 50, such as the planned installation destination, installation date, special instructions regarding the installation (e.g., aerial or buried cable), and the like.
LCP RFID tags [0074] OFN-RFID system 6 also includes a number of LCP RFID tags. In an example embodiment, a main LCP RFID tag Tloo is attached to the OSP distribution cabinet 120 and contains information relating to the general properties of LCP 100, such as the cabinet location, operational status of the LCP, manufacturer information, maintenance status, the number and type of internal OFN components, etc. A splitter-module LCP RFID
tag T130 is attached to splitter module 130.
LCP RFID tags [0074] OFN-RFID system 6 also includes a number of LCP RFID tags. In an example embodiment, a main LCP RFID tag Tloo is attached to the OSP distribution cabinet 120 and contains information relating to the general properties of LCP 100, such as the cabinet location, operational status of the LCP, manufacturer information, maintenance status, the number and type of internal OFN components, etc. A splitter-module LCP RFID
tag T130 is attached to splitter module 130.
[0075] FIG. 6 is a detailed face-on diagram of an example splitter module rack 554 that houses three splitter modules 130. Each splitter module 130 has a number of splitter ports P.
Twelve such splitter ports P1 through P12 are shown for the sake of illustrations. Other numbers of splitter ports, such as 32 and 64 are also often used. A splitter-module RFID tag T130 is attached to each splitter module 130. In an exarnple embodiment, each splitter module 130 also includes a conventional ID tag 556 with a tag ID number that identifies the splitter module, e.g., by its shelf location in splitter module rack 554. This conventional ID
tag can be placed directly on the RFID tag T130, as shown.
Twelve such splitter ports P1 through P12 are shown for the sake of illustrations. Other numbers of splitter ports, such as 32 and 64 are also often used. A splitter-module RFID tag T130 is attached to each splitter module 130. In an exarnple embodiment, each splitter module 130 also includes a conventional ID tag 556 with a tag ID number that identifies the splitter module, e.g., by its shelf location in splitter module rack 554. This conventional ID
tag can be placed directly on the RFID tag T130, as shown.
[0076] In an example embodiment, RFID tag T130 includes a light 560 (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED)) that activates when the particular RFID tag T130 is interrogated by RFID tag reader 400. This helps identify which one of the RFID tags T130 is being interrogated and read at a given time.
[0077] Table 1 below presents an example embodiment of RFID tag data stored in the splitter-module RFID tag T130 for splitter module ID# 124290. For the sake of illustration, only the data for the first six ports P1- through P6 is shown.
Shelf ID # 124290 Port Pl P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 1310 nm Loss (dB) 17 17 17 17 17 17 1550 nm Loss (dB) 17 17 17 17 17 17 Terminal ID 12345 12345 12346 12347 12348 12349 Street Name Elm Street Elm Street Elm Street Elm Street Elm Street Elm Street Street Address 123 124 125 126 127 128 Pole Number 1 1 2 2 3 3 GPS (Lat, Long) N30 13.477 N30 13.455 N30 13.445 N30 13.402 N30 13.380 N30 13.380 W97 44.315 W97 44.315 W97 44.300 W97 44.269 W97 44.198 W97 44.169 Other Information None None Faulty port None Repaired None [0078] Table 1 includes the shelf ID number - here, ID number 124290 chosen for illustration purposes - that identifies the splitter-module RFID tag as being located in a particular shelf of splitter module rack 554. Table 1 includes the following information for each port: The 1310 nm loss (dB), the 1550 nm loss (dB), the street name served by the port, the street address served by the port, the pole number associated with the port, the GPS
coordinates of the location served by the port, and "other information" that can be added to the RFID tag as needed, such as the operating status or the maintenance status. Generally speaking, data can also be written to the RFID tag via RFID reader 400 so that the data can be updated as needed. In an example embodiment, RFID tags T130 contain default deployment data written to the RFID tag prior to the deployment of LCP 100 or the installation of splitter module 130 in the LCP.
Shelf ID # 124290 Port Pl P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 1310 nm Loss (dB) 17 17 17 17 17 17 1550 nm Loss (dB) 17 17 17 17 17 17 Terminal ID 12345 12345 12346 12347 12348 12349 Street Name Elm Street Elm Street Elm Street Elm Street Elm Street Elm Street Street Address 123 124 125 126 127 128 Pole Number 1 1 2 2 3 3 GPS (Lat, Long) N30 13.477 N30 13.455 N30 13.445 N30 13.402 N30 13.380 N30 13.380 W97 44.315 W97 44.315 W97 44.300 W97 44.269 W97 44.198 W97 44.169 Other Information None None Faulty port None Repaired None [0078] Table 1 includes the shelf ID number - here, ID number 124290 chosen for illustration purposes - that identifies the splitter-module RFID tag as being located in a particular shelf of splitter module rack 554. Table 1 includes the following information for each port: The 1310 nm loss (dB), the 1550 nm loss (dB), the street name served by the port, the street address served by the port, the pole number associated with the port, the GPS
coordinates of the location served by the port, and "other information" that can be added to the RFID tag as needed, such as the operating status or the maintenance status. Generally speaking, data can also be written to the RFID tag via RFID reader 400 so that the data can be updated as needed. In an example embodiment, RFID tags T130 contain default deployment data written to the RFID tag prior to the deployment of LCP 100 or the installation of splitter module 130 in the LCP.
[0079] In another example embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, each splitter module 130 includes a port RFID tag TP for each splitter port P. Port RFID tags TP
contain, for example, information about the status of the corresponding port P and its connectivity.
contain, for example, information about the status of the corresponding port P and its connectivity.
[0080] FIG. 8 is a detailed face-on diagram of an example patch-panel rack that includes a number of patch panels 140. Each patch panel 140 includes a patch-panel RFID
tag T140 attached thereto. As with splitter-module RFID tag T130, patch-panel RFID tag T140 includes in an example embodiment a light 556 activated by microcircuit 450 when the patch-panel RFID tag is interrogated by RFID tag reader 400. Patch-panel RFID tag T140 also includes a conventional ID number that indicates the patch panel's shelf location in patch-panel rack 600.
tag T140 attached thereto. As with splitter-module RFID tag T130, patch-panel RFID tag T140 includes in an example embodiment a light 556 activated by microcircuit 450 when the patch-panel RFID tag is interrogated by RFID tag reader 400. Patch-panel RFID tag T140 also includes a conventional ID number that indicates the patch panel's shelf location in patch-panel rack 600.
[0081] FIG. 9 is a close-up front-on view of patch panel 140, showing patch-panel RFID
tag T140 and patch-panel ports P1 through P6. Table 2 below presents an example embodiment of data stored in patch-panel RFID tag T140 for patch-panel ID #
13425 of FIG. 8.
TABLE 2. PATCH-PANEL RFID TAG DATA
PANEL ID # 13425 READ/WRITE
PORT LOSS (dB) OSP LOCATION
P1 0.3 Node 123 Forward P2 0.3 Node 123 Return P3 0.3 Spare P4 0.3 Spare P5 0.3 WALLMART
P6 0.3 XYZ, Inc.
tag T140 and patch-panel ports P1 through P6. Table 2 below presents an example embodiment of data stored in patch-panel RFID tag T140 for patch-panel ID #
13425 of FIG. 8.
TABLE 2. PATCH-PANEL RFID TAG DATA
PANEL ID # 13425 READ/WRITE
PORT LOSS (dB) OSP LOCATION
P1 0.3 Node 123 Forward P2 0.3 Node 123 Return P3 0.3 Spare P4 0.3 Spare P5 0.3 WALLMART
P6 0.3 XYZ, Inc.
[0082] Table 2 includes the patch-panel ID number - here, ID number 13425, chosen for illustration purposes. Table 2 also includes the patch-panel port number P1 through P6, the loss per port (in dB), and the OSP location information. Other information, such as building name, room number, subscriber location, street address, power levels, maintenance schedules, and the like can be included in Table 2. Alternately, it is possible to have a separate RFID
tag, with one for each port number P1 through P6, that contains all of the data pertinent to its associated port.
tag, with one for each port number P1 through P6, that contains all of the data pertinent to its associated port.
[0083) Here, it is emphasizing that the prior art approach to OFN deployment and maintenance involves obtaining such information by inspection and previous written documentation, and then documenting the updated information on paper. The paper documents are then distributed to provide information about the maintenance history of OFN
components C. such as splitter module 130 and patch panel 140. With RFID tags, this paper documentation is replaced by the data written into the RFID tags, and is available instantly at the point of use and at any time it is needed.
Distribution-cable RFID tags [0084] With reference again to FIG. 1, OFN-RFID system 6 includes a number of distribution-cable RFID tags Tllo attached to distribution cables 110. In an example embodiment, distribution-cable RFID tags Tllo are arranged along the length of each distribution cable 110 (e.g., at fixed intervals). Distribution-cable RFID
tags Tllo include information such as their respective GPS positions, the status of the distribution cable, the number of optical fibers 112 in the distribution cable, the distance between RFID tags, the last maintenance operation, the distribution-cable manufacturer, distribution-cable manufacturer model number, the location and type of LCP 100 and NAP 200 to which the distribution cable is connected, etc. In another example embodiment, distribution-cable RFID tags Tllo are located at certain important locations, such as splice locations.
components C. such as splitter module 130 and patch panel 140. With RFID tags, this paper documentation is replaced by the data written into the RFID tags, and is available instantly at the point of use and at any time it is needed.
Distribution-cable RFID tags [0084] With reference again to FIG. 1, OFN-RFID system 6 includes a number of distribution-cable RFID tags Tllo attached to distribution cables 110. In an example embodiment, distribution-cable RFID tags Tllo are arranged along the length of each distribution cable 110 (e.g., at fixed intervals). Distribution-cable RFID
tags Tllo include information such as their respective GPS positions, the status of the distribution cable, the number of optical fibers 112 in the distribution cable, the distance between RFID tags, the last maintenance operation, the distribution-cable manufacturer, distribution-cable manufacturer model number, the location and type of LCP 100 and NAP 200 to which the distribution cable is connected, etc. In another example embodiment, distribution-cable RFID tags Tllo are located at certain important locations, such as splice locations.
[0085] Distribution-cable RFID tags Tl1o may also include information relating to the installation of distribution cables 110, such as the planned installation destination, installation date, special instructions regarding the installation (e.g., aerial or buried cable), and the like.
NAP RFID taes [0086] OFN-RFID system 6 also includes a number of NAP RFID tags. A main NAP
RFID tag T200 is attached to the distribution cabinet 120 and contains information relating to the general properties of NAP 200, such as the cabinet location, operational status of the NAP, manufacturer information, maintenance status, the number and type of internal OFN
components, etc.
NAP RFID taes [0086] OFN-RFID system 6 also includes a number of NAP RFID tags. A main NAP
RFID tag T200 is attached to the distribution cabinet 120 and contains information relating to the general properties of NAP 200, such as the cabinet location, operational status of the NAP, manufacturer information, maintenance status, the number and type of internal OFN
components, etc.
[0087] The other NAP RFID tags for NAP 200 are essentially the same as those for LCP
100 since the NAP typically includes the same OFN components-namely, splitter module(s) 130 and patch panel(s) 140.
Drop-cable RFID tags [0088] With reference to FIG. 1, OFN-RFID system 6 includes a number of drop-cable RFID tags T220 attached to drop cables 220. In an example embodiment, drop-cable RFID
tags T220 are arranged along the length of each drop cable 220 (e.g., at fixed intervals). Drop-cable RFID tags T220 include information such as their respective GPS
positions, the distance between successive RFID tags, the status of the drop cable, the number of optical fibers 112 in the drop cable, the last maintenance operation, the drop-cable manufacturer, drop-cable manufacturer model number, the location and type of NAP 200 and NID 300 to which the drop cable is connected, etc. In another example embodiment, drop-cable RFID
tags T220 are located at certain important locations, such as splice locations.
