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IETF RFC 6163
Framework for GMPLS and Path Computation Element (PCE) Control of Wavelength Switched Optical Networks (WSONs)
Last modified on Monday, April 25th, 2011
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Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) Y. Lee, Ed.
Request for Comments: 6163 Huawei
Category: Informational G. Bernstein, Ed.
ISSN: 2070-1721 Grotto Networking
W. Imajuku
NTT
April 2011
Framework for GMPLS and Path Computation Element (PCE) Control
of Wavelength Switched Optical Networks (WSONs)
 Abstract
This document provides a framework for applying Generalized Multi-
Protocol Label Switching (GMPLS) and the Path Computation Element
(PCE) architecture to the control of Wavelength Switched Optical
Networks (WSONs). In particular, it examines Routing and Wavelength
Assignment (RWA) of optical paths.
This document focuses on topological elements and path selection
constraints that are common across different WSON environments; as
such, it does not address optical impairments in any depth.
Status of This Memo
This document is not an Internet Standards Track specification; it is
published for informational purposes.
This document is a product of the Internet Engineering Task Force
(IETF). It represents the consensus of the IETF community. It has
received public review and has been approved for publication by the
Internet Engineering Steering Group (IESG). Not all documents
approved by the IESG are a candidate for any level of Internet
Standard; see Section 2 of RFC 5741.
Information about the current status of this document, any errata,
and how to provide feedback on it may be obtained at
http://www.rfc-editor.org/info/RFC 6163.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 1 
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
Copyright Notice
Copyright (c) 2011 IETF Trust and the persons identified as the
document authors. All rights reserved.
This document is subject to BCP 78 and the IETF Trust's Legal
Provisions Relating to IETF Documents
(http://trustee.ietf.org/license-info) in effect on the date of
publication of this document. Please review these documents
carefully, as they describe your rights and restrictions with respect
to this document. Code Components extracted from this document must
include Simplified BSD License text as described in Section 4.e of
the Trust Legal Provisions and are provided without warranty as
described in the Simplified BSD License.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction ....................................................4
2. Terminology .....................................................5
3. Wavelength Switched Optical Networks ............................6
3.1. WDM and CWDM Links .........................................6
3.2. Optical Transmitters and Receivers .........................8
3.3. Optical Signals in WSONs ...................................9
3.3.1. Optical Tributary Signals ..........................10
3.3.2. WSON Signal Characteristics ........................10
3.4. ROADMs, OXCs, Splitters, Combiners, and FOADMs ............11
3.4.1. Reconfigurable Optical Add/Drop
Multiplexers and OXCs ..............................11
3.4.2. Splitters ..........................................14
3.4.3. Combiners ..........................................15
3.4.4. Fixed Optical Add/Drop Multiplexers ................15
3.5. Electro-Optical Systems ...................................16
3.5.1. Regenerators .......................................16
3.5.2. OEO Switches .......................................19
3.6. Wavelength Converters .....................................19
3.6.1. Wavelength Converter Pool Modeling .................21
3.7. Characterizing Electro-Optical Network Elements ...........24
3.7.1. Input Constraints ..................................25
3.7.2. Output Constraints .................................25
3.7.3. Processing Capabilities ............................26
4. Routing and Wavelength Assignment and the Control Plane ........26
4.1. Architectural Approaches to RWA ...........................27
4.1.1. Combined RWA (R&WA) ................................27
4.1.2. Separated R and WA (R+WA) ..........................28
4.1.3. Routing and Distributed WA (R+DWA) .................28
4.2. Conveying Information Needed by RWA .......................29
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RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
5. Modeling Examples and Control Plane Use Cases ..................30
5.1. Network Modeling for GMPLS/PCE Control ....................30
5.1.1. Describing the WSON Nodes ..........................31
5.1.2. Describing the Links ...............................34
5.2. RWA Path Computation and Establishment ....................34
5.3. Resource Optimization .....................................36
5.4. Support for Rerouting .....................................36
5.5. Electro-Optical Networking Scenarios ......................36
5.5.1. Fixed Regeneration Points ..........................37
5.5.2. Shared Regeneration Pools ..........................37
5.5.3. Reconfigurable Regenerators ........................37
5.5.4. Relation to Translucent Networks ...................38
6. GMPLS and PCE Implications .....................................38
6.1. Implications for GMPLS Signaling ..........................39
6.1.1. Identifying Wavelengths and Signals ................39
6.1.2. WSON Signals and Network Element Processing ........39
6.1.3. Combined RWA/Separate Routing WA support ...........40
6.1.4. Distributed Wavelength Assignment:
Unidirectional, No Converters ......................40
6.1.5. Distributed Wavelength Assignment:
Unidirectional, Limited Converters .................40
6.1.6. Distributed Wavelength Assignment:
Bidirectional, No Converters .......................40
6.2. Implications for GMPLS Routing ............................41
6.2.1. Electro-Optical Element Signal Compatibility .......41
6.2.2. Wavelength-Specific Availability Information .......42
6.2.3. WSON Routing Information Summary ...................43
6.3. Optical Path Computation and Implications for PCE .........44
6.3.1. Optical Path Constraints and Characteristics .......44
6.3.2. Electro-Optical Element Signal Compatibility .......45
6.3.3. Discovery of RWA-Capable PCEs ......................45
7. Security Considerations ........................................46
8. Acknowledgments ................................................46
9. References .....................................................46
9.1. Normative References ......................................46
9.2. Informative References ....................................47
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1. Introduction
Wavelength Switched Optical Networks (WSONs) are constructed from
subsystems that include Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) links,
tunable transmitters and receivers, Reconfigurable Optical Add/Drop
Multiplexers (ROADMs), wavelength converters, and electro-optical
network elements. A WSON is a WDM-based optical network in which
switching is performed selectively based on the center wavelength of
an optical signal.
WSONs can differ from other types of GMPLS networks in that many
types of WSON nodes are highly asymmetric with respect to their
switching capabilities, compatibility of signal types and network
elements may need to be considered, and label assignment can be non-
local. In order to provision an optical connection (an optical path)
through a WSON certain wavelength continuity and resource
availability constraints must be met to determine viable and optimal
paths through the WSON. The determination of paths is known as
Routing and Wavelength Assignment (RWA).
Generalized Multi-Protocol Label Switching (GMPLS) [RFC 3945] includes
an architecture and a set of control plane protocols that can be used
to operate data networks ranging from packet-switch-capable networks,
through those networks that use Time Division Multiplexing, to WDM
networks. The Path Computation Element (PCE) architecture [RFC 4655]
defines functional components that can be used to compute and suggest
appropriate paths in connection-oriented traffic-engineered networks.
This document provides a framework for applying the GMPLS
architecture and protocols [RFC 3945] and the PCE architecture
[RFC 4655] to the control and operation of WSONs. To aid in this
process, this document also provides an overview of the subsystems
and processes that comprise WSONs and describes RWA so that the
information requirements, both static and dynamic, can be identified
to explain how the information can be modeled for use by GMPLS and
PCE systems. This work will facilitate the development of protocol
solution models and protocol extensions within the GMPLS and PCE
protocol families.
Different WSONs such as access, metro, and long haul may apply
different techniques for dealing with optical impairments; hence,
this document does not address optical impairments in any depth.
Note that this document focuses on the generic properties of links,
switches, and path selection constraints that occur in many types of
WSONs. See [WSON-Imp] for more information on optical impairments
and GMPLS.
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2. Terminology
Add/Drop Multiplexer (ADM): An optical device used in WDM networks
and composed of one or more line side ports and typically many
tributary ports.
CWDM: Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing.
DWDM: Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing.
Degree: The degree of an optical device (e.g., ROADM) is given by a
count of its line side ports.
Drop and continue: A simple multicast feature of some ADMs where a
selected wavelength can be switched out of both a tributary (drop)
port and a line side port.
FOADM: Fixed Optical Add/Drop Multiplexer.
GMPLS: Generalized Multi-Protocol Label Switching.
Line side: In a WDM system, line side ports and links can typically
carry the full multiplex of wavelength signals, as compared to
tributary (add or drop) ports that typically carry a few (usually
one) wavelength signals.
OXC: Optical Cross-Connect. An optical switching element in which a
signal on any input port can reach any output port.
PCC: Path Computation Client. Any client application requesting a
path computation to be performed by the Path Computation Element.
PCE: Path Computation Element. An entity (component, application, or
network node) that is capable of computing a network path or route
based on a network graph and application of computational
constraints.
PCEP: PCE Communication Protocol. The communication protocol between
a Path Computation Client and Path Computation Element.
ROADM: Reconfigurable Optical Add/Drop Multiplexer. A wavelength-
selective switching element featuring input and output line side
ports as well as add/drop tributary ports.
RWA: Routing and Wavelength Assignment.
Transparent Network: A Wavelength Switched Optical Network that does
not contain regenerators or wavelength converters.
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Translucent Network: A Wavelength Switched Optical Network that is
predominantly transparent but may also contain limited numbers of
regenerators and/or wavelength converters.
Tributary: A link or port on a WDM system that can carry
significantly less than the full multiplex of wavelength signals
found on the line side links/ports. Typical tributary ports are the
add and drop ports on an ADM, and these support only a single
wavelength channel.
Wavelength Conversion/Converters: The process of converting an
information-bearing optical signal centered at a given wavelength to
one with "equivalent" content centered at a different wavelength.
Wavelength conversion can be implemented via an optical-electronic-
optical (OEO) process or via a strictly optical process.
WDM: Wavelength Division Multiplexing.
Wavelength Switched Optical Networks (WSONs): WDM-based optical
networks in which switching is performed selectively based on the
center wavelength of an optical signal.
3. Wavelength Switched Optical Networks
WSONs range in size from continent-spanning long-haul networks, to
metropolitan networks, to residential access networks. In all these
cases, the main concern is those properties that constrain the choice
of wavelengths that can be used, i.e., restrict the wavelength Label
Set, impact the path selection process, and limit the topological
connectivity. In addition, if electro-optical network elements are
used in the WSON, additional compatibility constraints may be imposed
by the network elements on various optical signal parameters. The
subsequent sections review and model some of the major subsystems of
a WSON with an emphasis on those aspects that are of relevance to the
control plane. In particular, WDM links, optical transmitters,
ROADMs, and wavelength converters are examined.