100 since the NAP typically includes the same OFN components-namely, splitter module(s) 130 and patch panel(s) 140.
Drop-cable RFID tags [0088] With reference to FIG. 1, OFN-RFID system 6 includes a number of drop-cable RFID tags T220 attached to drop cables 220. In an example embodiment, drop-cable RFID
tags T220 are arranged along the length of each drop cable 220 (e.g., at fixed intervals). Drop-cable RFID tags T220 include information such as their respective GPS
positions, the distance between successive RFID tags, the status of the drop cable, the number of optical fibers 112 in the drop cable, the last maintenance operation, the drop-cable manufacturer, drop-cable manufacturer model number, the location and type of NAP 200 and NID 300 to which the drop cable is connected, etc. In another example embodiment, drop-cable RFID
tags T220 are located at certain important locations, such as splice locations.
[0089] Drop-cable RFID tags T220 may also include information relating to the installation of drop cables 220, such as the planned installation destination, installation date, special instructions regarding the installation (e.g., aerial or buried cable), and the like.
1yID RFID tags [0090] OFN-RFID system 6 also includes a number of NID RFID tags. A main NID
RFID
tag T300 is attached to cabinet 120 and contains information relating to the general properties of NID 300, such as the cabinet location, operational status of the NID, manufacturer information, maintenance status, the number and type of internal OFN
components, etc.
1yID RFID tags [0090] OFN-RFID system 6 also includes a number of NID RFID tags. A main NID
RFID
tag T300 is attached to cabinet 120 and contains information relating to the general properties of NID 300, such as the cabinet location, operational status of the NID, manufacturer information, maintenance status, the number and type of internal OFN
components, etc.
[0091] Other NTD RFID tags are provided to the corresponding NID OFN
components in analogous fashion to the LCP RFID tags described above. In an example embodiment, the other NID RFID tags are essentially the same as those for LCP 100 in the case where the two have the same or similar OFN components.
RFID Mapping of the OFN
components in analogous fashion to the LCP RFID tags described above. In an example embodiment, the other NID RFID tags are essentially the same as those for LCP 100 in the case where the two have the same or similar OFN components.
RFID Mapping of the OFN
[0092] As discussed above, an example embodiment of the present invention involves using OFN RFID tags T. to create one or more OFN-RFID maps of OFN 10 based on the RFID tag data read from the OFN RFID tags. In one example embodiment, OFN RFID
tags T. are provided with data relating to the deployment of the corresponding OFN
components C. prior to OFN 10 being deployed. In one example, the OFN RFID tag data is written to the corresponding RFID tags by the OFN component manufacturer and/or by the OFN
installer (service provider). For example, for cable assemblies that are factory terminated and customized for installation in a particular location, the location information can also be written in the RFID tags. RFID tags on the cable reel or cable assembly reel can also contain information about their installation destination, as required.
tags T. are provided with data relating to the deployment of the corresponding OFN
components C. prior to OFN 10 being deployed. In one example, the OFN RFID tag data is written to the corresponding RFID tags by the OFN component manufacturer and/or by the OFN
installer (service provider). For example, for cable assemblies that are factory terminated and customized for installation in a particular location, the location information can also be written in the RFID tags. RFID tags on the cable reel or cable assembly reel can also contain information about their installation destination, as required.
[0093] The OFN RFID tag data is then read, from the OFN RFID tags using RFID
tag reader 400 prior to or during deployment. In an example embodiment, the service provider receives materials from the OFN component supplier and scans all tagged OFN
components.
This information is then added to the inventory database unit of database unit 410. At this point, the service provider may choose to replace the manufacturer identification and the identification number written to the RFID tag by the manufacturer with its own identification number, which uniquely identifies this tag within its entire inventory of assets. The original identification number and the manufacturer code can be stored in the inventory database unit so that each entity can still be traced back if necessary. This enables the full capability and capacity of the manufacturing database collection to be searched to determine the characteristics and performance of the component in more detail than can be written into the RFID tag. Such manufacturing data can be retrieved remotely, for example, via the Internet or via a cellular phone network. This information can be further updated at the time of installation, toadd additional details of interest to the network operator, such as the association between ports and connectors.
tag reader 400 prior to or during deployment. In an example embodiment, the service provider receives materials from the OFN component supplier and scans all tagged OFN
components.
This information is then added to the inventory database unit of database unit 410. At this point, the service provider may choose to replace the manufacturer identification and the identification number written to the RFID tag by the manufacturer with its own identification number, which uniquely identifies this tag within its entire inventory of assets. The original identification number and the manufacturer code can be stored in the inventory database unit so that each entity can still be traced back if necessary. This enables the full capability and capacity of the manufacturing database collection to be searched to determine the characteristics and performance of the component in more detail than can be written into the RFID tag. Such manufacturing data can be retrieved remotely, for example, via the Internet or via a cellular phone network. This information can be further updated at the time of installation, toadd additional details of interest to the network operator, such as the association between ports and connectors.
[0094] The OFN RFID tag data, which is collected in memory unit 510 of database unit 410, is processed via microprocessor 500 to provide a representation of the OFN RFID tag information from the various OFN RFID tags, such as an OFN map.
[0095] In an example embodiment, the information stored in the OFN RFID tags To includes positional information (e.g., GPS coordinates) for the OFN components C. The positional information is, for example, originally provided by GPS circuit 486 and written to the OFN RFID tags To by RFID tag reader 400 during installation of the OFN
component.
Writing of GPS information can be carried out, for example, by OFN service personnel working in the field while installing, maintaining or repairing the OFN. For example, the GPS information can also be added to the RFID tag data by RFID tag reader 400 during the RFID tag reading process after OFN deployment (e.g., by OFN service personnel) and sent to the database unit along with the read RFID tag data. This allows the map to show in detail the precise locations of the OFN components, as well as the spatial relationships between OFN components in the OFN.
component.
Writing of GPS information can be carried out, for example, by OFN service personnel working in the field while installing, maintaining or repairing the OFN. For example, the GPS information can also be added to the RFID tag data by RFID tag reader 400 during the RFID tag reading process after OFN deployment (e.g., by OFN service personnel) and sent to the database unit along with the read RFID tag data. This allows the map to show in detail the precise locations of the OFN components, as well as the spatial relationships between OFN components in the OFN.
[0096] In a similar manner, an OFN inventory map is created that shows the location (e.g., via GPS coordinates) and the corresponding part number for each OFN component Co in OFN 10. In an example embodiment, the OFN inventory map includes information about not only installed OFN components, but spare OFN components as well, such as availability, location, etc.
[0097] In another example embodiment, an OFN maintenance map of OFN 10 is created by writing to one or more of the OFN RFID tags Tn maintenance information for the corresponding OFN components C.. The maintenance map includes, for example, maintenance that needs to be performed and/or maintenance that has already been performed.
By updating OFN RFID tags T. using one or more RFID tag readers 400 and transmitting the updated OFN RFID tag information from the one or more RFID tag readers to database unit 410, an updated maintenance map is established. Such an updated maintenance map can be viewed on display 520 of database unit 410 and used to plan and schedule OFN
maintenance.
By updating OFN RFID tags T. using one or more RFID tag readers 400 and transmitting the updated OFN RFID tag information from the one or more RFID tag readers to database unit 410, an updated maintenance map is established. Such an updated maintenance map can be viewed on display 520 of database unit 410 and used to plan and schedule OFN
maintenance.
[0098] In an example embodiment, both inventory and maintenance maps are used in combination when performing OFN maintenance, since inventory issues often arise in connection with performing OFN maintenance. FIG. 10 shows an example of an interactive OFN-RFID map 700 as shown on display 520 of database unit 410. OFN-RFID
interactive map 700 shows a portion of OFN 10. The GUI functionality of database unit 410 allows a cursor 710 to be moved by a user to the various OFN components, which serve as active icons that can be "clicked on" to reveal the RFID tag information corresponding to the particular OFN component.
interactive map 700 shows a portion of OFN 10. The GUI functionality of database unit 410 allows a cursor 710 to be moved by a user to the various OFN components, which serve as active icons that can be "clicked on" to reveal the RFID tag information corresponding to the particular OFN component.
[0099] FIG. 11 illustrates an example embodiment of the present invention wherein an OFN-RFID interactive map 700 is overlaid or shown along with a standard geographical map 800 (e.g., a GPS-based map). The spatial layout of at least a portion of OFN 6 and the location of the various OFN-RFIG tags To is viewable in the context of the local geography, which includes roads, building, geographic features, etc. This allows for the OFN
components to be positioned on the map so that the field service personnel can easily locate the components. It is worth emphasizing here that locating OFN components in the field is a time-consuming job. Even after a particular component is found, one may not be sure it is the correct one. The RFID tag for the particular OFN component provides the field operator with positive confirmation that they have indeed found the correct component.
components to be positioned on the map so that the field service personnel can easily locate the components. It is worth emphasizing here that locating OFN components in the field is a time-consuming job. Even after a particular component is found, one may not be sure it is the correct one. The RFID tag for the particular OFN component provides the field operator with positive confirmation that they have indeed found the correct component.
[00100] FIG. 12 is an example schematic diagram of a table 720 (similar to Tables 1 and 2, set forth above) as displayed on display 520 when cursor 710 is used to click on a RFID tag Tloo icon in OFN-RFID map 700 of FIG. 10. Table 720 includes the RFID tag data of clicked-on RFID tag TIlo. The example RFID tag data includes the RFID tag ID
serial number, the GPS location, the distance to the nearest LCP 100, the distance to the nearest NAP 200, the type of cable, the cable part number, the date of installation, and who installed the cable. Table 720 also includes one or more active icons, such as a maintenance log icon 730 that, when clicked on, displays additional RFID tag data regarding the maintenance performed.
serial number, the GPS location, the distance to the nearest LCP 100, the distance to the nearest NAP 200, the type of cable, the cable part number, the date of installation, and who installed the cable. Table 720 also includes one or more active icons, such as a maintenance log icon 730 that, when clicked on, displays additional RFID tag data regarding the maintenance performed.
[00101] FIG. 13 is an schematic diagram of an example maintenance log 740 that is displayed on display 520 when maintenance log icon 720 of FIG. 12 is clicked.
Maintenance log 740 shows example maintenance RFID tag data, such as the RFID tag ID
serial number, the GPS location of the RFID tag, the date a maintenance problem was reported, the nature of the problem identified, what repair was performed and when, when the system was placed back in operation, who effected the repair, and what parts were used to make the repair.
Maintenance log 740 shows example maintenance RFID tag data, such as the RFID tag ID
serial number, the GPS location of the RFID tag, the date a maintenance problem was reported, the nature of the problem identified, what repair was performed and when, when the system was placed back in operation, who effected the repair, and what parts were used to make the repair.
[00102] FIG. 14 shows the interactive OFN-RFID map 700 of FIG. 10, but with cursor 710 moved to the LCP 100 active icon. FIG. 15 illustrates a second interactive map 750 (adapted from FIG. 3) of LCP 100 that is displayed on display 520 when the LCP
100 icon of FIG. 14 is clicked on. Interactive map 750 shows the different OFN components of LCP 100 as described above in connection with FIG. 3.
100 icon of FIG. 14 is clicked on. Interactive map 750 shows the different OFN components of LCP 100 as described above in connection with FIG. 3.
[00103] Each of the RFID tags T. in interactive map 750 are active icons that can be clicked on to display the corresponding RFID tag data. For example, clicking on RFID
tag T130 displays Table 1 as shown and discussed above in connection with splitter module 130.
Likewise, clicking on RFID tag T140 displays Table 2 as shown and discussed above in connection with patch panel 140. Interactive map 750 also includes a general LCP RFID tag T120 icon that can be clicked on to display general RFID tag data generally concerning the corresponding LCP 100.
tag T130 displays Table 1 as shown and discussed above in connection with splitter module 130.
Likewise, clicking on RFID tag T140 displays Table 2 as shown and discussed above in connection with patch panel 140. Interactive map 750 also includes a general LCP RFID tag T120 icon that can be clicked on to display general RFID tag data generally concerning the corresponding LCP 100.
[00104] As discussed above, in an example embodiment, database unit 410 is portable, allowing it to be taken into the field by those deploying or maintaining OFN
10. This provides for real-time processing of OFN deployment and maintenance RFID tag data during the deployment or maintenance activity.
10. This provides for real-time processing of OFN deployment and maintenance RFID tag data during the deployment or maintenance activity.
[00105] The automated tracking of OFN components afforded by the present invention reduces the risk of misidentification and errors that often accompany manual updates of an OFN component inventory database. The present invention also provides for faster and more accurate installation, provisioning operations, fault location and maintenance of the OFN.
[00106] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims (20)
1. A radio-frequency identification (RFID) method of deploying and/or maintaining an optical fiber network (OFN), comprising:
providing at least one RFID tag on at least one OFN component of a plurality of OFN
components that constitute the OFN;
writing, to at least one RFID tag, data relating to at least one property of the corresponding OFN component; and recording and storing the OFN component data in an OFN-component-data database unit.
providing at least one RFID tag on at least one OFN component of a plurality of OFN
components that constitute the OFN;
writing, to at least one RFID tag, data relating to at least one property of the corresponding OFN component; and recording and storing the OFN component data in an OFN-component-data database unit.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
installing the OFN components in the OFN; and performing said providing of at least one RFID tag prior to said installing.
installing the OFN components in the OFN; and performing said providing of at least one RFID tag prior to said installing.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising reading at least one or more of the RFID
tags either during or after deploying the OFN.
tags either during or after deploying the OFN.
4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
including in said OFN component data a location of the corresponding OFN
component either as deployed or as to be deployed in the OFN; and using said location data to create a spatial map of the OFN.
including in said OFN component data a location of the corresponding OFN
component either as deployed or as to be deployed in the OFN; and using said location data to create a spatial map of the OFN.
5. The method of claim 4, including showing the spatial map of the OFN with a geographical map having geographical features, so as to locate the OFN
components relative to geographical features.
components relative to geographical features.
6. The method of claim 4, further comprising:
locating at least one select OFN component based on said spatial OFN map; and reading the corresponding at least one RFID tag associated with the one or more select OFN component.
locating at least one select OFN component based on said spatial OFN map; and reading the corresponding at least one RFID tag associated with the one or more select OFN component.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:
including inventory data in the OFN component data; and using said inventory data to create an inventory map of the OFN.
including inventory data in the OFN component data; and using said inventory data to create an inventory map of the OFN.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the OFN includes an optical fiber cable having a length, and including:
positioning RFID tags along the length of the optical fiber cable; and including as OFN component data the relative locations of the RFID tags along the optical fiber cable.
positioning RFID tags along the length of the optical fiber cable; and including as OFN component data the relative locations of the RFID tags along the optical fiber cable.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of OFN components includes at least one patch panel, and further comprising:
including in at least one patch-panel RFID tag corresponding to the at least one patch panel, at least one OFN component data element from the group of OFN component data elements comprising: port identification, loss per port, and connectivity for each port.
including in at least one patch-panel RFID tag corresponding to the at least one patch panel, at least one OFN component data element from the group of OFN component data elements comprising: port identification, loss per port, and connectivity for each port.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of OFN components includes at least one splitter module, and further comprising:
including in at least one splitter-module RFID tag corresponding to the at least one splitter module, at least one OFN component data element from the group of OFN
component data elements comprising: shelf ID, port identification, loss data at a given wavelength, terminal ID, street name, street address, pole number, and GPS coordinates.
including in at least one splitter-module RFID tag corresponding to the at least one splitter module, at least one OFN component data element from the group of OFN
component data elements comprising: shelf ID, port identification, loss data at a given wavelength, terminal ID, street name, street address, pole number, and GPS coordinates.
11. A radio-frequency identification (RFID) system for deploying and/or maintaining an optical fiber network (OFN), comprising:
at least one RFID tag affixed to at least one OFN component of a plurality of OFN
components that constitute the OFN, wherein the at least one RFID tag affixed to the at least one OFN component contains OFN component data that relates to at least one property of the OFN component;
at least one RFID tag reader adapted to read the OFN component data from the at least one RFID tag; and an OFN component data database unit adapted to receive and store OFN component data read by the at least one RFID tag reader.
at least one RFID tag affixed to at least one OFN component of a plurality of OFN
components that constitute the OFN, wherein the at least one RFID tag affixed to the at least one OFN component contains OFN component data that relates to at least one property of the OFN component;
at least one RFID tag reader adapted to read the OFN component data from the at least one RFID tag; and an OFN component data database unit adapted to receive and store OFN component data read by the at least one RFID tag reader.
12. The RFID system of claim 11, wherein the OFN components include one or more OFN components selected from the group of OFN components comprising: a feeder cable, a distribution cable, a drop cable, a splitter, a splitter module, a network access point (NAP), an enclosure, a cabinet, a terminal, a patch panel, a patch cord, a splice box, a fiber connector, a coupler, an optical amplifier, a wavelength multiplexer, a wavelength demultiplexer, an optical line terminal (OLT), a filter, a light source, an optical receiver, an optical transmitter, an intrafacility cable, a local convergence point (LCP), a network interface device (NID), a fiber distribution frame (FDF), and a fiber equipment module.
13. The RFID system of claim 12, wherein one of the OFN components is a splitter module, and wherein the OFN component data for the splitter module includes at least one data element selected from the group of data elements comprising: a shelf location, a port identification, a loss at a given wavelength, a terminal identification, a street name, a street address, and GPS coordinates.
14. The system of claim 12, wherein one of the OFN components is a patch panel having a number of optical fiber connection ports, and wherein the OFN component data for the patch panel include one or more data elements selected from the group of data elements comprising: GPS coordinates, a shelf location, a port identification, a loss for each port, a destination for each port, and a status of each port.
15. The RFID system of claim 11, wherein:
The database unit includes a microprocessor having graphical user interface (GUI) capability and adapted to process the OFN component data stored in the database unit; and a display operably coupled to the processor unit and adapted to interactively display the OFN component data as processed by the microprocessor.
The database unit includes a microprocessor having graphical user interface (GUI) capability and adapted to process the OFN component data stored in the database unit; and a display operably coupled to the processor unit and adapted to interactively display the OFN component data as processed by the microprocessor.
16. The RFID system of claim 11, wherein at least one of the RFID tag readers is adapted to read RFID tag signals from RFID tags located underground.
17. A radio-frequency identification (RFID) system for deploying and/or maintaining an optical fiber network (OFN) that is optically coupled to a central office (CO), comprising:
at least one feeder-cable RFID tag fixed to a feeder cable that is optically coupled to the CO, with the at least one feeder-cable RFID tag having feeder-cable data relating to one or more properties of the feeder cable;
at least one local convergence point (LCP) RFID tag fixed to a local convergence point (LCP) that is operably connected to the feeder cable, with the at least one LCP RFID tag having LCP data relating to one or more properties of the LCP;
at least one distribution-cable RFID tag fixed to a distribution cable that is operably coupled to the LCP, with the at least one distribution-cable RFID tag having distribution-cable data relating to one or more properties of the distribution cable;
at least one network access point (NAP) RFID tag fixed to a NAP that is operably coupled to the LCP via the distribution cable, with the at least one NAP RFID
tag having NAP data relating to one or more properties of the NAP;
at least one network interface device (NID) RFID tag fixed to a NID that is operably coupled to the LCP via a drop cable, with the at least one NAP RFID tag having NID data relating to one or more properties of the NID;
one or more RFID tag readers adapted to read at least one of the feeder-cable RFID
tags, the LCP RFID tags, the distribution-cable RFID tags, the NAP RFID tags, and the NID
RFID tags, and provide corresponding feeder-cable data, LCP data, distribution-cable data, NAP data, and NID data; and an OFN component database unit adapted to receive and store the feeder-cable data, the LCP data, the distribution-cable data, the NAP data and the NID data.
at least one feeder-cable RFID tag fixed to a feeder cable that is optically coupled to the CO, with the at least one feeder-cable RFID tag having feeder-cable data relating to one or more properties of the feeder cable;
at least one local convergence point (LCP) RFID tag fixed to a local convergence point (LCP) that is operably connected to the feeder cable, with the at least one LCP RFID tag having LCP data relating to one or more properties of the LCP;
at least one distribution-cable RFID tag fixed to a distribution cable that is operably coupled to the LCP, with the at least one distribution-cable RFID tag having distribution-cable data relating to one or more properties of the distribution cable;
at least one network access point (NAP) RFID tag fixed to a NAP that is operably coupled to the LCP via the distribution cable, with the at least one NAP RFID
tag having NAP data relating to one or more properties of the NAP;
at least one network interface device (NID) RFID tag fixed to a NID that is operably coupled to the LCP via a drop cable, with the at least one NAP RFID tag having NID data relating to one or more properties of the NID;
one or more RFID tag readers adapted to read at least one of the feeder-cable RFID
tags, the LCP RFID tags, the distribution-cable RFID tags, the NAP RFID tags, and the NID
RFID tags, and provide corresponding feeder-cable data, LCP data, distribution-cable data, NAP data, and NID data; and an OFN component database unit adapted to receive and store the feeder-cable data, the LCP data, the distribution-cable data, the NAP data and the NID data.
18. The RFID system of claim 17, wherein the feeder cable has a feeder cable length, the distribution cable has a distribution cable length, and wherein the feeder-cable RFID tags and the distribution-cable RFID tags are respectively positioned along the feeder cable and the distribution cable along their respective lengths.
19. The RFID system of claim 17, further including:
one or more drop-cable RFID tags fixed to the drop cable, with each drop-cable RFID
tag having drop-cable data relating to one or more properties of the drop cable; and wherein the one or more RFID tag readers are further adapted to read the one or more drop-cable RFID tags and the OFN component database unit is further adapted to receive and store the drop-cable data.
one or more drop-cable RFID tags fixed to the drop cable, with each drop-cable RFID
tag having drop-cable data relating to one or more properties of the drop cable; and wherein the one or more RFID tag readers are further adapted to read the one or more drop-cable RFID tags and the OFN component database unit is further adapted to receive and store the drop-cable data.
20. The RFID system of claim 17, wherein:
The database unit includes a microprocessor having graphical user interface (GUI) capability and adapted to process the OFN component data stored in the database unit; and a display operably coupled to the processor unit and adapted to interactively display the OFN component data as processed by the microprocessor.