3.1. WDM and CWDM Links
WDM and CWDM links run over optical fibers, and optical fibers come
in a wide range of types that tend to be optimized for various
applications. Examples include access networks, metro, long haul,
and submarine links. International Telecommunication Union -
Telecommunication Standardization Sector (ITU-T) standards exist for
various types of fibers. Although fiber can be categorized into
Single-Mode Fibers (SMFs) and Multi-Mode Fibers (MMFs), the latter
are typically used for short-reach campus and premise applications.
SMFs are used for longer-reach applications and are therefore the
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primary concern of this document. The following SMF types are
typically encountered in optical networks:
ITU-T Standard | Common Name
------------------------------------------------------------
G.652 [G.652] | Standard SMF |
G.653 [G.653] | Dispersion shifted SMF |
G.654 [G.654] | Cut-off shifted SMF |
G.655 [G.655] | Non-zero dispersion shifted SMF |
G.656 [G.656] | Wideband non-zero dispersion shifted SMF |
------------------------------------------------------------
Typically, WDM links operate in one or more of the approximately
defined optical bands [G.Sup39]:
Band Range (nm) Common Name Raw Bandwidth (THz)
O-band 1260-1360 Original 17.5
E-band 1360-1460 Extended 15.1
S-band 1460-1530 Short 9.4
C-band 1530-1565 Conventional 4.4
L-band 1565-1625 Long 7.1
U-band 1625-1675 Ultra-long 5.5
Not all of a band may be usable; for example, in many fibers that
support E-band, there is significant attenuation due to a water
absorption peak at 1383 nm. Hence, a discontinuous acceptable
wavelength range for a particular link may be needed and is modeled.
Also, some systems will utilize more than one band. This is
particularly true for CWDM systems.
Current technology subdivides the bandwidth capacity of fibers into
distinct channels based on either wavelength or frequency. There are
two standards covering wavelengths and channel spacing. ITU-T
Recommendation G.694.1, "Spectral grids for WDM applications: DWDM
frequency grid" [G.694.1], describes a DWDM grid defined in terms of
frequency grids of 12.5 GHz, 25 GHz, 50 GHz, 100 GHz, and other
multiples of 100 GHz around a 193.1 THz center frequency. At the
narrowest channel spacing, this provides less than 4800 channels
across the O through U bands. ITU-T Recommendation G.694.2,
"Spectral grids for WDM applications: CWDM wavelength grid"
[G.694.2], describes a CWDM grid defined in terms of wavelength
increments of 20 nm running from 1271 nm to 1611 nm for 18 or so
channels. The number of channels is significantly smaller than the
32-bit GMPLS Label space defined for GMPLS (see [RFC 3471]). A label
representation for these ITU-T grids is given in [RFC 6205] and
provides a common label format to be used in signaling optical paths.
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Further, these ITU-T grid-based labels can also be used to describe
WDM links, ROADM ports, and wavelength converters for the purposes of
path selection.
Many WDM links are designed to take advantage of particular fiber
characteristics or to try to avoid undesirable properties. For
example, dispersion-shifted SMF [G.653] was originally designed for
good long-distance performance in single-channel systems; however,
putting WDM over this type of fiber requires significant system
engineering and a fairly limited range of wavelengths. Hence, the
following information is needed as parameters to perform basic,
impairment-unaware modeling of a WDM link:
o Wavelength range(s): Given a mapping between labels and the ITU-T
grids, each range could be expressed in terms of a tuple,
(lambda1, lambda2) or (freq1, freq2), where the lambdas or
frequencies can be represented by 32-bit integers.
o Channel spacing: Currently, there are five channel spacings used
in DWDM systems and a single channel spacing defined for CWDM
systems.
For a particular link, this information is relatively static, as
changes to these properties generally require hardware upgrades.
Such information may be used locally during wavelength assignment via
signaling, similar to label restrictions in MPLS, or used by a PCE in
providing combined RWA.
3.2. Optical Transmitters and Receivers
WDM optical systems make use of optical transmitters and receivers
utilizing different wavelengths (frequencies). Some transmitters are
manufactured for a specific wavelength of operation; that is, the
manufactured frequency cannot be changed. First introduced to reduce
inventory costs, tunable optical transmitters and receivers are
deployed in some systems and allow flexibility in the wavelength used
for optical transmission/reception. Such tunable optics aid in path
selection.
Fundamental modeling parameters for optical transmitters and
receivers from the control plane perspective are:
o Tunable: Do the transmitters and receivers operate at variable or
fixed wavelength?
o Tuning range: This is the frequency or wavelength range over which
the optics can be tuned. With the fixed mapping of labels to
lambdas as proposed in [RFC 6205], this can be expressed as a
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RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
tuple, (lambda1, lambda2) or (freq1, freq2), where lambda1 and
lambda2 or freq1 and freq2 are the labels representing the lower
and upper bounds in wavelength.
o Tuning time: Tuning times highly depend on the technology used.
Thermal-drift-based tuning may take seconds to stabilize, whilst
electronic tuning might provide sub-ms tuning times. Depending on
the application, this might be critical. For example, thermal
drift might not be usable for fast protection applications.
o Spectral characteristics and stability: The spectral shape of a
laser's emissions and its frequency stability put limits on
various properties of the overall WDM system. One constraint that
is relatively easy to characterize is the closest channel spacing
with which the transmitter can be used.
Note that ITU-T recommendations specify many aspects of an optical
transmitter. Many of these parameters, such as spectral
characteristics and stability, are used in the design of WDM
subsystems consisting of transmitters, WDM links, and receivers.
However, they do not furnish additional information that will
influence the Label Switched Path (LSP) provisioning in a properly
designed system.
Also, note that optical components can degrade and fail over time.
This presents the possibility of the failure of an LSP (optical path)
without either a node or link failure. Hence, additional mechanisms
may be necessary to detect and differentiate this failure from the
others; for example, one does not want to initiate mesh restoration
if the source transmitter has failed since the optical transmitter
will still be failed on the alternate optical path.
3.3. Optical Signals in WSONs
The fundamental unit of switching in WSONs is intuitively that of a
"wavelength". The transmitters and receivers in these networks will
deal with one wavelength at a time, while the switching systems
themselves can deal with multiple wavelengths at a time. Hence,
multi-channel DWDM networks with single-channel interfaces are the
prime focus of this document as opposed to multi-channel interfaces.
Interfaces of this type are defined in ITU-T Recommendations
[G.698.1] and [G.698.2]. Key non-impairment-related parameters
defined in [G.698.1] and [G.698.2] are:
(a) Minimum channel spacing (GHz)
(b) Minimum and maximum central frequency
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(c) Bitrate/Line coding (modulation) of optical tributary signals
For the purposes of modeling the WSON in the control plane, (a) and
(b) are considered properties of the link and restrictions on the
GMPLS Labels while (c) is a property of the "signal".
3.3.1. Optical Tributary Signals
The optical interface specifications [G.698.1], [G.698.2], and
[G.959.1] all use the concept of an optical tributary signal, which
is defined as "a single channel signal that is placed within an
optical channel for transport across the optical network". Note the
use of the qualifier "tributary" to indicate that this is a single-
channel entity and not a multi-channel optical signal.
There are currently a number of different types of optical tributary
signals, which are known as "optical tributary signal classes".
These are currently characterized by a modulation format and bitrate
range [G.959.1]:
(a) Optical tributary signal class Non-Return-to-Zero (NRZ) 1.25G
(b) Optical tributary signal class NRZ 2.5G
(c) Optical tributary signal class NRZ 10G
(d) Optical tributary signal class NRZ 40G
(e) Optical tributary signal class Return-to-Zero (RZ) 40G
Note that, with advances in technology, more optical tributary signal
classes may be added and that this is currently an active area for
development and standardization. In particular, at the 40G rate,
there are a number of non-standardized advanced modulation formats
that have seen significant deployment, including Differential Phase
Shift Keying (DPSK) and Phase Shaped Binary Transmission (PSBT).
According to [G.698.2], it is important to fully specify the bitrate
of the optical tributary signal. Hence, modulation format (optical
tributary signal class) and bitrate are key parameters in
characterizing the optical tributary signal.
3.3.2. WSON Signal Characteristics
The optical tributary signal referenced in ITU-T Recommendations
[G.698.1] and [G.698.2] is referred to as the "signal" in this
document. This corresponds to the "lambda" LSP in GMPLS. For signal
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RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
compatibility purposes with electro-optical network elements, the
following signal characteristics are considered:
1. Optical tributary signal class (modulation format)
2. Forward Error Correction (FEC): whether forward error correction
is used in the digital stream and what type of error correcting
code is used
3. Center frequency (wavelength)
4. Bitrate
5. General Protocol Identifier (G-PID) for the information format
The first three items on this list can change as a WSON signal
traverses the optical network with elements that include
regenerators, OEO switches, or wavelength converters.
Bitrate and G-PID would not change since they describe the encoded
bitstream. A set of G-PID values is already defined for lambda
switching in [RFC 3471] and [RFC 4328].
Note that a number of non-standard or proprietary modulation formats
and FEC codes are commonly used in WSONs. For some digital
bitstreams, the presence of FEC can be detected; for example, in
[G.707], this is indicated in the signal itself via the FEC Status
Indication (FSI) byte while in [G.709], this can be inferred from
whether or not the FEC field of the Optical Channel Transport Unit-k
(OTUk) is all zeros.
3.4. ROADMs, OXCs, Splitters, Combiners, and FOADMs
Definitions of various optical devices such as ROADMs, Optical Cross-
Connects (OXCs), splitters, combiners, and Fixed Optical Add/Drop
Multiplexers (FOADMs) and their parameters can be found in [G.671].
Only a subset of these relevant to the control plane and their non-
impairment-related properties are considered in the following
sections.
3.4.1. Reconfigurable Optical Add/Drop Multiplexers and OXCs
ROADMs are available in different forms and technologies. This is a
key technology that allows wavelength-based optical switching. A
classic degree-2 ROADM is shown in Figure 1.