The database unit includes a microprocessor having graphical user interface (GUI) capability and adapted to process the OFN component data stored in the database unit; and a display operably coupled to the processor unit and adapted to interactively display the OFN component data as processed by the microprocessor.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/638,812 | 2006-12-14 | ||
US11/638,812 US7760094B1 (en) | 2006-12-14 | 2006-12-14 | RFID systems and methods for optical fiber network deployment and maintenance |
PCT/US2007/025136 WO2008076235A1 (en) | 2006-12-14 | 2007-12-07 | Rfid systems and methods for optical fiber network deployment and maintenance |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA2672576A1 true CA2672576A1 (en) | 2008-06-26 |
Family
ID=39386175
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA002672576A Abandoned CA2672576A1 (en) | 2006-12-14 | 2007-12-07 | Rfid systems and methods for optical fiber network deployment and maintenance |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US7760094B1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2098095B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2010525615A (en) |
CN (1) | CN101632314B (en) |
CA (1) | CA2672576A1 (en) |
MX (1) | MX2009006455A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2008076235A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (58)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7489849B2 (en) | 2004-11-03 | 2009-02-10 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Fiber drop terminal |
US7234944B2 (en) * | 2005-08-26 | 2007-06-26 | Panduit Corp. | Patch field documentation and revision systems |
US8264355B2 (en) | 2006-12-14 | 2012-09-11 | Corning Cable Systems Llc | RFID systems and methods for optical fiber network deployment and maintenance |
US7760094B1 (en) | 2006-12-14 | 2010-07-20 | Corning Cable Systems Llc | RFID systems and methods for optical fiber network deployment and maintenance |
US8210755B2 (en) * | 2006-12-29 | 2012-07-03 | Alcatel Lucent | Identifiable fiber optics |
EP1968241A1 (en) * | 2007-03-06 | 2008-09-10 | Koninklijke KPN N.V. | Method for gaining access to a comunication network, and a communication system |
US8260132B2 (en) | 2007-03-26 | 2012-09-04 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | System and method for cable monitoring |
US8222996B2 (en) * | 2007-12-31 | 2012-07-17 | Intel Corporation | Radio frequency identification tags adapted for localization and state indication |
US8203450B2 (en) * | 2008-01-02 | 2012-06-19 | Commscope, Inc. | Intelligent MPO-to-MPO patch panels having connectivity tracking capabilities and related methods |
WO2009091888A1 (en) * | 2008-01-15 | 2009-07-23 | Corning Cable Systems Llc | Rfid systems and methods for automatically detecting and/or directing the physical configuration of a complex system |
US7969304B2 (en) * | 2008-04-29 | 2011-06-28 | Berland Kerry S | Secured bag locking and tracking device |
US7940182B2 (en) * | 2008-04-30 | 2011-05-10 | Alcatel Lucent | RFID encoding for identifying system interconnect cables |
US8554033B2 (en) * | 2008-05-02 | 2013-10-08 | Telescent Inc. | Radio frequency identification overlay network for fiber optic communication systems |
US8248208B2 (en) * | 2008-07-15 | 2012-08-21 | Corning Cable Systems, Llc. | RFID-based active labeling system for telecommunication systems |
CN101656578B (en) * | 2008-08-20 | 2013-12-18 | 华为技术有限公司 | Method, device and system for managing optical node information in optical distribution network |
US8731405B2 (en) | 2008-08-28 | 2014-05-20 | Corning Cable Systems Llc | RFID-based systems and methods for collecting telecommunications network information |
US8233804B2 (en) * | 2008-09-30 | 2012-07-31 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Fiber optic cable diagnostics using digital modulation |
CN102045125B (en) * | 2009-10-26 | 2013-12-04 | 华为技术有限公司 | Optical splitter as well as optical splitter port identification method and device |
US8693865B2 (en) | 2010-01-11 | 2014-04-08 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Network security using optical attenuation data |
US8903683B2 (en) | 2010-04-26 | 2014-12-02 | Mellanox Technologies Ltd. | Cable with field-writeable memory |
JP4913913B2 (en) * | 2010-04-28 | 2012-04-11 | 新日鉄ソリューションズ株式会社 | Information processing system, information processing method, and program |
CN102859807B (en) | 2010-04-29 | 2017-09-12 | 克里斯多佛·布赖恩德·谢勒 | Networking cable tracker system |
US9325416B2 (en) * | 2010-07-30 | 2016-04-26 | At&T Intellectual Property I, L.P. | Network interface device for optical premises signals and networks |
CN102307107A (en) * | 2011-08-16 | 2012-01-04 | 无锡互惠信息技术有限公司 | Intelligent management system of ODN (optical distribution network) based on RFID (radio frequency identification) |
CN102346860B (en) * | 2011-09-16 | 2013-10-02 | 烽火通信科技股份有限公司 | Method for wiring and managing optical fiber with electronic and manual dual-identification capabilities |
CN102340420B (en) * | 2011-09-16 | 2014-04-30 | 烽火通信科技股份有限公司 | Intelligentized reformation method for optical fiber distribution equipment |
US20130181816A1 (en) * | 2012-01-17 | 2013-07-18 | International Business Machines Corporation | Mechanism and method for rfid cable path labeling, identification, and inventory |
CN103217744B (en) * | 2012-01-19 | 2016-03-30 | 华为技术有限公司 | Optical device, for managing the system and method for optical device |
US9172465B2 (en) | 2012-01-19 | 2015-10-27 | Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. | Optical device, and system and method for managing optical device |
US9111249B2 (en) | 2012-02-14 | 2015-08-18 | Tyco Electronics Uk Ltd | Physical layer management (PLM) system for use with an optical distribution frame using RFID antennas with localized fields |
MX343800B (en) * | 2012-03-01 | 2016-11-23 | Tyco Electronics Corp | Keying for mpo systems. |
CN102684783B (en) * | 2012-05-09 | 2014-10-08 | 烽火通信科技股份有限公司 | Method for repairing intelligent wiring electronic tag |
WO2013169200A1 (en) * | 2012-05-10 | 2013-11-14 | Dellcron Ab | Method for placement of ducts/cables and device for planning placement thereof |
US9165232B2 (en) * | 2012-05-14 | 2015-10-20 | Corning Incorporated | Radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag-to-tag autoconnect discovery, and related methods, circuits, and systems |
US20150103336A1 (en) * | 2012-05-30 | 2015-04-16 | Reflex Photonics Inc. | Optical connector monitoring |
EP2864826B1 (en) | 2012-06-25 | 2018-08-08 | ADC Telecommunications, Inc. | Physical layer management for an active optical module |
DE202012103141U1 (en) * | 2012-08-20 | 2012-09-14 | Adva Optical Networking Se | Mobile terminal for servicing a telecommunication system |
WO2014049361A1 (en) | 2012-09-27 | 2014-04-03 | Tyco Electronics Uk Ltd. | Mobile application for assisting a technician in carrying out an electronic work order |
US9563832B2 (en) | 2012-10-08 | 2017-02-07 | Corning Incorporated | Excess radio-frequency (RF) power storage and power sharing RF identification (RFID) tags, and related connection systems and methods |
US9130318B2 (en) * | 2012-11-16 | 2015-09-08 | Tyco Electronics Uk Ltd. | Localized reading of RFID tags located on multiple sides of a port from a single side using RFID coupling circuit and portable RFID reader |
CN103067072B (en) * | 2012-12-18 | 2016-03-09 | 华为技术有限公司 | The method and apparatus of optical branching device, identification optical branching device and outlet port thereof |
US9111466B2 (en) * | 2013-01-17 | 2015-08-18 | Mellanoy Technologies Ltd. | Efficient access to connectivity information using cable identification |
US10050389B2 (en) | 2013-01-18 | 2018-08-14 | Mertek Industries, Llc | Field-terminable traceable cables, components, kits, and methods |
CN104348644A (en) * | 2013-07-31 | 2015-02-11 | 中兴通讯股份有限公司 | Management method, device and system of circuits and equipment |
US9810859B2 (en) | 2013-08-21 | 2017-11-07 | Mertek Industries, Llc | Traceable networking cables with remote-released connectors |
WO2015035014A1 (en) | 2013-09-04 | 2015-03-12 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Physical layer system with support for multiple active work orders and/or multiple active technicians |
CN103454736B (en) * | 2013-09-11 | 2015-02-25 | 江苏亨通光网科技有限公司 | Intelligent optical fiber wiring device and method and management system |
CN105824083B (en) * | 2013-09-13 | 2017-12-22 | 华为技术有限公司 | For in fiber optic cable networks to fibre method, apparatus and fiber optic cable networks |
KR20160118207A (en) | 2013-09-24 | 2016-10-11 | 콤스코프 테크놀로지스, 엘엘씨 | Pluggable active optical module with managed connectivity support and simulated memory table |
EP3123220A4 (en) | 2014-03-26 | 2017-11-01 | TE Connectivity Corporation | Optical adapter module with managed connectivity |
WO2016000776A1 (en) * | 2014-07-03 | 2016-01-07 | Telefonaktiebolaget L M Ericsson (Publ) | Antenna port identification for a wireless communication node |
US9735514B2 (en) | 2015-03-19 | 2017-08-15 | Mellanox Technologies, Ltd. | Connector module with internal wireless communication device |
KR20170099573A (en) * | 2016-02-24 | 2017-09-01 | 한국전자통신연구원 | Smart label, apparatus and method for contorlling optical network using the same |
DE112018000705T5 (en) | 2017-03-06 | 2019-11-14 | Cummins Filtration Ip, Inc. | DETECTION OF REAL FILTERS WITH A FILTER MONITORING SYSTEM |
JP7225410B2 (en) * | 2018-12-28 | 2023-02-20 | 華為技術有限公司 | Method and apparatus for establishing optical cable connection |
US11689247B2 (en) | 2019-01-16 | 2023-06-27 | Mertek Industries, Llc | Patch cord including wireless components |
US11934568B2 (en) | 2019-12-12 | 2024-03-19 | Mellanox Technologies, Ltd. | Cable security |
CN111178463B (en) * | 2019-12-16 | 2024-03-19 | 宝信软件(武汉)有限公司 | Label management method and system for optical fiber distribution cabinet |
Family Cites Families (314)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3052842A (en) | 1959-10-15 | 1962-09-04 | Lockheed Aircraft Corp | Patchcord connection aid and checking system |
US3609742A (en) | 1969-02-07 | 1971-09-28 | Hugh D Burdick | Property security system |
US3771098A (en) | 1972-05-16 | 1973-11-06 | Neurodyne Dempsey Inc | Ground wire monitoring system |
US3942859A (en) * | 1974-11-11 | 1976-03-09 | Korodi Miklos B | Electrical conductor with light indicating means |
US3931574A (en) * | 1974-11-19 | 1976-01-06 | Curtis Jr Ralph W | Device and method of wire wrap (or other electrical interconnection between I.C. sockets) checkout |
US4019128A (en) * | 1975-05-08 | 1977-04-19 | Rees, Inc. | Indicator light and testing circuit |
US4200862A (en) * | 1977-01-07 | 1980-04-29 | Pico Electronics Limited | Appliance control |
US4365238A (en) | 1979-06-08 | 1982-12-21 | Adam Kollin | Visual signalling apparatus |
US4418333A (en) | 1981-06-08 | 1983-11-29 | Pittway Corporation | Appliance control system |
US4578636A (en) * | 1983-11-28 | 1986-03-25 | Bakke John S | Apparatus for identifying wires of multiple wire electrical system |
US4630886A (en) | 1984-04-16 | 1986-12-23 | At&T Bell Laboratories | Lightguide distributing unit |
US4626633A (en) | 1985-02-04 | 1986-12-02 | Illinois Tool Works, Inc. | In-line switched telephone line tester |
US5692925A (en) | 1986-07-23 | 1997-12-02 | Virginia Patent Development Corporation | Modular plug comprising circuit elements |
DE3713262A1 (en) | 1987-04-18 | 1988-11-03 | Heidelberger Druckmasch Ag | CONNECTOR CODING FOR ELECTRICAL CABLES |
US4889977A (en) | 1987-12-21 | 1989-12-26 | Southwestern Bell Telephone Company | Method of identifying the disposition of plug-in units at a warehouse |
US4915639A (en) * | 1988-11-08 | 1990-04-10 | B.A.S.E.C. Industries, Ltd. | "Smart" AC receptacle and complementary plug |
US4937529A (en) | 1989-01-30 | 1990-06-26 | Toole Iii Charles S O | Electrical conductor identifying assembly |
US4924213A (en) * | 1989-03-23 | 1990-05-08 | Reed Devices, Inc. | Multiple terminal block indicator light combination |
US4978317A (en) | 1989-03-27 | 1990-12-18 | Alan Pocrass | Connector with visual indicator |
US5081627A (en) * | 1989-07-05 | 1992-01-14 | Casat Technologies, Inc. | Status and activity monitor for contention type local area networks |
EP0409226A3 (en) * | 1989-07-21 | 1993-01-13 | Hitachi, Ltd. | Power supply control system |
US5185570A (en) * | 1990-02-12 | 1993-02-09 | Helmuth J. Katz | Telecommunications signal detector |
US5199093A (en) * | 1990-05-22 | 1993-03-30 | Bicc Plc. | Multi-part optical fibre connectors |
US5244409A (en) | 1990-07-12 | 1993-09-14 | Woodhead Industries, Inc. | Molded connector with embedded indicators |
US5638818A (en) | 1991-03-21 | 1997-06-17 | Masimo Corporation | Low noise optical probe |
US5645440A (en) | 1995-10-16 | 1997-07-08 | Masimo Corporation | Patient cable connector |
US6580086B1 (en) | 1999-08-26 | 2003-06-17 | Masimo Corporation | Shielded optical probe and method |
US6541756B2 (en) * | 1991-03-21 | 2003-04-01 | Masimo Corporation | Shielded optical probe having an electrical connector |
US5995855A (en) | 1998-02-11 | 1999-11-30 | Masimo Corporation | Pulse oximetry sensor adapter |
US5483467A (en) * | 1992-06-10 | 1996-01-09 | Rit Technologies, Ltd. | Patching panel scanner |
US7158031B2 (en) | 1992-08-12 | 2007-01-02 | Micron Technology, Inc. | Thin, flexible, RFID label and system for use |
US5222164A (en) | 1992-08-27 | 1993-06-22 | International Business Machines Corporation | Electrically isolated optical connector identification system |
CA2081608C (en) | 1992-10-28 | 1998-05-05 | Joseph Octave Regis Morin | Distribution frame and optical connector holder combination |
US5305405A (en) * | 1993-02-25 | 1994-04-19 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Patch cord |
US5418334A (en) | 1993-08-04 | 1995-05-23 | Williams; Kenyon D. | Relative position tracer lamp indicator |
US5394503A (en) * | 1993-10-08 | 1995-02-28 | Data Switch Corporation | Optical fiber connection monitoring apparatus, patch panel control system and method of using same |
US5353367A (en) | 1993-11-29 | 1994-10-04 | Northern Telecom Limited | Distribution frame and optical connector holder combination |
US5613873A (en) * | 1993-12-16 | 1997-03-25 | Dell Usa, L.P. | Modular jack with integral light-emitting diode |
US5601451A (en) * | 1994-03-28 | 1997-02-11 | Amphenol Corporation | Combination connector |
US5473715A (en) | 1994-05-03 | 1995-12-05 | Methode Electronics, Inc. | Hybrid fiber optic/electrical connector |
US5448675A (en) | 1994-06-09 | 1995-09-05 | At&T Ipm Corp. | Telecommunications distribution frame with tracing |
US5461693A (en) | 1994-07-14 | 1995-10-24 | At&T Ipm Corp. | Optical fiber distribution frame with fiber testing |
US5666453A (en) | 1994-07-15 | 1997-09-09 | Roy Witte | Fiber optic jumper cables and tracing method using same |
IL110859A (en) | 1994-09-04 | 1999-12-31 | Rit Techn Ltd | Interconnection monitor system for telephone network |
US5528222A (en) | 1994-09-09 | 1996-06-18 | International Business Machines Corporation | Radio frequency circuit and memory in thin flexible package |
JP2905411B2 (en) | 1994-10-19 | 1999-06-14 | 矢崎総業株式会社 | connector |
US5910776A (en) | 1994-10-24 | 1999-06-08 | Id Technologies, Inc. | Method and apparatus for identifying locating or monitoring equipment or other objects |
US6113422A (en) | 1994-11-30 | 2000-09-05 | Berg Technology, Inc. | Connector with circuit devices and indicators |
CA2162515C (en) | 1994-12-22 | 2000-03-21 | Leonard George Cohen | Jumper tracing system |
JPH08191257A (en) * | 1995-01-11 | 1996-07-23 | Nippon Telegr & Teleph Corp <Ntt> | Maintenance and management system for network equipment |
US5741152A (en) * | 1995-04-25 | 1998-04-21 | Amphenol Corporation | Electrical connector with indicator lights |
US6496382B1 (en) | 1995-05-19 | 2002-12-17 | Kasten Chase Applied Research Limited | Radio frequency identification tag |
CA2176625C (en) | 1995-05-19 | 2008-07-15 | Donald Harold Fergusen | Radio frequency identification tag |
JP2757832B2 (en) | 1995-08-14 | 1998-05-25 | 日本電気株式会社 | Terminal device |
GB2305075A (en) | 1995-09-05 | 1997-03-26 | Ibm | Radio Frequency Tag for Electronic Apparatus |
US5660567A (en) | 1995-11-14 | 1997-08-26 | Nellcor Puritan Bennett Incorporated | Medical sensor connector with removable encoding device |
US5797767A (en) | 1996-05-31 | 1998-08-25 | Berg Technology, Inc. | Indicator light modular jack |
US6102741A (en) | 1996-06-03 | 2000-08-15 | Amphenol Corporation | Common mode filter connector with isolation |
US5700157A (en) | 1996-06-05 | 1997-12-23 | D-Link Corporation | Electric jack with display means |
US5704802A (en) * | 1996-06-14 | 1998-01-06 | Maxconn Incorporated | Modular jack assembly |
US5876240A (en) * | 1997-04-01 | 1999-03-02 | The Whitaker Corp | Stacked electrical connector with visual indicators |
US5685737A (en) | 1996-07-29 | 1997-11-11 | The Whitaker Corporation | Electrical connector having a visual indicator |
US5876239A (en) * | 1996-08-30 | 1999-03-02 | The Whitaker Corporation | Electrical connector having a light indicator |
US5847557A (en) | 1997-06-06 | 1998-12-08 | Fincher; William C. | Wire pair identification method |
US6025725A (en) * | 1996-12-05 | 2000-02-15 | Massachusetts Institute Of Technology | Electrically active resonant structures for wireless monitoring and control |
US5764043A (en) | 1996-12-20 | 1998-06-09 | Siecor Corporation | Traceable patch cord and connector assembly and method for locating patch cord ends |
TW315057U (en) | 1996-12-31 | 1997-09-01 | Insert Entpr Co Ltd | Coaxial cable connector having the indication light |
US5915993A (en) | 1997-02-27 | 1999-06-29 | Berg Technology, Inc. | Assembly containing a modular jack and a light emitting diode |
US6224417B1 (en) | 1997-02-27 | 2001-05-01 | Berg Technology, Inc. | Assembly containing a modular jack and a light emitting diode |
US5885100A (en) * | 1997-05-12 | 1999-03-23 | Molex Incorporated | Electrical connector with light transmission means |
US6768415B1 (en) * | 1997-10-03 | 2004-07-27 | Micron Technology, Inc. | Wireless identification device, RFID device with push-on/push-off switch, method of manufacturing wireless identification device |
US6243654B1 (en) | 1997-10-07 | 2001-06-05 | Telemonitor, Inc. | Transducer assembly with smart connector |
US6164551A (en) | 1997-10-29 | 2000-12-26 | Meto International Gmbh | Radio frequency identification transponder having non-encapsulated IC chip |
US6126610A (en) | 1997-11-03 | 2000-10-03 | Novametrix Medical Systems, Inc. | Pneumatic connector with encoding |
DE59814050D1 (en) * | 1997-11-11 | 2007-08-16 | Ccs Technology Inc | Method for managing and documenting contact points of a wiring network |
FI113420B (en) | 1997-11-14 | 2004-04-15 | Iws Internat Inc Oy | Intelligent control device for vehicle power distribution |
US6116962A (en) | 1997-11-17 | 2000-09-12 | Xircom Inc | Type III PCMCIA card with integrated receptacles for receiving standard communications plugs |
US5984731A (en) | 1997-11-17 | 1999-11-16 | Xircom, Inc. | Removable I/O device with integrated receptacles for receiving standard plugs |
US6095851A (en) | 1997-11-17 | 2000-08-01 | Xircom, Inc. | Status indicator for electronic device |
US6421322B1 (en) | 1997-11-17 | 2002-07-16 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | System and method for electronically identifying connections of a cross-connect system |
JP2001510670A (en) | 1997-12-05 | 2001-07-31 | コーニンクレッカ フィリップス エレクトロニクス エヌ ヴィ | Identification transponder |
US6068627A (en) | 1997-12-10 | 2000-05-30 | Valleylab, Inc. | Smart recognition apparatus and method |
US6127929A (en) | 1997-12-23 | 2000-10-03 | Em Microelectronic-Marin Sa | Transponder for half-duplex communication |
US6118379A (en) | 1997-12-31 | 2000-09-12 | Intermec Ip Corp. | Radio frequency identification transponder having a spiral antenna |
TW421300U (en) | 1998-03-25 | 2001-02-01 | Insert Entpr Co Ltd | Lead frame of connector |
US6352446B2 (en) * | 1998-03-25 | 2002-03-05 | Hirose Electric Co., Ltd. | Modular jack assembly having light transmission means with a light indicator |
TW389391U (en) | 1998-05-06 | 2000-05-01 | Hon Hai Prec Ind Co Ltd | Electrical connector with display units |
US6174194B1 (en) * | 1998-11-09 | 2001-01-16 | Molex Incorporated | Add-on electrical assembly with light transmission means |
US6002331A (en) | 1998-07-20 | 1999-12-14 | Laor; Herzel | Method and apparatus for identifying and tracking connections of communication lines |
US6116946A (en) | 1998-07-27 | 2000-09-12 | Lewis; Daniel Raymond | Surface mounted modular jack with integrated magnetics and LEDS |
EP1862982B1 (en) | 1998-08-14 | 2014-11-19 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Method of interrogating a package bearing an RFID tag |
DE19841738C2 (en) | 1998-08-26 | 2001-05-17 | Ifam Ingenieurbuero Fuer Appli | Switch socket or mobile socket unit |
US6227911B1 (en) | 1998-09-09 | 2001-05-08 | Amphenol Corporation | RJ contact/filter modules and multiport filter connector utilizing such modules |
US6100804A (en) | 1998-10-29 | 2000-08-08 | Intecmec Ip Corp. | Radio frequency identification system |
US6152762A (en) | 1998-11-12 | 2000-11-28 | Berg Technology, Inc. | Modular jack with side mounted light emitting diode |
US5999400A (en) | 1998-11-30 | 1999-12-07 | Berg Technology, Inc. | Modular plug with electronic components |
US6222975B1 (en) * | 1998-12-11 | 2001-04-24 | Lucent Technologies, Inc. | System and method for detecting and reporting the use of optical fibers in fiber optic cables |
TW404586U (en) * | 1998-12-28 | 2000-09-01 | Hon Hai Prec Ind Co Ltd | Module type electrical connector |
US6120318A (en) | 1999-01-26 | 2000-09-19 | The Whitaker Corporation | Stacked electrical connector having visual indicator subassembly |