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Line side input +---------------------+ Line side output
--->| |--->
| |
| ROADM |
| |
| |
+---------------------+
| | | | o o o o
| | | | | | | |
O O O O | | | |
Tributary Side: Drop (output) Add (input)
Figure 1. Degree-2 Unidirectional ROADM
The key feature across all ROADM types is their highly asymmetric
switching capability. In the ROADM of Figure 1, signals introduced
via the add ports can only be sent on the line side output port and
not on any of the drop ports. The term "degree" is used to refer to
the number of line side ports (input and output) of a ROADM and does
not include the number of "add" or "drop" ports. The add and drop
ports are sometimes also called tributary ports. As the degree of
the ROADM increases beyond two, it can have properties of both a
switch (OXC) and a multiplexer; hence, it is necessary to know the
switched connectivity offered by such a network element to
effectively utilize it. A straightforward way to represent this is
via a "switched connectivity" matrix A where Amn = 0 or 1, depending
upon whether a wavelength on input port m can be connected to output
port n [Imajuku]. For the ROADM shown in Figure 1, the switched
connectivity matrix can be expressed as:
Input Output Port
Port #1 #2 #3 #4 #5
--------------
#1: 1 1 1 1 1
#2 1 0 0 0 0
A = #3 1 0 0 0 0
#4 1 0 0 0 0
#5 1 0 0 0 0
where input ports 2-5 are add ports, output ports 2-5 are drop ports,
and input port #1 and output port #1 are the line side (WDM) ports.
For ROADMs, this matrix will be very sparse, and for OXCs, the matrix
will be very dense. Compact encodings and examples, including high-
degree ROADMs/OXCs, are given in [Gen-Encode]. A degree-4 ROADM is
shown in Figure 2.
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RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
+-----------------------+
Line side-1 --->| |---> Line side-2
Input (I1) | | Output (E2)
Line side-1 <---| |<--- Line side-2
Output (E1) | | Input (I2)
| ROADM |
Line side-3 --->| |---> Line side-4
Input (I3) | | Output (E4)
Line side-3 <---| |<--- Line side-4
Output (E3) | | Input (I4)
| |
+-----------------------+
| O | O | O | O
| | | | | | | |
O | O | O | O |
Tributary Side: E5 I5 E6 I6 E7 I7 E8 I8
Figure 2. Degree-4 Bidirectional ROADM
Note that this is a 4-degree example with one (potentially multi-
channel) add/drop per line side port.
Note also that the connectivity constraints for typical ROADM designs
are "bidirectional"; that is, if input port X can be connected to
output port Y, typically input port Y can be connected to output port
X, assuming the numbering is done in such a way that input X and
output X correspond to the same line side direction or the same
add/drop port. This makes the connectivity matrix symmetrical as
shown below.
Input Output Port
Port E1 E2 E3 E4 E5 E6 E7 E8
-----------------------
I1 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 0
I2 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 0
A = I3 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0
I4 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1
I5 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0
I6 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
I7 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0
I8 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0
where I5/E5 are add/drop ports to/from line side-3, I6/E6 are
add/drop ports to/from line side-1, I7/E7 are add/drop ports to/from
line side-2, and I8/E8 are add/drop ports to/from line side-4. Note
that diagonal elements are zero since loopback is not supported in
the example. If ports support loopback, diagonal elements would be
set to one.
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Additional constraints may also apply to the various ports in a
ROADM/OXC. The following restrictions and terms may be used:
o Colored port: an input or, more typically, an output (drop) port
restricted to a single channel of fixed wavelength
o Colorless port: an input or, more typically, an output (drop) port
restricted to a single channel of arbitrary wavelength
In general, a port on a ROADM could have any of the following
wavelength restrictions:
o Multiple wavelengths, full range port
o Single wavelength, full range port
o Single wavelength, fixed lambda port
o Multiple wavelengths, reduced range port (for example wave band
switching)
To model these restrictions, it is necessary to have two pieces of
information for each port: (a) the number of wavelengths and (b) the
wavelength range and spacing. Note that this information is
relatively static. More complicated wavelength constraints are
modeled in [WSON-Info].
3.4.2. Splitters
An optical splitter consists of a single input port and two or more
output ports. The input optical signaled is essentially copied (with
power loss) to all output ports.
Using the modeling notions of Section 3.4.1, the input and output
ports of a splitter would have the same wavelength restrictions. In
addition, a splitter is modeled by a connectivity matrix Amn as
follows:
Input Output Port
Port #1 #2 #3 ... #N
-----------------
A = #1 1 1 1 ... 1
The difference from a simple ROADM is that this is not a switched
connectivity matrix but the fixed connectivity matrix of the device.
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3.4.3. Combiners
An optical combiner is a device that combines the optical wavelengths
carried by multiple input ports into a single multi-wavelength output
port. The various ports may have different wavelength restrictions.
It is generally the responsibility of those using the combiner to
ensure that wavelength collision does not occur on the output port.
The fixed connectivity matrix Amn for a combiner would look like:
Input Output Port
Port #1
---
#1: 1
#2 1
A = #3 1
... 1
#N 1
3.4.4. Fixed Optical Add/Drop Multiplexers
A Fixed Optical Add/Drop Multiplexer can alter the course of an input
wavelength in a preset way. In particular, a given wavelength (or
waveband) from a line side input port would be dropped to a fixed
"tributary" output port. Depending on the device's construction,
that same wavelength may or may not also be sent out the line side
output port. This is commonly referred to as a "drop and continue"
operation. Tributary input ports ("add" ports) whose signals are
combined with each other and other line side signals may also exist.
In general, to represent the routing properties of an FOADM, it is
necessary to have both a fixed connectivity matrix Amn, as previously
discussed, and the precise wavelength restrictions for all input and
output ports. From the wavelength restrictions on the tributary
output ports, the wavelengths that have been selected can be derived.
From the wavelength restrictions on the tributary input ports, it can
be seen which wavelengths have been added to the line side output
port. Finally, from the added wavelength information and the line
side output wavelength restrictions, it can be inferred which
wavelengths have been continued.
To summarize, the modeling methodology introduced in Section 3.4.1,
which consists of a connectivity matrix and port wavelength
restrictions, can be used to describe a large set of fixed optical
devices such as combiners, splitters, and FOADMs. Hybrid devices
consisting of both switched and fixed parts are modeled in
[WSON-Info].
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 15
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
3.5. Electro-Optical Systems
This section describes how Electro-Optical Systems (e.g., OEO
switches, wavelength converters, and regenerators) interact with the
WSON signal characteristics listed in Section 3.3.2. OEO switches,
wavelength converters, and regenerators all share a similar property:
they can be more or less "transparent" to an "optical signal"
depending on their functionality and/or implementation. Regenerators
have been fairly well characterized in this regard and hence their
properties can be described first.
3.5.1. Regenerators
The various approaches to regeneration are discussed in ITU-T
[G.872], Annex A. They map a number of functions into the so-called
1R, 2R, and 3R categories of regenerators as summarized in Table 1
below:
Table 1. Regenerator Functionality Mapped to General Regenerator
Classes from [G.872]
--------------------------------------------------------------------
1R | Equal amplification of all frequencies within the amplification
| bandwidth. There is no restriction upon information formats.
+----------------------------------------------------------------
| Amplification with different gain for frequencies within the
| amplification bandwidth. This could be applied to both single-
| channel and multi-channel systems.
+----------------------------------------------------------------
| Dispersion compensation (phase distortion). This analogue
| process can be applied in either single-channel or multi-
| channel systems.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
2R | Any or all 1R functions. Noise suppression.
+----------------------------------------------------------------
| Digital reshaping (Schmitt Trigger function) with no clock
| recovery. This is applicable to individual channels and can be
| used for different bitrates but is not transparent to line
| coding (modulation).
--------------------------------------------------------------------
3R | Any or all 1R and 2R functions. Complete regeneration of the
| pulse shape including clock recovery and retiming within
| required jitter limits.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
This table shows that 1R regenerators are generally independent of
signal modulation format (also known as line coding) but may work
over a limited range of wavelengths/frequencies. 2R regenerators are
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 16
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
generally applicable to a single digital stream and are dependent
upon modulation format (line coding) and, to a lesser extent, are
limited to a range of bitrates (but not a specific bitrate).
Finally, 3R regenerators apply to a single channel, are dependent
upon the modulation format, and are generally sensitive to the
bitrate of digital signal, i.e., either are designed to only handle a
specific bitrate or need to be programmed to accept and regenerate a
specific bitrate. In all these types of regenerators, the digital
bitstream contained within the optical or electrical signal is not
modified.
It is common for regenerators to modify the digital bitstream for
performance monitoring and fault management purposes. Synchronous
Optical Networking (SONET), Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH), and
Interfaces for the Optical Transport Network [G.709] all have digital
signal "envelopes" designed to be used between "regenerators" (in
this case, 3R regenerators). In SONET, this is known as the
"section" signal; in SDH, this is known as the "regenerator section"
signal; and, in G.709, this is known as an OTUk. These signals
reserve a portion of their frame structure (known as overhead) for
use by regenerators. The nature of this overhead is summarized in
Table 2 below.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 17
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
Table 2. SONET, SDH, and G.709 Regenerator-Related Overhead
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+
|Function | SONET/SDH | G.709 OTUk |
| | Regenerator | |
| | Section | |
|------------------+----------------------+-----------------------|
|Signal | J0 (section | Trail Trace |
|Identifier | trace) | Identifier (TTI) |
|------------------+----------------------+-----------------------|
|Performance | BIP-8 (B1) | BIP-8 (within SM) |
|Monitoring | | |
|------------------+----------------------+-----------------------|
|Management | D1-D3 bytes | GCC0 (general |
|Communications | | communications |
| | | channel) |
|------------------+----------------------+-----------------------|
|Fault Management | A1, A2 framing | FAS (frame alignment |
| | bytes | signal), BDI (backward|
| | | defect indication), |
| | | BEI (backward error |
| | | indication) |
+------------------+----------------------+-----------------------|
|Forward Error | P1,Q1 bytes | OTUk FEC |
|Correction (FEC) | | |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+
Table 2 shows that frame alignment, signal identification, and FEC
are supported. By omission, Table 2 also shows that no switching or
multiplexing occurs at this layer. This is a significant
simplification for the control plane since control plane standards
require a multi-layer approach when there are multiple switching
layers but do not require the "layering" to provide the management
functions shown in Table 2. That is, many existing technologies
covered by GMPLS contain extra management-related layers that are
essentially ignored by the control plane (though not by the
management plane). Hence, the approach here is to include
regenerators and other devices at the WSON layer unless they provide
higher layer switching; then, a multi-layer or multi-region approach
[RFC 5212] is called for. However, this can result in regenerators
having a dependence on the client signal type.