US6350148B1 (en) * | 1999-02-10 | 2002-02-26 | Avaya Technology Corp. | Method and device for detecting the presence of a patch cord connector in a telecommunications patch system |
US6234830B1 (en) | 1999-02-10 | 2001-05-22 | Avaya Technology Corp. | Tracing interface module for patch cords in a telecommunications system |
US6330307B1 (en) | 1999-02-10 | 2001-12-11 | Avaya Technology Corp. | Display panel overlay structure and method for tracing interface modules in a telecommunications patch system |
US6285293B1 (en) | 1999-02-10 | 2001-09-04 | Avaya Technology Corp. | System and method for addressing and tracing patch cords in a dedicated telecommunications system |
US6424710B1 (en) | 1999-02-10 | 2002-07-23 | Avaya Technology Corp. | Method and device for detecting the presence of a patch cord connector in a telecommunications patch system using passive detection sensors |
US6522737B1 (en) * | 1999-02-10 | 2003-02-18 | Avaya Technology Corp. | System and method of operation for a telecommunications patch system |
US6688910B1 (en) * | 1999-02-10 | 2004-02-10 | Avaya Technology Corp. | System and method for automatic addressing of devices in a dedicated telecommunications system |
JP4406950B2 (en) | 1999-02-23 | 2010-02-03 | パナソニック電工株式会社 | Connector receptacle |
US6325664B1 (en) | 1999-03-11 | 2001-12-04 | Pulse Engineering, Inc. | Shielded microelectronic connector with indicators and method of manufacturing |
SG74714A1 (en) * | 1999-04-06 | 2001-08-21 | Cablesoft Inc | A system for monitoring connection pattern of data ports |
DK1607876T3 (en) * | 1999-04-06 | 2009-09-28 | Itracs Corp | Kit to determine the connectivity pattern of data ports |
DE19920452A1 (en) | 1999-05-04 | 2000-11-30 | Siemens Ag | Optical connector for optical communications system has reduced probability of faulty configuration by network management system |
EP1050767A3 (en) * | 1999-05-04 | 2003-05-02 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Optical connector |
US6428361B1 (en) | 1999-05-24 | 2002-08-06 | Stewart Connector Systems, Inc. | Surface mountable connector assembly including a printed circuit board |
US6298255B1 (en) | 1999-06-09 | 2001-10-02 | Aspect Medical Systems, Inc. | Smart electrophysiological sensor system with automatic authentication and validation and an interface for a smart electrophysiological sensor system |
US6368155B1 (en) * | 1999-07-16 | 2002-04-09 | Molex Incorporated | Intelligent sensing connectors |
JP2001069625A (en) * | 1999-08-26 | 2001-03-16 | Matsushita Electric Works Ltd | Control system for utility pole |
US6499861B1 (en) | 1999-09-23 | 2002-12-31 | Avaya Technology Corp. | Illuminated patch cord connector ports for use in a telecommunications patch closet having patch cord tracing capabilities |
US6222908B1 (en) * | 1999-09-23 | 2001-04-24 | Avaya Technology Corp. | Method and device for identifying a specific patch cord connector as it is introduced into, or removed from, a telecommunications patch system |
US6784802B1 (en) | 1999-11-04 | 2004-08-31 | Nordx/Cdt, Inc. | Real time monitoring of cable patch panel |
US6577243B1 (en) | 1999-12-14 | 2003-06-10 | Alan J. Brown | Method and apparatus for tracing remote ends of networking cables |
US7327278B2 (en) * | 1999-12-14 | 2008-02-05 | Alan J. Brown | Method and apparatus for tracing remote ends of networking cables |
US6522308B1 (en) * | 2000-01-03 | 2003-02-18 | Ask S.A. | Variable capacitance coupling antenna |
JP2003519878A (en) | 2000-01-14 | 2003-06-24 | スリーエム イノベイティブ プロパティズ カンパニー | User interface for portable RFID reader |
US6377203B1 (en) * | 2000-02-01 | 2002-04-23 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Collision arbitration method and apparatus for reading multiple radio frequency identification tags |
US6961675B2 (en) | 2000-03-14 | 2005-11-01 | Itracs Corporation | System for monitoring connection pattern of data ports |
EP1143574A1 (en) | 2000-04-05 | 2001-10-10 | Molex Incorporated | Electrical connector assembly with light transmission module |
US7016726B1 (en) * | 2000-05-17 | 2006-03-21 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Smart medical connector system and method of use |
US6319051B1 (en) | 2000-05-23 | 2001-11-20 | Speed Tech Corp. | Electric connector with a light penetrable socket shell |
US6424315B1 (en) | 2000-08-02 | 2002-07-23 | Amkor Technology, Inc. | Semiconductor chip having a radio-frequency identification transceiver |
WO2002013135A2 (en) * | 2000-08-04 | 2002-02-14 | Hei, Inc. | Structures and assembly methods for radio-frequency-identification modules |
US6439922B1 (en) | 2000-09-20 | 2002-08-27 | Tyco Electronics Corporation | Visual indicators having common cathode leads, and an electrical connector using same |
ATE314721T1 (en) | 2000-09-25 | 2006-01-15 | Symetrix Corp | FERRO-ELECTRIC MEMORY AND ITS OPERATING METHOD |
US6556761B1 (en) * | 2000-09-29 | 2003-04-29 | Fitel Usa Corp. | Shelf detection system for a fiber distribution frame |
US6456768B1 (en) | 2000-10-18 | 2002-09-24 | Fitel Usa Corp. | Optical fiber cable tracing system |
US6829427B1 (en) | 2000-10-24 | 2004-12-07 | Biolase Technology, Inc. | Fiber detector apparatus and related methods |
TW467423U (en) | 2000-10-26 | 2001-12-01 | Hon Hai Prec Ind Co Ltd | Electrical connector |
US6354884B1 (en) * | 2000-10-27 | 2002-03-12 | Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd. | Modular jack connector with anti-mismating device |
US6602530B1 (en) | 2000-11-03 | 2003-08-05 | Premark Feg L.L.C. | Atmospheric steamer |
AU2002217796A1 (en) | 2000-11-22 | 2002-06-03 | Jack E. Caveney | Network revision system with probe |
US6424263B1 (en) | 2000-12-01 | 2002-07-23 | Microchip Technology Incorporated | Radio frequency identification tag on a single layer substrate |
TW531098U (en) | 2000-12-30 | 2003-05-01 | Yu-Min Liu | Electrical connector embedded with electronic devices |
US20020092347A1 (en) | 2001-01-17 | 2002-07-18 | Niekerk Jan Van | Radio frequency identification tag tire inflation pressure monitoring and location determining method and apparatus |
US6846115B1 (en) * | 2001-01-29 | 2005-01-25 | Jds Uniphase Corporation | Methods, apparatus, and systems of fiber optic modules, elastomeric connections, and retention mechanisms therefor |
US7028087B2 (en) * | 2001-02-23 | 2006-04-11 | Panduit Corp. | Network documentation system with electronic modules |
US6431906B1 (en) | 2001-02-28 | 2002-08-13 | Fci Americas Technology, Inc. | Modular connectors with detachable line status indicators |
US6543940B2 (en) * | 2001-04-05 | 2003-04-08 | Max Chu | Fiber converter faceplate outlet |
US7014100B2 (en) * | 2001-04-27 | 2006-03-21 | Marathon Oil Company | Process and assembly for identifying and tracking assets |
US7069345B2 (en) | 2001-05-09 | 2006-06-27 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Device identification and control in network environment |
DE10126351A1 (en) * | 2001-05-30 | 2002-12-12 | Ccs Technology Inc | Optical distribution device and fiber optic connection cable |
US6729910B2 (en) | 2001-06-01 | 2004-05-04 | Telect, Inc. | DSX jack LED activation and grounding system |
GB0115788D0 (en) | 2001-06-28 | 2001-08-22 | Renishaw Plc | Tool identification |
US20030021580A1 (en) * | 2001-07-18 | 2003-01-30 | Photoris, Inc. | Method and apparatus for coupling terminal equipment to a node in an optical communications network |
US6618022B2 (en) | 2001-07-20 | 2003-09-09 | Delta Systems, Inc. | Radio frequency powered switch |
TW568412U (en) | 2001-08-31 | 2003-12-21 | Hon Hai Prec Ind Co Ltd | Electric connector having fix and hold device |
US6457993B1 (en) | 2001-08-31 | 2002-10-01 | Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd. | Modular jack with LED |
GB0122163D0 (en) * | 2001-09-13 | 2001-10-31 | Tagtec Ltd | Wireless communication system |
US20030061393A1 (en) * | 2001-09-21 | 2003-03-27 | Frank Steegmans | System and method for improving the management of information in networks by disposing machine accessible information tags along the interconnection means |
US6733186B2 (en) | 2001-09-27 | 2004-05-11 | Siemens Information & Communication Networks, Inc. | Optical connection verification apparatus and method |
US7014500B2 (en) * | 2001-10-16 | 2006-03-21 | Adam Belesimo | Testing assembly and method for identifying network circuits |
TW538585B (en) | 2001-10-30 | 2003-06-21 | Primax Electronics Ltd | Power adapting device applied in portable electronic device |
US6478611B1 (en) | 2001-11-08 | 2002-11-12 | Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd. | Electrical connector with visual indicator |
US6859349B2 (en) | 2001-11-14 | 2005-02-22 | Computer Data Exchange Services | Combination power circuit light coding system |
TW510607U (en) | 2001-11-15 | 2002-11-11 | Hon Hai Prec Ind Co Ltd | Electrical connector assembly |
TW519320U (en) | 2001-11-26 | 2003-01-21 | Starlink Electronics Corp | USB electrical connector having signal transmission indicating apparatus |
US20030100217A1 (en) | 2001-11-27 | 2003-05-29 | Lee-Jen Wu | Connector casing structure having light-guiding property |
US6409530B1 (en) | 2001-11-28 | 2002-06-25 | Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd. | Power jack |
JP3857580B2 (en) * | 2001-12-06 | 2006-12-13 | 株式会社ジャパンリーコム | Optical cable connection switching closure |
DE20120192U1 (en) | 2001-12-13 | 2003-02-06 | Ccs Technology Inc | Patch Cable Management System |
US6688908B2 (en) * | 2002-01-11 | 2004-02-10 | Kycon, Incorporated | Stacked DC power jack with LED |
JP3776356B2 (en) | 2002-01-15 | 2006-05-17 | 東京通信機工業株式会社 | Optical connector with memory function |
US7656903B2 (en) | 2002-01-30 | 2010-02-02 | Panduit Corp. | System and methods for documenting networks with electronic modules |
US7376734B2 (en) | 2002-02-14 | 2008-05-20 | Panduit Corp. | VOIP telephone location system |
US20030148654A1 (en) | 2002-02-06 | 2003-08-07 | Chin-Mao Kan | Structure improvement for connection seat |
US6917763B1 (en) | 2002-03-05 | 2005-07-12 | Nortel Networks Limited | Technique for verifying fiber connectivity in a photonic network |
JP2003284213A (en) * | 2002-03-26 | 2003-10-03 | Kenden Setsubi Kk | Connecting/branching work managing system for optical fiber core |
US6881096B2 (en) * | 2002-04-15 | 2005-04-19 | Lantronix, Inc. | Compact serial-to-ethernet conversion port |
US6773298B2 (en) | 2002-05-06 | 2004-08-10 | Pulse Engineering, Inc. | Connector assembly with light source sub-assemblies and method of manufacturing |
US20030211782A1 (en) | 2002-05-07 | 2003-11-13 | Mr. Joseph Lorenzo De Guzman | Filtered RJ11 connector module with LED indicators and method of manufacturing |
US6847912B2 (en) * | 2002-05-07 | 2005-01-25 | Marconi Intellectual Property (Us) Inc. | RFID temperature device and method |
CA2387106A1 (en) | 2002-05-21 | 2003-11-21 | Information Mediary Corporation | Method for measuring temperature using a remote, passive, calibrated rf/rfid tag including a method for calibration |
US6808116B1 (en) | 2002-05-29 | 2004-10-26 | At&T Corp. | Fiber jumpers with data storage method and apparatus |
JP2004038583A (en) * | 2002-07-03 | 2004-02-05 | Nippon Telegr & Teleph Corp <Ntt> | Wiring route management system, wiring route locating device used therefor, and id writing device |
US6798956B2 (en) | 2002-07-16 | 2004-09-28 | Sun Microsystems, Inc. | Optical cable with indicator |
US7028202B2 (en) * | 2002-07-24 | 2006-04-11 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Power adapter identification |
US6750643B2 (en) | 2002-08-05 | 2004-06-15 | Richard Hwang | Group wiring patching system and method for wire pair identification |
US6898368B2 (en) | 2002-09-13 | 2005-05-24 | Fitel Usa Corp. | Adapter systems for dynamically updating information related to a network and methods for developing the adapter systems |
US7081808B2 (en) | 2002-09-13 | 2006-07-25 | Fitel Usa Corp. | Self-registration systems and methods for dynamically updating information related to a network |
US20040052471A1 (en) | 2002-09-13 | 2004-03-18 | Fitel Usa Corp. | Connector systems for dynamically updating information related to a network and methods for developing the connector systems |
US6663417B1 (en) | 2002-09-20 | 2003-12-16 | Weison Technologies Co., Ltd. | Electrical connector with light emitting device |
DE10244304B3 (en) | 2002-09-23 | 2004-03-18 | Data-Complex E.K. | Arrangement for monitoring patch panels at distributor points in data networks has patch cables that can be plugged into connections in patch fields with plugs, each fitted with a transponder |
DE10245140B4 (en) | 2002-09-27 | 2005-10-20 | Dornier Medtech Laser Gmbh | Intelligent therapy fiber |
JP4028354B2 (en) * | 2002-10-01 | 2007-12-26 | 株式会社フジクラ | Optical connector with shutter |
DE10249414A1 (en) | 2002-10-23 | 2004-05-13 | Siemens Ag | Electronic communications-compatible pluggable connector unit e.g. for product data handling, has component-specific information electronically stored by data carrier |
JP3638933B2 (en) | 2002-11-15 | 2005-04-13 | 東京通信機工業株式会社 | Wiring device |
JP3745728B2 (en) | 2002-11-15 | 2006-02-15 | 東京通信機工業株式会社 | Adapter for memory function connector |
US6777617B2 (en) | 2002-12-30 | 2004-08-17 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Telecommunications terminal |
US6940408B2 (en) | 2002-12-31 | 2005-09-06 | Avery Dennison Corporation | RFID device and method of forming |
US7224280B2 (en) | 2002-12-31 | 2007-05-29 | Avery Dennison Corporation | RFID device and method of forming |
US6773306B2 (en) | 2003-01-06 | 2004-08-10 | Paul J. Plishner | Connector having integrated circuits embedded in the connector body for making the connector a dynamic component of an electrical system having sections connected by the connector |
US6655988B1 (en) | 2003-01-13 | 2003-12-02 | Tyco Electronics Corporation | Multi-port modular jack assembly with LED indicators |
US7869974B2 (en) | 2003-01-15 | 2011-01-11 | Plishner Paul J | Connector or other circuit element having an indirectly coupled integrated circuit |
US6913481B2 (en) | 2003-01-23 | 2005-07-05 | Fci Americas Technology, Inc. | Modular jack with visual indicator |
US6953919B2 (en) | 2003-01-30 | 2005-10-11 | Thermal Solutions, Inc. | RFID-controlled smart range and method of cooking and heating |
US6900629B2 (en) | 2003-01-31 | 2005-05-31 | Richard Hwang | Group wiring device for facilitating wire pair identification |
JP2004245958A (en) | 2003-02-12 | 2004-09-02 | Fujikura Ltd | Optical fiber cable and method and apparatus for manufacturing optical fiber cable |
US6973243B2 (en) | 2003-02-13 | 2005-12-06 | Fujikura Ltd. | Cable |
US6890197B2 (en) | 2003-02-13 | 2005-05-10 | Gateway, Inc. | RJ-45 jack with RJ-11 detection |
ITMI20030402A1 (en) | 2003-03-05 | 2004-09-06 | Sirti Spa | NETWORK MAPPING SYSTEM. |
US7253735B2 (en) | 2003-03-24 | 2007-08-07 | Alien Technology Corporation | RFID tags and processes for producing RFID tags |
JP2004303701A (en) | 2003-04-01 | 2004-10-28 | Seiko Epson Corp | Incorrect plug insertion preventing system, plug, plug insertion part, plug control program, non-contact identification tag control program and plug insertion part control program |
TW592396U (en) | 2003-04-08 | 2004-06-11 | Speed Tech Corp | Improved structure of laminated light emitting connector |
US6888996B2 (en) | 2003-04-28 | 2005-05-03 | Richard Hwang | Fiber optic cable identification kit and its method |
US6857897B2 (en) * | 2003-04-29 | 2005-02-22 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Remote cable assist |
US6871156B2 (en) * | 2003-04-30 | 2005-03-22 | The Boeing Company | Smart connector patch panel |
JP2004361896A (en) * | 2003-06-09 | 2004-12-24 | Fujikura Ltd | Optical line object winding tool and optical line object manufacturing device using the same, management method therefor, and optical line object manufacturing method using the same |
TWM242873U (en) | 2003-07-11 | 2004-09-01 | Egbon Electronics Ltd | Electric connector combination |
JP2005056719A (en) | 2003-08-05 | 2005-03-03 | Nec Corp | Connector and connector component |
US6847856B1 (en) * | 2003-08-29 | 2005-01-25 | Lucent Technologies Inc. | Method for determining juxtaposition of physical components with use of RFID tags |
US20050052174A1 (en) * | 2003-09-05 | 2005-03-10 | Angelo Deborah A. | Traceable patch cable and connector assembly and method for identifying patch cable ends |
US7352289B1 (en) * | 2003-09-11 | 2008-04-01 | Sun Microsystems, Inc. | System and method for detecting the connection state of a network cable connector |
US7173345B2 (en) * | 2003-09-15 | 2007-02-06 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Multi-function integrated automation cable connector system and method |
TWM249341U (en) | 2003-09-19 | 2004-11-01 | Hon Hai Prec Ind Co Ltd | Modular jack |
GB2406447B (en) * | 2003-09-26 | 2006-06-21 | Hellermanntyton Data Ltd | Structured cabling system and patching method |
US7026936B2 (en) * | 2003-09-30 | 2006-04-11 | Id Solutions, Inc. | Distributed RF coupled system |
US20050076982A1 (en) * | 2003-10-09 | 2005-04-14 | Metcalf Arthur Richard | Post patch assembly for mounting devices in a tire interior |
US20050111491A1 (en) | 2003-10-23 | 2005-05-26 | Panduit Corporation | System to guide and monitor the installation and revision of network cabling of an active jack network |
EP1687761B1 (en) | 2003-11-04 | 2010-03-31 | Avery Dennison Corporation | Rfid tag with enhanced readability |
US6921284B2 (en) | 2003-11-06 | 2005-07-26 | Belkin Corporation | Electrical connector |
US7207846B2 (en) * | 2003-11-24 | 2007-04-24 | Panduit Corp. | Patch panel with a motherboard for connecting communication jacks |
US7062139B2 (en) | 2003-12-03 | 2006-06-13 | Prime Optical Fiber Corporation | Core of an optical patch cord and an optical signal transmission system using the same and a method for preparing the same |
US6999028B2 (en) * | 2003-12-23 | 2006-02-14 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Ultra high frequency radio frequency identification tag |
CA2848301A1 (en) | 2004-01-09 | 2005-07-28 | United Parcel Service Of America, Inc. | System, method and apparatus for capturing telematics data with an active rfid tag |
TW200605454A (en) * | 2004-01-20 | 2006-02-01 | Siemon Co | Patch panel system |
JP2005234620A (en) * | 2004-02-17 | 2005-09-02 | Nec Fielding Ltd | Utilization system for management of network design and construction |
JP2005235615A (en) | 2004-02-20 | 2005-09-02 | Hitachi Maxell Ltd | Adapter panel, electronic equipment and cable connector recognition system |
US7046899B2 (en) | 2004-03-02 | 2006-05-16 | Furukawa Electric North America, Inc. | Universal apparatus for incorporating intelligence into an optical fiber distribution frame |
US6979223B2 (en) | 2004-03-26 | 2005-12-27 | Wilson Chen | Indicator circuit arrangement of a transmission cable for computer |
US7170393B2 (en) * | 2004-03-30 | 2007-01-30 | Lucent Technologies, Inc. | Method and apparatus for the automatic determination of network cable connections using RFID tags and an antenna grid |
US7243837B2 (en) | 2004-04-02 | 2007-07-17 | Stratos International, Inc. | Media converter RFID security tag |
US20050224585A1 (en) | 2004-04-02 | 2005-10-13 | Durrant Richard C E | Radio frequency identification of a connector by a patch panel or other similar structure |
US7165728B2 (en) * | 2004-04-02 | 2007-01-23 | Stratos International, Inc. | Radio frequency identification for transfer of component information in fiber optic testing |
JP2005315980A (en) * | 2004-04-27 | 2005-11-10 | Tokyo Tsushinki Kogyo Kk | Optical wiring searching system |
US7151455B2 (en) | 2004-04-30 | 2006-12-19 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Activating a data tag by load or orientation or user control |
US7123810B2 (en) | 2004-05-04 | 2006-10-17 | Bellsouth Intellectual Property Corporation | Optical fiber connectors with identification circuits and distribution terminals that communicate therewith |
TWM262858U (en) | 2004-05-10 | 2005-04-21 | Partner Tech Corp | USB transmission line with power display |
US7197214B2 (en) * | 2004-05-24 | 2007-03-27 | Corning Cable Systems Llc | Methods and apparatus for facilitating cable locating |
JP2005341738A (en) * | 2004-05-28 | 2005-12-08 | Showa Electric Wire & Cable Co Ltd | Searching method of laying cable |
JP4337645B2 (en) | 2004-06-17 | 2009-09-30 | セイコーエプソン株式会社 | IC tag module, electronic device, information communication system, and IC tag module communication control method |
US7038135B1 (en) | 2004-06-28 | 2006-05-02 | Avaya Technology Corp. | Embedded cable connection identification circuits |
US6968994B1 (en) | 2004-07-06 | 2005-11-29 | Nortel Networks Ltd | RF-ID for cable management and port identification |
US7306489B2 (en) | 2004-07-26 | 2007-12-11 | Fci Americas Technology, Inc. | Performance indicating electrical connector |
US7024089B2 (en) * | 2004-07-26 | 2006-04-04 | Sbc Knowledge Ventures, L.P. | Fiber distribution frame arrangement having a centralized controller which universally controls and monitors access to fiber distribution frames |
US20060039136A1 (en) * | 2004-08-20 | 2006-02-23 | Probasco Max A | Lighted plug apparatus |
US7319397B2 (en) | 2004-08-26 | 2008-01-15 | Avante International Technology, Inc. | RFID device for object monitoring, locating, and tracking |
US7158033B2 (en) * | 2004-09-01 | 2007-01-02 | Avery Dennison Corporation | RFID device with combined reactive coupler |
US20060044148A1 (en) * | 2004-09-02 | 2006-03-02 | International Business Machines Corporation | On-demand system for connector access independent of ambient light level |
JP4324059B2 (en) * | 2004-09-03 | 2009-09-02 | 株式会社日立製作所 | IC tag mounting harness |
JP4510935B2 (en) * | 2004-09-29 | 2010-07-28 | 株式会社富士通エフサス | Device layout display system and device layout display method |
US7205898B2 (en) * | 2004-10-04 | 2007-04-17 | Dixon Paul F | RFID tags |