Hence, depending upon the regenerator technology, the constraints
listed in Table 3 may be imposed by a regenerator device:
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 18
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
Table 3. Regenerator Compatibility Constraints
+--------------------------------------------------------+
| Constraints | 1R | 2R | 3R |
+--------------------------------------------------------+
| Limited Wavelength Range | x | x | x |
+--------------------------------------------------------+
| Modulation Type Restriction | | x | x |
+--------------------------------------------------------+
| Bitrate Range Restriction | | x | x |
+--------------------------------------------------------+
| Exact Bitrate Restriction | | | x |
+--------------------------------------------------------+
| Client Signal Dependence | | | x |
+--------------------------------------------------------+
Note that the limited wavelength range constraint can be modeled for
GMPLS signaling with the Label Set defined in [RFC 3471] and that the
modulation type restriction constraint includes FEC.
3.5.2. OEO Switches
A common place where OEO processing may take place is within WSON
switches that utilize (or contain) regenerators. This may be to
convert the signal to an electronic form for switching then reconvert
to an optical signal prior to output from the switch. Another common
technique is to add regenerators to restore signal quality either
before or after optical processing (switching). In the former case,
the regeneration is applied to adapt the signal to the switch fabric
regardless of whether or not it is needed from a signal-quality
perspective.
In either case, these optical switches have essentially the same
compatibility constraints as those described for regenerators in
Table 3.
3.6. Wavelength Converters
Wavelength converters take an input optical signal at one wavelength
and emit an equivalent content optical signal at another wavelength
on output. There are multiple approaches to building wavelength
converters. One approach is based on OEO conversion with fixed or
tunable optics on output. This approach can be dependent upon the
signal rate and format; that is, this is basically an electrical
regenerator combined with a laser/receiver. Hence, this type of
wavelength converter has signal-processing restrictions that are
essentially the same as those described for regenerators in Table 3
of Section 3.5.1.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 19
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
Another approach performs the wavelength conversion optically via
non-linear optical effects, similar in spirit to the familiar
frequency mixing used in radio frequency systems but significantly
harder to implement. Such processes/effects may place limits on the
range of achievable conversion. These may depend on the wavelength
of the input signal and the properties of the converter as opposed to
only the properties of the converter in the OEO case. Different WSON
system designs may choose to utilize this component to varying
degrees or not at all.
Current or envisioned contexts for wavelength converters are:
1. Wavelength conversion associated with OEO switches and fixed or
tunable optics. In this case, there are typically multiple
converters available since each use of an OEO switch can be
thought of as a potential wavelength converter.
2. Wavelength conversion associated with ROADMs/OXCs. In this case,
there may be a limited pool of wavelength converters available.
Conversion could be either all optical or via an OEO method.
3. Wavelength conversion associated with fixed devices such as
FOADMs. In this case, there may be a limited amount of
conversion. Also, the conversion may be used as part of optical
path routing.
Based on the above considerations, wavelength converters are modeled
as follows:
1. Wavelength converters can always be modeled as associated with
network elements. This includes fixed wavelength routing
elements.
2. A network element may have full wavelength conversion capability
(i.e., any input port and wavelength) or a limited number of
wavelengths and ports. On a box with a limited number of
converters, there also may exist restrictions on which ports can
reach the converters. Hence, regardless of where the converters
actually are, they can be associated with input ports.
3. Wavelength converters have range restrictions that are either
independent or dependent upon the input wavelength.
In WSONs where wavelength converters are sparse, an optical path may
appear to loop or "backtrack" upon itself in order to reach a
wavelength converter prior to continuing on to its destination. The
lambda used on input to the wavelength converter would be different
from the lambda coming back from the wavelength converter.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 20
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
A model for an individual OEO wavelength converter would consist of:
o Input lambda or frequency range
o Output lambda or frequency range
3.6.1. Wavelength Converter Pool Modeling
A WSON node may include multiple wavelength converters. These are
usually arranged into some type of pool to promote resource sharing.
There are a number of different approaches used in the design of
switches with converter pools. However, from the point of view of
path computation, it is necessary to know the following:
1. The nodes that support wavelength conversion
2. The accessibility and availability of a wavelength converter to
convert from a given input wavelength on a particular input port
to a desired output wavelength on a particular output port
3. Limitations on the types of signals that can be converted and the
conversions that can be performed
To model point 2 above, a technique similar to that used to model
ROADMs and optical switches can be used, i.e., matrices to indicate
possible connectivity along with wavelength constraints for
links/ports. Since wavelength converters are considered a scarce
resource, it is desirable to include, at a minimum, the usage state
of individual wavelength converters in the pool.
A three stage model is used as shown schematically in Figure 3. This
model represents N input ports (fibers), P wavelength converters, and
M output ports (fibers). Since not all input ports can necessarily
reach the converter pool, the model starts with a wavelength pool
input matrix WI(i,p) = {0,1}, where input port i can potentially
reach wavelength converter p.
Since not all wavelengths can necessarily reach all the converters or
the converters may have a limited input wavelength range, there is a
set of input port constraints for each wavelength converter.
Currently, it is assumed that a wavelength converter can only take a
single wavelength on input. Each wavelength converter input port
constraint can be modeled via a wavelength set mechanism.
Next, there is a state vector WC(j) = {0,1} dependent upon whether
wavelength converter j in the pool is in use. This is the only state
kept in the converter pool model. This state is not necessary for
modeling "fixed" transponder system, i.e., systems where there is no
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 21
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
sharing. In addition, this state information may be encoded in a
much more compact form depending on the overall connectivity
structure [Gen-Encode].
After that, a set of wavelength converter output wavelength
constraints is used. These constraints indicate what wavelengths a
particular wavelength converter can generate or are restricted to
generating due to internal switch structure.
Finally, a wavelength pool output matrix WE(p,k) = {0,1} indicates
whether the output from wavelength converter p can reach output port
k. Examples of this method being used to model wavelength converter
pools for several switch architectures are given in [Gen-Encode].
I1 +-------------+ +-------------+ E1
----->| | +--------+ | |----->
I2 | +------+ WC #1 +-------+ | E2
----->| | +--------+ | |----->
| Wavelength | | Wavelength |
| Converter | +--------+ | Converter |
| Pool +------+ WC #2 +-------+ Pool |
| | +--------+ | |
| Input | | Output |
| Connection | . | Connection |
| Matrix | . | Matrix |
| | . | |
| | | |
IN | | +--------+ | | EM
----->| +------+ WC #P +-------+ |----->
| | +--------+ | |
+-------------+ ^ ^ +-------------+
| |
| |
| |
| |
Input wavelength Output wavelength
constraints for constraints for
each converter each converter
Figure 3. Schematic Diagram of Wavelength Converter Pool Model
Figure 4 shows a simple optical switch in a four-wavelength DWDM
system sharing wavelength converters in a general shared "per-node"
fashion.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 22
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
+-----------+ ___________ +------+
| |--------------------------->| |
| |--------------------------->| C |
/| | |--------------------------->| o | E1
I1 /D+--->| |--------------------------->| m |
+ e+--->| | | b |====>
====>| M| | Optical | +-----------+ +----+ | i |
+ u+--->| Switch | | WC Pool | |O S|-->| n |
\x+--->| | | +-----+ | |p w|-->| e |
\| | +----+->|WC #1|--+->|t i| | r |
| | | +-----+ | |i t| +------+
| | | | |c c| +------+
/| | | | +-----+ | |a h|-->| |
I2 /D+--->| +----+->|WC #2|--+->|l |-->| C | E2
+ e+--->| | | +-----+ | | | | o |
====>| M| | | +-----------+ +----+ | m |====>
+ u+--->| | | b |
\x+--->| |--------------------------->| i |
\| | |--------------------------->| n |
| |--------------------------->| e |
|___________|--------------------------->| r |
+-----------+ +------+
Figure 4. An Optical Switch Featuring a Shared Per-Node Wavelength
Converter Pool Architecture
In this case, the input and output pool matrices are simply:
+-----+ +-----+
| 1 1 | | 1 1 |
WI =| |, WE =| |
| 1 1 | | 1 1 |
+-----+ +-----+
Figure 5 shows a different wavelength pool architecture known as
"shared per fiber". In this case, the input and output pool matrices
are simply:
+-----+ +-----+
| 1 1 | | 1 0 |
WI =| |, WE =| |
| 1 1 | | 0 1 |
+-----+ +-----+
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 23
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
+-----------+ +------+
| |--------------------------->| |
| |--------------------------->| C |
/| | |--------------------------->| o | E1
I1 /D+--->| |--------------------------->| m |
+ e+--->| | | b |====>
====>| M| | Optical | +-----------+ | i |
+ u+--->| Switch | | WC Pool | | n |
\x+--->| | | +-----+ | | e |
\| | +----+->|WC #1|--+---------->| r |
| | | +-----+ | +------+
| | | | +------+
/| | | | +-----+ | | |
I2 /D+--->| +----+->|WC #2|--+---------->| C | E2
+ e+--->| | | +-----+ | | o |
====>| M| | | +-----------+ | m |====>
+ u+--->| | | b |
\x+--->| |--------------------------->| i |
\| | |--------------------------->| n |
| |--------------------------->| e |
|___________|--------------------------->| r |
+-----------+ +------+
Figure 5. An Optical Switch Featuring a Shared Per-Fiber Wavelength
Converter Pool Architecture
3.7. Characterizing Electro-Optical Network Elements
In this section, electro-optical WSON network elements are
characterized by the three key functional components: input
constraints, output constraints, and processing capabilities.
WSON Network Element
+-----------------------+
WSON Signal | | | | WSON Signal
| | | |
---------------> | | | | ----------------->
| | | |
+-----------------------+
<-----> <-------> <----->
Input Processing Output
Figure 6. WSON Network Element
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 24
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
3.7.1. Input Constraints
Sections 3.5 and 3.6 discuss the basic properties of regenerators,
OEO switches, and wavelength converters. From these, the following
possible types of input constraints and properties are derived:
1. Acceptable modulation formats
2. Client signal (G-PID) restrictions
3. Bitrate restrictions
4. FEC coding restrictions
5. Configurability: (a) none, (b) self-configuring, (c) required
These constraints are represented via simple lists. Note that the
device may need to be "provisioned" via signaling or some other means
to accept signals with some attributes versus others. In other
cases, the devices may be relatively transparent to some attributes,
e.g., a 2R regenerator to bitrate. Finally, some devices may be able
to auto-detect some attributes and configure themselves, e.g., a 3R
regenerator with bitrate detection mechanisms and flexible phase
locking circuitry. To account for these different cases, item 5 has
been added, which describes the device's configurability.
Note that such input constraints also apply to the termination of the
WSON signal.
3.7.2. Output Constraints
None of the network elements considered here modifies either the
bitrate or the basic type of the client signal. However, they may
modify the modulation format or the FEC code. Typically, the
following types of output constraints are seen:
1. Output modulation is the same as input modulation (default)
2. A limited set of output modulations is available
3. Output FEC is the same as input FEC code (default)
4. A limited set of output FEC codes is available
Note that in cases 2 and 4 above, where there is more than one choice
in the output modulation or FEC code, the network element will need
to be configured on a per-LSP basis as to which choice to use.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 25
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
3.7.3. Processing Capabilities
A general WSON network element (NE) can perform a number of signal
processing functions including:
(A) Regeneration (possibly different types)
(B) Fault and performance monitoring
(C) Wavelength conversion
(D) Switching
An NE may or may not have the ability to perform regeneration (of one
of the types previously discussed). In addition, some nodes may have
limited regeneration capability, i.e., a shared pool, which may be
applied to selected signals traversing the NE. Hence, to describe
the regeneration capability of a link or node, it is necessary to
have, at a minimum:
1. Regeneration capability: (a) fixed, (b) selective, (c) none
2. Regeneration type: 1R, 2R, 3R
3. Regeneration pool properties for the case of selective
regeneration (input and output restrictions, availability)
Note that the properties of shared regenerator pools would be
essentially the same as that of wavelength converter pools modeled in
Section 3.6.1.
Item B (fault and performance monitoring) is typically outside the
scope of the control plane. However, when the operations are to be
performed on an LSP basis or on part of an LSP, the control plane can
be of assistance in their configuration. Per-LSP, per-node, and
fault and performance monitoring examples include setting up a
"section trace" (a regenerator overhead identifier) between two nodes
or intermediate optical performance monitoring at selected nodes
along a path.
4. Routing and Wavelength Assignment and the Control Plane
From a control plane perspective, a wavelength-convertible network
with full wavelength-conversion capability at each node can be
controlled much like a packet MPLS-labeled network or a circuit-
switched Time Division Multiplexing (TDM) network with full-time slot
interchange capability is controlled. In this case, the path
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 26
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
selection process needs to identify the Traffic Engineered (TE) links
to be used by an optical path, and wavelength assignment can be made
on a hop-by-hop basis.
However, in the case of an optical network without wavelength
converters, an optical path needs to be routed from source to
destination and must use a single wavelength that is available along
that path without "colliding" with a wavelength used by any other
optical path that may share an optical fiber. This is sometimes
referred to as a "wavelength continuity constraint".
In the general case of limited or no wavelength converters, the
computation of both the links and wavelengths is known as RWA.
The inputs to basic RWA are the requested optical path's source and
destination, the network topology, the locations and capabilities of
any wavelength converters, and the wavelengths available on each
optical link. The output from an algorithm providing RWA is an
explicit route through ROADMs, a wavelength for optical transmitter,
and a set of locations (generally associated with ROADMs or switches)
where wavelength conversion is to occur and the new wavelength to be
used on each component link after that point in the route.
It is to be noted that the choice of a specific RWA algorithm is out
of the scope of this document. However, there are a number of
different approaches to dealing with RWA algorithms that can affect
the division of effort between path computation/routing and
signaling.
4.1. Architectural Approaches to RWA
Two general computational approaches are taken to performing RWA.
Some algorithms utilize a two-step procedure of path selection
followed by wavelength assignment, and others perform RWA in a
combined fashion.
In the following sections, three different ways of performing RWA in
conjunction with the control plane are considered. The choice of one
of these architectural approaches over another generally impacts the
demands placed on the various control plane protocols. The
approaches are provided for reference purposes only, and other
approaches are possible.
4.1.1. Combined RWA (R&WA)
In this case, a unique entity is in charge of performing routing and
wavelength assignment. This approach relies on a sufficient
knowledge of network topology, of available network resources, and of
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 27
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
network nodes' capabilities. This solution is compatible with most
known RWA algorithms, particularly those concerned with network
optimization. On the other hand, this solution requires up-to-date
and detailed network information.
Such a computational entity could reside in two different places:
o In a PCE that maintains a complete and updated view of network
state and provides path computation services to nodes
o In an ingress node, in which case all nodes have the R&WA
functionality and network state is obtained by a periodic flooding
of information provided by the other nodes
4.1.2. Separated R and WA (R+WA)
In this case, one entity performs routing while a second performs
wavelength assignment. The first entity furnishes one or more paths
to the second entity, which will perform wavelength assignment and
final path selection.
The separation of the entities computing the path and the wavelength
assignment constrains the class of RWA algorithms that may be
implemented. Although it may seem that algorithms optimizing a joint
usage of the physical and wavelength paths are excluded from this
solution, many practical optimization algorithms only consider a
limited set of possible paths, e.g., as computed via a k-shortest
path algorithm. Hence, while there is no guarantee that the selected
final route and wavelength offer the optimal solution, reasonable
optimization can be performed by allowing multiple routes to pass to
the wavelength selection process.
The entity performing the routing assignment needs the topology
information of the network, whereas the entity performing the
wavelength assignment needs information on the network's available
resources and specific network node capabilities.
4.1.3. Routing and Distributed WA (R+DWA)
In this case, one entity performs routing, while wavelength
assignment is performed on a hop-by-hop, distributed manner along the
previously computed path. This mechanism relies on updating of a
list of potential wavelengths used to ensure conformance with the
wavelength continuity constraint.
As currently specified, the GMPLS protocol suite signaling protocol
can accommodate such an approach. GMPLS, per [RFC 3471], includes
support for the communication of the set of labels (wavelengths) that
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 28
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
may be used between nodes via a Label Set. When conversion is not
performed at an intermediate node, a hop generates the Label Set it
sends to the next hop based on the intersection of the Label Set
received from the previous hop and the wavelengths available on the
node's switch and ongoing interface. The generation of the outgoing
Label Set is up to the node local policy (even if one expects a
consistent policy configuration throughout a given transparency
domain). When wavelength conversion is performed at an intermediate
node, a new Label Set is generated. The egress node selects one
label in the Label Set that it received; additionally, the node can
apply local policy during label selection. GMPLS also provides
support for the signaling of bidirectional optical paths.
Depending on these policies, a wavelength assignment may not be
found, or one may be found that consumes too many conversion
resources relative to what a dedicated wavelength assignment policy
would have achieved. Hence, this approach may generate higher
blocking probabilities in a heavily loaded network.
This solution may be facilitated via signaling extensions that ease
its functioning and possibly enhance its performance with respect to
blocking probability. Note that this approach requires less
information dissemination than the other techniques described.
The first entity may be a PCE or the ingress node of the LSP.
4.2. Conveying Information Needed by RWA
The previous sections have characterized WSONs and optical path
requests. In particular, high-level models of the information used
by RWA process were presented. This information can be viewed as
either relatively static, i.e., changing with hardware changes
(including possibly failures), or relatively dynamic, i.e., those
that can change with optical path provisioning. The time requirement
in which an entity involved in RWA process needs to be notified of
such changes is fairly situational. For example, for network
restoration purposes, learning of a hardware failure or of new
hardware coming online to provide restoration capability can be
critical.
Currently, there are various methods for communicating RWA relevant
information. These include, but are not limited to, the following:
o Existing control plane protocols, i.e., GMPLS routing and
signaling. Note that routing protocols can be used to convey both
static and dynamic information.
o Management protocols such as NetConf, SNMPv3, and CORBA.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 29
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
o Methods to access configuration and status information such as a
command line interface (CLI).
o Directory services and accompanying protocols. These are
typically used for the dissemination of relatively static
information. Directory services are not suited to manage
information in dynamic and fluid environments.
o Other techniques for dynamic information, e.g., sending
information directly from NEs to PCEs to avoid flooding. This
would be useful if the number of PCEs is significantly less than
the number of WSON NEs. There may be other ways to limit flooding
to "interested" NEs.
Possible mechanisms to improve scaling of dynamic information
include:
o Tailoring message content to WSON, e.g., the use of wavelength
ranges or wavelength occupation bit maps
o Utilizing incremental updates if feasible
5. Modeling Examples and Control Plane Use Cases
This section provides examples of the fixed and switched optical node
and wavelength constraint models of Section 3 and use cases for WSON
control plane path computation, establishment, rerouting, and
optimization.
5.1. Network Modeling for GMPLS/PCE Control
Consider a network containing three routers (R1 through R3), eight
WSON nodes (N1 through N8), 18 links (L1 through L18), and one OEO
converter (O1) in a topology shown in Figure 7.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 30
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
+--+ +--+ +--+ +--------+
+-L3-+N2+-L5-+ +--------L12--+N6+--L15--+ N8 +
| +--+ |N4+-L8---+ +--+ ++--+---++
| | +-L9--+| | | |
+--+ +-+-+ ++-+ || | L17 L18
| ++-L1--+ | | ++++ +----L16---+ | |
|R1| | N1| L7 |R2| | | |
| ++-L2--+ | | ++-+ | ++---++
+--+ +-+-+ | | | + R3 |
| +--+ ++-+ | | +-----+
+-L4-+N3+-L6-+N5+-L10-+ ++----+
+--+ | +--------L11--+ N7 +
+--+ ++---++
| |
L13 L14
| |
++-+ |
|O1+-+
+--+
Figure 7. Routers and WSON Nodes in a GMPLS and PCE Environment
5.1.1. Describing the WSON Nodes
The eight WSON nodes described in Figure 7 have the following
properties:
o Nodes N1, N2, and N3 have FOADMs installed and can therefore only
access a static and pre-defined set of wavelengths.
o All other nodes contain ROADMs and can therefore access all
wavelengths.
o Nodes N4, N5, N7, and N8 are multi-degree nodes, allowing any
wavelength to be optically switched between any of the links.
Note, however, that this does not automatically apply to
wavelengths that are being added or dropped at the particular
node.
o Node N4 is an exception to that: this node can switch any
wavelength from its add/drop ports to any of its output links (L5,
L7, and L12 in this case).
o The links from the routers are only able to carry one wavelength,
with the exception of links L8 and L9, which are capable to
add/drop any wavelength.
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o Node N7 contains an OEO transponder (O1) connected to the node via
links L13 and L14. That transponder operates in 3R mode and does
not change the wavelength of the signal. Assume that it can
regenerate any of the client signals but only for a specific
wavelength.