US7221277B2 (en) | 2004-10-05 | 2007-05-22 | Tracking Technologies, Inc. | Radio frequency identification tag and method of making the same |
US20060206246A1 (en) | 2004-10-28 | 2006-09-14 | Walker Richard C | Second national / international management and security system for responsible global resourcing through technical management to brige cultural and economic desparity |
US7297018B2 (en) | 2004-11-03 | 2007-11-20 | Panduit Corp. | Method and apparatus for patch panel patch cord documentation and revision |
US7680388B2 (en) | 2004-11-03 | 2010-03-16 | Adc Telecommunications, Inc. | Methods for configuring and testing fiber drop terminals |
US7219834B2 (en) | 2004-11-04 | 2007-05-22 | Footprint Systems Inc. | System and method for tracking installed equipment and deploying spare parts |
EP1820355B1 (en) | 2004-12-06 | 2015-02-18 | Commscope Inc. Of North Carolina | Telecommunications patching system that utilizes rfid tags to detect and identify patch cord interconnections |
US7298946B2 (en) | 2004-12-22 | 2007-11-20 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Multi-fiber cable for efficient manageability of optical system |
US7233250B2 (en) | 2004-12-29 | 2007-06-19 | Avery Dennison Corporation | Radio frequency identification device with visual indicator |
JP4585324B2 (en) | 2005-01-26 | 2010-11-24 | 株式会社日立製作所 | Electrical device control method and electrical device control system |
DE102005004905A1 (en) | 2005-02-02 | 2006-08-10 | Thomas Horn | Connection e.g. plug-in connection, monitoring arrangement for use in e.g. office room, has plug and connector each assigned with transponders, and reader electronics and antenna for selecting transponders |
US7294786B2 (en) | 2005-04-06 | 2007-11-13 | International Business Machines Corporation | System and method for managing a cable in a server system |
US7221284B2 (en) | 2005-04-13 | 2007-05-22 | Mertek Industries, Llc | Networking cable tracer system |
JP2006295729A (en) | 2005-04-13 | 2006-10-26 | Fujitsu Ltd | Rfid tag and antenna arrangement method |
EP1875287A1 (en) * | 2005-04-19 | 2008-01-09 | ADC Telecommunications, Inc. | Loop back plug and method |
US7307408B2 (en) | 2005-05-09 | 2007-12-11 | Gregory Porcu | Cable locating device |
US7298266B2 (en) | 2005-05-09 | 2007-11-20 | Avery Dennison | RFID communication systems and methods |
CN2800555Y (en) * | 2005-05-31 | 2006-07-26 | 富士康(昆山)电脑接插件有限公司 | Power supply connector |
US7416347B2 (en) | 2005-05-31 | 2008-08-26 | Commscope Solutions Properties, Llc | Optical fiber array connectivity system with indicia to facilitate connectivity in four orientations for dual functionality |
US7252538B2 (en) | 2005-06-03 | 2007-08-07 | Telect Inc. | Tracer lamp arrangement |
US20060282529A1 (en) | 2005-06-14 | 2006-12-14 | Panduit Corp. | Method and apparatus for monitoring physical network topology information |
CN2809966Y (en) * | 2005-06-21 | 2006-08-23 | 富士康(昆山)电脑接插件有限公司 | Power supply connector |
US20070015410A1 (en) * | 2005-07-12 | 2007-01-18 | Siemon John A | Telecommunications connector with modular element |
US20070013487A1 (en) * | 2005-07-18 | 2007-01-18 | Jan Scholtz | Digital certificate on connectors and other products using RFID tags and/or labels as well as RFID reader/interrogator |
US8009118B2 (en) * | 2005-07-27 | 2011-08-30 | Electronics And Telecommunications Research Institute | Open-ended two-strip meander line antenna, RFID tag using the antenna, and antenna impedance matching method thereof |
WO2007019425A1 (en) * | 2005-08-08 | 2007-02-15 | Panduit Corp. | Systems and methods for detecting a patch cord end connection |
EP1757966A3 (en) | 2005-08-23 | 2007-12-19 | KT Corporation | Apparatus and method for identification of optical cable |
US7234944B2 (en) | 2005-08-26 | 2007-06-26 | Panduit Corp. | Patch field documentation and revision systems |
US20070152828A1 (en) | 2005-08-31 | 2007-07-05 | Mohalik Swarup K | Methods and apparatus for tag activation |
US7336883B2 (en) * | 2005-09-08 | 2008-02-26 | Stratos International, Inc. | Indexing optical fiber adapter |
US20070059975A1 (en) * | 2005-09-15 | 2007-03-15 | Walsh Peter J | Connector having light pipe formed therein |
US7224278B2 (en) | 2005-10-18 | 2007-05-29 | Avery Dennison Corporation | Label with electronic components and method of making same |
JP4972911B2 (en) | 2005-11-18 | 2012-07-11 | 株式会社日立製作所 | RFID readers used in RFID built-in cable systems |
US20070117450A1 (en) | 2005-11-18 | 2007-05-24 | Truxes William W | Novel jack form LED lamp package and caddy |
US7226217B1 (en) | 2005-11-18 | 2007-06-05 | Stratos International, Inc. | Transceiver/fiber optic connector adaptor with patch cord ID reading capability |
JP4643423B2 (en) | 2005-12-01 | 2011-03-02 | 富士通コンポーネント株式会社 | Cable connector type transceiver module |
US7217152B1 (en) | 2005-12-19 | 2007-05-15 | Telect Inc. | Patch panel with tracer |
TWI285988B (en) | 2006-01-03 | 2007-08-21 | Delta Electronics Inc | Connector and indicator thereof |
US20070176745A1 (en) | 2006-01-30 | 2007-08-02 | Telect, Inc. | Telecom Equipment With RFIDs |
WO2007106528A2 (en) | 2006-03-14 | 2007-09-20 | The Siemon Company | Methods and systems to monitor physical layer connections |
US7436310B2 (en) | 2006-03-29 | 2008-10-14 | Lucent Technologies Inc. | Patch panel cover mounted antenna grid for use in the automatic determination of network cable connections using RFID tags |
US20070247284A1 (en) | 2006-04-11 | 2007-10-25 | Martin Clifford E | Column based antenna array employing antenna field shaping for use in the automatic determination of network cable connections using RFID tags |
TWI297936B (en) | 2006-04-14 | 2008-06-11 | Rfid package structure | |
US7356208B2 (en) * | 2006-05-03 | 2008-04-08 | Biolase Technology, Inc. | Fiber detector apparatus and related methods |
DE102006030077A1 (en) | 2006-06-28 | 2008-01-03 | Weidmüller Interface GmbH & Co. KG | Electrical plug connection with coding |
US7429188B2 (en) * | 2006-07-03 | 2008-09-30 | Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd. | Cable connector assembly with status indicator means |
US7247046B1 (en) | 2006-07-03 | 2007-07-24 | Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd | Connector assembly having status indator means |
WO2008009023A2 (en) | 2006-07-14 | 2008-01-17 | Emerson Electric Co. | Rfid detection system for enhanced marketing |
CN200941473Y (en) * | 2006-08-01 | 2007-08-29 | 富士康(昆山)电脑接插件有限公司 | Easy-to-mould parts and electrical connector having the same |
US20080090451A1 (en) * | 2006-10-12 | 2008-04-17 | Sangoma Technologies Corporation | Apparatus and method for integrating an indicator light in a connector assembly |
US7782202B2 (en) | 2006-10-31 | 2010-08-24 | Corning Cable Systems, Llc | Radio frequency identification of component connections |
US20080106415A1 (en) | 2006-11-08 | 2008-05-08 | Macsema, Inc. | Information tag |
US9754444B2 (en) | 2006-12-06 | 2017-09-05 | Cfph, Llc | Method and apparatus for advertising on a mobile gaming device |
US8264355B2 (en) * | 2006-12-14 | 2012-09-11 | Corning Cable Systems Llc | RFID systems and methods for optical fiber network deployment and maintenance |
US7760094B1 (en) | 2006-12-14 | 2010-07-20 | Corning Cable Systems Llc | RFID systems and methods for optical fiber network deployment and maintenance |
US7965186B2 (en) | 2007-03-09 | 2011-06-21 | Corning Cable Systems, Llc | Passive RFID elements having visual indicators |
-
2006
- 2006-12-14 US US11/638,812 patent/US7760094B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2007
- 2007-12-07 EP EP07853287.6A patent/EP2098095B1/en not_active Not-in-force
- 2007-12-07 WO PCT/US2007/025136 patent/WO2008076235A1/en active Application Filing
- 2007-12-07 CA CA002672576A patent/CA2672576A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2007-12-07 JP JP2009541316A patent/JP2010525615A/en active Pending
- 2007-12-07 CN CN2007800501802A patent/CN101632314B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2007-12-07 MX MX2009006455A patent/MX2009006455A/en active IP Right Grant
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US7760094B1 (en) | 2010-07-20 |
JP2010525615A (en) | 2010-07-22 |
US20100178058A1 (en) | 2010-07-15 |
MX2009006455A (en) | 2009-08-20 |
WO2008076235A1 (en) | 2008-06-26 |
CN101632314B (en) | 2013-06-19 |
CN101632314A (en) | 2010-01-20 |
EP2098095B1 (en) | 2014-03-19 |
EP2098095A1 (en) | 2009-09-09 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7760094B1 (en) | RFID systems and methods for optical fiber network deployment and maintenance | |
US8264355B2 (en) | RFID systems and methods for optical fiber network deployment and maintenance | |
US6784802B1 (en) | Real time monitoring of cable patch panel | |
US8115631B2 (en) | Determining endpoint connectivity of cabling interconnects | |
US8873969B2 (en) | Method for ONU registration in a passive optical network | |
CN202383720U (en) | Power distribution device | |
US20030061393A1 (en) | System and method for improving the management of information in networks by disposing machine accessible information tags along the interconnection means | |
US8210755B2 (en) | Identifiable fiber optics | |
US20070176745A1 (en) | Telecom Equipment With RFIDs | |
US7696879B2 (en) | Ascertaining physical routing of cabling interconnects | |
CN102307107A (en) | Intelligent management system of ODN (optical distribution network) based on RFID (radio frequency identification) | |
CN102165735A (en) | RFID-based systems and methods for collecting telecommunications network information | |
US11295135B2 (en) | Asset tracking of communication equipment via mixed reality based labeling | |
US20130181816A1 (en) | Mechanism and method for rfid cable path labeling, identification, and inventory | |
CN102540355A (en) | Connection management device and method of optical fiber connector | |
EP2887566A1 (en) | An optical distribution system, a splicing handheld device, a kit for an optical distribution system and a method for the construction and managing of an optical distribution system | |
US11374808B2 (en) | Automated logging of patching operations via mixed reality based labeling | |
CN113396560B (en) | Method and device for establishing optical cable connection | |
CN106295732A (en) | The maintaining method of a kind of optical cable and system | |
CN105281837A (en) | Intelligent pairing method for optical fiber pigtails based on RFID (radio frequency identification) | |
WO2021242561A1 (en) | Automated logging of patching operations via mixed reality based labeling | |
CN105656648A (en) | ODN resource organizing method and system | |
Wagner et al. | Automatic discovery of fiber optic structured cabling component locations and connectivity | |
Waki et al. | Novel optical-fiber network management system in central office using RFID and LED navigation technologies | |
WO2023232300A1 (en) | Portable device for checking the coverage of a fiber optic link |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20121207 |