Given the above restrictions, the node information for the eight
nodes can be expressed as follows (where ID = identifier, SCM =
switched connectivity matrix, and FCM = fixed connectivity matrix):
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RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
+ID+SCM +FCM +
| | |L1 |L2 |L3 |L4 | | |L1 |L2 |L3 |L4 | |
| |L1 |0 |0 |0 |0 | |L1 |0 |0 |1 |0 | |
|N1|L2 |0 |0 |0 |0 | |L2 |0 |0 |0 |1 | |
| |L3 |0 |0 |0 |0 | |L3 |1 |0 |0 |1 | |
| |L4 |0 |0 |0 |0 | |L4 |0 |1 |1 |0 | |
+--+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+
| | |L3 |L5 | | | | |L3 |L5 | | | |
|N2|L3 |0 |0 | | | |L3 |0 |1 | | | |
| |L5 |0 |0 | | | |L5 |1 |0 | | | |
+--+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+
| | |L4 |L6 | | | | |L4 |L6 | | | |
|N3|L4 |0 |0 | | | |L4 |0 |1 | | | |
| |L6 |0 |0 | | | |L6 |1 |0 | | | |
+--+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+
| | |L5 |L7 |L8 |L9 |L12| |L5 |L7 |L8 |L9 |L12|
| |L5 |0 |1 |1 |1 |1 |L5 |0 |0 |0 |0 |0 |
|N4|L7 |1 |0 |1 |1 |1 |L7 |0 |0 |0 |0 |0 |
| |L8 |1 |1 |0 |1 |1 |L8 |0 |0 |0 |0 |0 |
| |L9 |1 |1 |1 |0 |1 |L9 |0 |0 |0 |0 |0 |
| |L12|1 |1 |1 |1 |0 |L12|0 |0 |0 |0 |0 |
+--+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+
| | |L6 |L7 |L10|L11| | |L6 |L7 |L10|L11| |
| |L6 |0 |1 |0 |1 | |L6 |0 |0 |1 |0 | |
|N5|L7 |1 |0 |0 |1 | |L7 |0 |0 |0 |0 | |
| |L10|0 |0 |0 |0 | |L10|1 |0 |0 |0 | |
| |L11|1 |1 |0 |0 | |L11|0 |0 |0 |0 | |
+--+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+
| | |L12|L15| | | | |L12|L15| | | |
|N6|L12|0 |1 | | | |L12|0 |0 | | | |
| |L15|1 |0 | | | |L15|0 |0 | | | |
+--+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+
| | |L11|L13|L14|L16| | |L11|L13|L14|L16| |
| |L11|0 |1 |0 |1 | |L11|0 |0 |0 |0 | |
|N7|L13|1 |0 |0 |0 | |L13|0 |0 |1 |0 | |
| |L14|0 |0 |0 |1 | |L14|0 |1 |0 |0 | |
| |L16|1 |0 |1 |0 | |L16|0 |0 |1 |0 | |
+--+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+
| | |L15|L16|L17|L18| | |L15|L16|L17|L18| |
| |L15|0 |1 |0 |0 | |L15|0 |0 |0 |1 | |
|N8|L16|1 |0 |0 |0 | |L16|0 |0 |1 |0 | |
| |L17|0 |0 |0 |0 | |L17|0 |1 |0 |0 | |
| |L18|0 |0 |0 |0 | |L18|1 |0 |1 |0 | |
+--+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+---+
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5.1.2. Describing the Links
For the following discussion, some simplifying assumptions are made:
o It is assumed that the WSON node supports a total of four
wavelengths, designated WL1 through WL4.
o It is assumed that the impairment feasibility of a path or path
segment is independent from the wavelength chosen.
For the discussion of RWA operation, to build LSPs between two
routers, the wavelength constraints on the links between the routers
and the WSON nodes as well as the connectivity matrix of these links
need to be specified:
+Link+WLs supported +Possible output links+
| L1 | WL1 | L3 |
+----+-----------------+---------------------+
| L2 | WL2 | L4 |
+----+-----------------+---------------------+
| L8 | WL1 WL2 WL3 WL4 | L5 L7 L12 |
+----+-----------------+---------------------+
| L9 | WL1 WL2 WL3 WL4 | L5 L7 L12 |
+----+-----------------+---------------------+
| L10| WL2 | L6 |
+----+-----------------+---------------------+
| L13| WL1 WL2 WL3 WL4 | L11 L14 |
+----+-----------------+---------------------+
| L14| WL1 WL2 WL3 WL4 | L13 L16 |
+----+-----------------+---------------------+
| L17| WL2 | L16 |
+----+-----------------+---------------------+
| L18| WL1 | L15 |
+----+-----------------+---------------------+
Note that the possible output links for the links connecting to the
routers is inferred from the switched connectivity matrix and the
fixed connectivity matrix of the Nodes N1 through N8 and is shown
here for convenience; that is, this information does not need to be
repeated.
5.2. RWA Path Computation and Establishment
The calculation of optical impairment feasible routes is outside the
scope of this document. In general, optical impairment feasible
routes serve as an input to an RWA algorithm.
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For the example use case shown here, assume the following feasible
routes:
+Endpoint 1+Endpoint 2+Feasible Route +
| R1 | R2 | L1 L3 L5 L8 |
| R1 | R2 | L1 L3 L5 L9 |
| R1 | R2 | L2 L4 L6 L7 L8 |
| R1 | R2 | L2 L4 L6 L7 L9 |
| R1 | R2 | L2 L4 L6 L10 |
| R1 | R3 | L1 L3 L5 L12 L15 L18 |
| R1 | N7 | L2 L4 L6 L11 |
| N7 | R3 | L16 L17 |
| N7 | R2 | L16 L15 L12 L9 |
| R2 | R3 | L8 L12 L15 L18 |
| R2 | R3 | L8 L7 L11 L16 L17 |
| R2 | R3 | L9 L12 L15 L18 |
| R2 | R3 | L9 L7 L11 L16 L17 |
Given a request to establish an LSP between R1 and R2, an RWA
algorithm finds the following possible solutions:
+WL + Path +
| WL1| L1 L3 L5 L8 |
| WL1| L1 L3 L5 L9 |
| WL2| L2 L4 L6 L7 L8|
| WL2| L2 L4 L6 L7 L9|
| WL2| L2 L4 L6 L10 |
Assume now that an RWA algorithm yields WL1 and the path L1 L3 L5 L8
for the requested LSP.
Next, another LSP is signaled from R1 to R2. Given the established
LSP using WL1, the following table shows the available paths:
+WL + Path +
| WL2| L2 L4 L6 L7 L9|
| WL2| L2 L4 L6 L10 |
Assume now that an RWA algorithm yields WL2 and the path L2 L4 L6 L7
L9 for the establishment of the new LSP.
An LSP request -- this time from R2 to R3 -- cannot be fulfilled
since the four possible paths (starting at L8 and L9) are already in
use.
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5.3. Resource Optimization
The preceding example gives rise to another use case: the
optimization of network resources. Optimization can be achieved on a
number of layers (e.g., through electrical or optical multiplexing of
client signals) or by re-optimizing the solutions found by an RWA
algorithm.
Given the above example again, assume that an RWA algorithm should
identify a path between R2 and R3. The only possible path to reach
R3 from R2 needs to use L9. L9, however, is blocked by one of the
LSPs from R1.
5.4. Support for Rerouting
It is also envisioned that the extensions to GMPLS and PCE support
rerouting of wavelengths in case of failures.
For this discussion, assume that the only two LSPs in use in the
system are:
LSP1: WL1 L1 L3 L5 L8
LSP2: WL2 L2 L4 L6 L7 L9
Furthermore, assume that the L5 fails. An RWA algorithm can now
compute and establish the following alternate path:
R1 -> N7 -> R2
Level 3 regeneration will take place at N7, so that the complete path
looks like this:
R1 -> L2 L4 L6 L11 L13 -> O1 -> L14 L16 L15 L12 L9 -> R2
5.5. Electro-Optical Networking Scenarios
In the following subsections, various networking scenarios are
considered involving regenerators, OEO switches, and wavelength
converters. These scenarios can be grouped roughly by type and
number of extensions to the GMPLS control plane that would be
required.
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5.5.1. Fixed Regeneration Points
In the simplest networking scenario involving regenerators,
regeneration is associated with a WDM link or an entire node and is
not optional; that is, all signals traversing the link or node will
be regenerated. This includes OEO switches since they provide
regeneration on every port.
There may be input constraints and output constraints on the
regenerators. Hence, the path selection process will need to know
the regenerator constraints from routing or other means so that it
can choose a compatible path. For impairment-aware routing and
wavelength assignment (IA-RWA), the path selection process will also
need to know which links/nodes provide regeneration. Even for
"regular" RWA, this regeneration information is useful since
wavelength converters typically perform regeneration, and the
wavelength continuity constraint can be relaxed at such a point.
Signaling does not need to be enhanced to include this scenario since
there are no reconfigurable regenerator options on input, output, or
processing.
5.5.2. Shared Regeneration Pools
In this scenario, there are nodes with shared regenerator pools
within the network in addition to the fixed regenerators of the
previous scenario. These regenerators are shared within a node and
their application to a signal is optional. There are no
reconfigurable options on either input or output. The only
processing option is to "regenerate" a particular signal or not.
In this case, regenerator information is used in path computation to
select a path that ensures signal compatibility and IA-RWA criteria.
To set up an LSP that utilizes a regenerator from a node with a
shared regenerator pool, it is necessary to indicate that
regeneration is to take place at that particular node along the
signal path. Such a capability does not currently exist in GMPLS
signaling.
5.5.3. Reconfigurable Regenerators
This scenario is concerned with regenerators that require
configuration prior to use on an optical signal. As discussed
previously, this could be due to a regenerator that must be
configured to accept signals with different characteristics, for
regenerators with a selection of output attributes, or for
regenerators with additional optional processing capabilities.
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As in the previous scenarios, it is necessary to have information
concerning regenerator properties for selection of compatible paths
and for IA-RWA computations. In addition, during LSP setup, it is
necessary to be able to configure regenerator options at a particular
node along the path. Such a capability does not currently exist in
GMPLS signaling.
5.5.4. Relation to Translucent Networks
Networks that contain both transparent network elements such as
Reconfigurable Optical Add/Drop Multiplexers (ROADMs) and electro-
optical network elements such as regenerators or OEO switches are
frequently referred to as translucent optical networks.
Three main types of translucent optical networks have been discussed:
1. Transparent "islands" surrounded by regenerators. This is
frequently seen when transitioning from a metro optical
subnetwork to a long-haul optical subnetwork.
2. Mostly transparent networks with a limited number of OEO
("opaque") nodes strategically placed. This takes advantage of
the inherent regeneration capabilities of OEO switches. In the
planning of such networks, one has to determine the optimal
placement of the OEO switches.
3. Mostly transparent networks with a limited number of optical
switching nodes with "shared regenerator pools" that can be
optionally applied to signals passing through these switches.
These switches are sometimes called translucent nodes.
All three types of translucent networks fit within the networking
scenarios of Sections 5.5.1 and 5.5.2. Hence, they can be
accommodated by the GMPLS extensions envisioned in this document.
6. GMPLS and PCE Implications
The presence and amount of wavelength conversion available at a
wavelength switching interface have an impact on the information that
needs to be transferred by the control plane (GMPLS) and the PCE
architecture. Current GMPLS and PCE standards address the full
wavelength conversion case, so the following subsections will only
address the limited and no wavelength conversion cases.
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6.1. Implications for GMPLS Signaling
Basic support for WSON signaling already exists in GMPLS with the
lambda (value 9) LSP encoding type [RFC 3471] or for G.709-compatible
optical channels, the LSP encoding type (value = 13) "G.709 Optical
Channel" from [RFC 4328]. However, a number of practical issues arise
in the identification of wavelengths and signals and in distributed
wavelength assignment processes, which are discussed below.
6.1.1. Identifying Wavelengths and Signals
As previously stated, a global-fixed mapping between wavelengths and
labels simplifies the characterization of WDM links and WSON devices.
Furthermore, a mapping like the one described in [RFC 6205] provides
fixed mapping for communication between PCE and WSON PCCs.
6.1.2. WSON Signals and Network Element Processing
As discussed in Section 3.3.2, a WSON signal at any point along its
path can be characterized by the (a) modulation format, (b) FEC, (c)
wavelength, (d) bitrate, and (e) G-PID.
Currently, G-PID, wavelength (via labels), and bitrate (via bandwidth
encoding) are supported in [RFC 3471] and [RFC 3473]. These RFCs can
accommodate the wavelength changing at any node along the LSP and can
thus provide explicit control of wavelength converters.
In the fixed regeneration point scenario described in Section 5.5.1,
no enhancements are required to signaling since there are no
additional configuration options for the LSP at a node.
In the case of shared regeneration pools described in Section 5.5.2,
it is necessary to indicate to a node that it should perform
regeneration on a particular signal. Viewed another way, for an LSP,
it is desirable to specify that certain nodes along the path perform
regeneration. Such a capability does not currently exist in GMPLS
signaling.
The case of reconfigurable regenerators described in Section 5.5.3 is
very similar to the previous except that now there are potentially
many more items that can be configured on a per-node basis for an
LSP.
Note that the techniques of [RFC 5420] that allow for additional LSP
attributes and their recording in a Record Route Object (RRO) could
be extended to allow for additional LSP attributes in an Explicit
Route Object (ERO). This could allow one to indicate where optional
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3R regeneration should take place along a path, any modification of
LSP attributes such as modulation format, or any enhance processing
such as performance monitoring.
6.1.3. Combined RWA/Separate Routing WA support
In either the combined RWA case or the separate routing WA case, the
node initiating the signaling will have a route from the source to
destination along with the wavelengths (generalized labels) to be
used along portions of the path. Current GMPLS signaling supports an
Explicit Route Object (ERO), and within an ERO, an ERO Label
subobject can be used to indicate the wavelength to be used at a
particular node. In case the local label map approach is used, the
label subobject entry in the ERO has to be interpreted appropriately.
6.1.4. Distributed Wavelength Assignment: Unidirectional, No Converters
GMPLS signaling for a unidirectional optical path LSP allows for the
use of a Label Set object in the Resource Reservation Protocol -
Traffic Engineering (RSVP-TE) path message. Processing of the Label
Set object to take the intersection of available lambdas along a path
can be performed, resulting in the set of available lambdas being
known to the destination, which can then use a wavelength selection
algorithm to choose a lambda.
6.1.5. Distributed Wavelength Assignment: Unidirectional, Limited
Converters
In the case of wavelength converters, nodes with wavelength
converters would need to make the decision as to whether to perform
conversion. One indicator for this would be that the set of
available wavelengths that is obtained via the intersection of the
incoming Label Set and the output links available wavelengths is
either null or deemed too small to permit successful completion.
At this point, the node would need to remember that it will apply
wavelength conversion and will be responsible for assigning the
wavelength on the previous lambda-contiguous segment when the RSVP-TE
RESV message is processed. The node will pass on an enlarged label
set reflecting only the limitations of the wavelength converter and
the output link. The record route option in RSVP-TE signaling can be
used to show where wavelength conversion has taken place.
6.1.6. Distributed Wavelength Assignment: Bidirectional, No Converters
There are cases of a bidirectional optical path that require the use
of the same lambda in both directions. The above procedure can be
used to determine the available bidirectional lambda set if it is
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interpreted that the available Label Set is available in both
directions. According to [RFC 3471], Section 4.1, the setup of
bidirectional LSPs is indicated by the presence of an upstream label
in the path message.
However, until the intersection of the available Label Sets is
determined along the path and at the destination node, the upstream
label information may not be correct. This case can be supported
using current GMPLS mechanisms but may not be as efficient as an
optimized bidirectional single-label allocation mechanism.
6.2. Implications for GMPLS Routing
GMPLS routing [RFC 4202] currently defines an interface capability
descriptor for "Lambda Switch Capable" (LSC) that can be used to
describe the interfaces on a ROADM or other type of wavelength
selective switch. In addition to the topology information typically
conveyed via an Interior Gateway Protocol (IGP), it would be
necessary to convey the following subsystem properties to minimally
characterize a WSON:
1. WDM link properties (allowed wavelengths)
2. Optical transmitters (wavelength range)
3. ROADM/FOADM properties (connectivity matrix, port wavelength
restrictions)
4. Wavelength converter properties (per network element, may change
if a common limited shared pool is used)
This information is modeled in detail in [WSON-Info], and a compact
encoding is given in [WSON-Encode].
6.2.1. Electro-Optical Element Signal Compatibility
In network scenarios where signal compatibility is a concern, it is
necessary to add parameters to our existing node and link models to
take into account electro-optical input constraints, output
constraints, and the signal-processing capabilities of an NE in path
computations.
Input constraints:
1. Permitted optical tributary signal classes: A list of optical
tributary signal classes that can be processed by this network
element or carried over this link (configuration type)
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2. Acceptable FEC codes (configuration type)
3. Acceptable bitrate set: a list of specific bitrates or bitrate
ranges that the device can accommodate. Coarse bitrate info is
included with the optical tributary signal-class restrictions.
4. Acceptable G-PID list: a list of G-PIDs corresponding to the
"client" digital streams that is compatible with this device
Note that the bitrate of the signal does not change over the LSP.
This can be communicated as an LSP parameter; therefore, this
information would be available for any NE that needs to use it for
configuration. Hence, it is not necessary to have "configuration
type" for the NE with respect to bitrate.
Output constraints:
1. Output modulation: (a) same as input, (b) list of available types
2. FEC options: (a) same as input, (b) list of available codes
Processing capabilities:
1. Regeneration: (a) 1R, (b) 2R, (c) 3R, (d) list of selectable
regeneration types
2. Fault and performance monitoring: (a) G-PID particular
capabilities, (b) optical performance monitoring capabilities.
Note that such parameters could be specified on (a) a network-
element-wide basis, (b) a per-port basis, or (c) a per-regenerator
basis. Typically, such information has been on a per-port basis; see
the GMPLS interface switching capability descriptor [RFC 4202].
6.2.2. Wavelength-Specific Availability Information
For wavelength assignment, it is necessary to know which specific
wavelengths are available and which are occupied if a combined RWA
process or separate WA process is run as discussed in Sections 4.1.1
and 4.1.2. This is currently not possible with GMPLS routing.
In the routing extensions for GMPLS [RFC 4202], requirements for
layer-specific TE attributes are discussed. RWA for optical networks
without wavelength converters imposes an additional requirement for
the lambda (or optical channel) layer: that of knowing which specific
wavelengths are in use. Note that current DWDM systems range from 16
channels to 128 channels, with advanced laboratory systems with as
many as 300 channels. Given these channel limitations, if the
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approach of a global wavelength to label mapping or furnishing the
local mappings to the PCEs is taken, representing the use of
wavelengths via a simple bitmap is feasible [Gen-Encode].
6.2.3. WSON Routing Information Summary
The following table summarizes the WSON information that could be
conveyed via GMPLS routing and attempts to classify that information
according to its static or dynamic nature and its association with
either a link or a node.
Information Static/Dynamic Node/Link
------------------------------------------------------------------
Connectivity matrix Static Node
Per-port wavelength restrictions Static Node(1)
WDM link (fiber) lambda ranges Static Link
WDM link channel spacing Static Link
Optical transmitter range Static Link(2)
Wavelength conversion capabilities Static(3) Node
Maximum bandwidth per wavelength Static Link
Wavelength availability Dynamic(4) Link
Signal compatibility and processing Static/Dynamic Node
Notes:
1. These are the per-port wavelength restrictions of an optical
device such as a ROADM and are independent of any optical
constraints imposed by a fiber link.
2. This could also be viewed as a node capability.
3. This could be dynamic in the case of a limited pool of converters
where the number available can change with connection
establishment. Note that it may be desirable to include
regeneration capabilities here since OEO converters are also
regenerators.
4. This is not necessarily needed in the case of distributed
wavelength assignment via signaling.
While the full complement of the information from the previous table
is needed in the Combined RWA and the separate Routing and WA
architectures, in the case of Routing + Distributed WA via Signaling,
only the following information is needed:
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Information Static/Dynamic Node/Link
------------------------------------------------------------------
Connectivity matrix Static Node
Wavelength conversion capabilities Static(3) Node
Information models and compact encodings for this information are
provided in [WSON-Info], [Gen-Encode], and [WSON-Encode].
6.3. Optical Path Computation and Implications for PCE
As previously noted, RWA can be computationally intensive. Such
computationally intensive path computations and optimizations were
part of the impetus for the PCE architecture [RFC 4655].
The Path Computation Element Communication Protocol (PCEP) defines
the procedures necessary to support both sequential [RFC 5440] and
Global Concurrent Optimization (GCO) path computations [RFC 5557].
With some protocol enhancement, the PCEP is well positioned to
support WSON-enabled RWA computation.
Implications for PCE generally fall into two main categories: (a)
optical path constraints and characteristics, (b) computation
architectures.
6.3.1. Optical Path Constraints and Characteristics
For the varying degrees of optimization that may be encountered in a
network, the following models of bulk and sequential optical path
requests are encountered:
o Batch optimization, multiple optical paths requested at one time
(PCE-GCO)
o Optical path(s) and backup optical path(s) requested at one time
(PCEP)
o Single optical path requested at a time (PCEP)
PCEP and PCE-GCO can be readily enhanced to support all of the
potential models of RWA computation.
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Optical path constraints include:
o Bidirectional assignment of wavelengths
o Possible simultaneous assignment of wavelength to primary and
backup paths
o Tuning range constraint on optical transmitter
6.3.2. Electro-Optical Element Signal Compatibility
When requesting a path computation to PCE, the PCC should be able to
indicate the following:
o The G-PID type of an LSP
o The signal attributes at the transmitter (at the source): (i)
modulation type, (ii) FEC type
o The signal attributes at the receiver (at the sink): (i)
modulation type, (ii) FEC type
The PCE should be able to respond to the PCC with the following:
o The conformity of the requested optical characteristics associated
with the resulting LSP with the source, sink, and NE along the LSP
o Additional LSP attributes modified along the path (e.g.,
modulation format change)
6.3.3. Discovery of RWA-Capable PCEs
The algorithms and network information needed for RWA are somewhat
specialized and computationally intensive; hence, not all PCEs within
a domain would necessarily need or want this capability. Therefore,
it would be useful to indicate that a PCE has the ability to deal
with RWA via the mechanisms being established for PCE discovery
[RFC 5088]. [RFC 5088] indicates that a sub-TLV could be allocated for
this purpose.
Recent progress on objective functions in PCE [RFC 5541] would allow
operators to flexibly request differing objective functions per their
need and applications. For instance, this would allow the operator
to choose an objective function that minimizes the total network cost
associated with setting up a set of paths concurrently. This would
also allow operators to choose an objective function that results in
the most evenly distributed link utilization.
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This implies that PCEP would easily accommodate a wavelength
selection algorithm in its objective function to be able to optimize
the path computation from the perspective of wavelength assignment if
chosen by the operators.
7. Security Considerations
This document does not require changes to the security models within
GMPLS and associated protocols. That is, the OSPF-TE, RSVP-TE, and
PCEP security models could be operated unchanged.
However, satisfying the requirements for RWA using the existing
protocols may significantly affect the loading of those protocols.
This may make the operation of the network more vulnerable to denial-
of-service attacks. Therefore, additional care maybe required to
ensure that the protocols are secure in the WSON environment.
Furthermore, the additional information distributed in order to
address RWA represents a disclosure of network capabilities that an
operator may wish to keep private. Consideration should be given to
securing this information. For a general discussion on MPLS- and
GMPLS-related security issues, see the MPLS/GMPLS security framework
[RFC 5920].
8. Acknowledgments
The authors would like to thank Adrian Farrel for many helpful
comments that greatly improved the contents of this document.
9. References
9.1. Normative References
[RFC 3471] Berger, L., Ed., "Generalized Multi-Protocol Label
Switching (GMPLS) Signaling Functional Description",
RFC 3471, January 2003.
[RFC 3473] Berger, L., Ed., "Generalized Multi-Protocol Label
Switching (GMPLS) Signaling Resource ReserVation
Protocol-Traffic Engineering (RSVP-TE) Extensions", RFC
3473, January 2003.
[RFC 3945] Mannie, E., Ed., "Generalized Multi-Protocol Label
Switching (GMPLS) Architecture", RFC 3945, October
2004.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 46
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
[RFC 4202] Kompella, K., Ed., and Y. Rekhter, Ed., "Routing
Extensions in Support of Generalized Multi-Protocol
Label Switching (GMPLS)", RFC 4202, October 2005.
[RFC 4328] Papadimitriou, D., Ed., "Generalized Multi-Protocol
Label Switching (GMPLS) Signaling Extensions for G.709
Optical Transport Networks Control", RFC 4328, January
2006.
[RFC 4655] Farrel, A., Vasseur, J.-P., and J. Ash, "A Path
Computation Element (PCE)-Based Architecture", RFC
4655, August 2006.
[RFC 5088] Le Roux, JL., Ed., Vasseur, JP., Ed., Ikejiri, Y., and
R. Zhang, "OSPF Protocol Extensions for Path
Computation Element (PCE) Discovery", RFC 5088, January
2008.
[RFC 5212] Shiomoto, K., Papadimitriou, D., Le Roux, JL.,
Vigoureux, M., and D. Brungard, "Requirements for
GMPLS-Based Multi-Region and Multi-Layer Networks
(MRN/MLN)", RFC 5212, July 2008.
[RFC 5557] Lee, Y., Le Roux, JL., King, D., and E. Oki, "Path
Computation Element Communication Protocol (PCEP)
Requirements and Protocol Extensions in Support of
Global Concurrent Optimization", RFC 5557, July 2009.
[RFC 5420] Farrel, A., Ed., Papadimitriou, D., Vasseur, JP., and
A. Ayyangarps, "Encoding of Attributes for MPLS LSP
Establishment Using Resource Reservation Protocol
Traffic Engineering (RSVP-TE)", RFC 5420, February
2009.
[RFC 5440] Vasseur, JP., Ed., and JL. Le Roux, Ed., "Path
Computation Element (PCE) Communication Protocol
(PCEP)", RFC 5440, March 2009.
[RFC 5541] Le Roux, JL., Vasseur, JP., and Y. Lee, "Encoding of
Objective Functions in the Path Computation Element
Communication Protocol (PCEP)", RFC 5541, June 2009.
9.2. Informative References
[Gen-Encode] Bernstein, G., Lee, Y., Li, D., and W. Imajuku,
"General Network Element Constraint Encoding for GMPLS
Controlled Networks", Work in Progress, December 2010.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 47
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
[G.652] ITU-T Recommendation G.652, "Characteristics of a
single-mode optical fibre and cable", November 2009.
[G.653] ITU-T Recommendation G.653, "Characteristics of a
dispersion-shifted single-mode optical fibre and
cable", July 2010.
[G.654] ITU-T Recommendation G.654, "Characteristics of a cut-
off shifted single-mode optical fibre and cable", July
2010.
[G.655] ITU-T Recommendation G.655, "Characteristics of a non-
zero dispersion-shifted single-mode optical fibre and
cable", November 2009.
[G.656] ITU-T Recommendation G.656, "Characteristics of a fibre
and cable with non-zero dispersion for wideband optical
transport", July 2010.
[G.671] ITU-T Recommendation G.671, "Transmission
characteristics of optical components and subsystems",
January 2009.
[G.694.1] ITU-T Recommendation G.694.1, "Spectral grids for WDM
applications: DWDM frequency grid", June 2002.
[G.694.2] ITU-T Recommendation G.694.2, "Spectral grids for WDM
applications: CWDM wavelength grid", December 2003.
[G.698.1] ITU-T Recommendation G.698.1, "Multichannel DWDM
applications with single-channel optical interfaces",
November 2009.
[G.698.2] ITU-T Recommendation G.698.2, "Amplified multichannel
dense wavelength division multiplexing applications
with single channel optical interfaces ", November
2009.
[G.707] ITU-T Recommendation G.707, "Network node interface for
the synchronous digital hierarchy (SDH)", January 2007.
[G.709] ITU-T Recommendation G.709, "Interfaces for the Optical
Transport Network (OTN)", December 2009.
[G.872] ITU-T Recommendation G.872, "Architecture of optical
transport networks", November 2001.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 48
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
[G.959.1] ITU-T Recommendation G.959.1, "Optical transport
network physical layer interfaces", November 2009.
[G.Sup39] ITU-T Series G Supplement 39, "Optical system design
and engineering considerations", December 2008.
[Imajuku] Imajuku, W., Sone, Y., Nishioka, I., and S. Seno,
"Routing Extensions to Support Network Elements with
Switching Constraint", Work in Progress, July 2007.
[RFC 6205] Otani, T., Ed. and D. Li, Ed., "Generalized Labels of
Lambda-Switch Capable (LSC) Label Switching Routers",
RFC 6205, March 2011.
[RFC 5920] Fang, L., Ed., "Security Framework for MPLS and GMPLS
Networks", RFC 5920, July 2010.
[WSON-Encode] Bernstein, G., Lee, Y., Li, D., and W. Imajuku,
"Routing and Wavelength Assignment Information Encoding
for Wavelength Switched Optical Networks", Work in
Progress, March 2011.
[WSON-Imp] Lee, Y., Bernstein, G., Li, D., and G. Martinelli, "A
Framework for the Control of Wavelength Switched
Optical Networks (WSON) with Impairments", Work in
Progress, April 2011.
[WSON-Info] Bernstein, G., Lee, Y., Li, D., and W. Imajuku,
"Routing and Wavelength Assignment Information Model
for Wavelength Switched Optical Networks", Work in
Progress, July 2008.
Contributors
Snigdho Bardalai
Fujitsu
EMail: Snigdho.Bardalai@us.fujitsu.com
Diego Caviglia
Ericsson
Via A. Negrone 1/A 16153
Genoa
Italy
Phone: +39 010 600 3736
EMail: diego.caviglia@marconi.com, diego.caviglia@ericsson.com
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 49
RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
Daniel King
Old Dog Consulting
UK
EMail: daniel@olddog.co.uk
Itaru Nishioka
NEC Corp.
1753 Simonumabe, Nakahara-ku
Kawasaki, Kanagawa 211-8666
Japan
Phone: +81 44 396 3287
EMail: i-nishioka@cb.jp.nec.com
Lyndon Ong
Ciena
EMail: Lyong@Ciena.com
Pierre Peloso
Alcatel-Lucent
Route de Villejust, 91620 Nozay
France
EMail: pierre.peloso@alcatel-lucent.fr
Jonathan Sadler
Tellabs
EMail: Jonathan.Sadler@tellabs.com
Dirk Schroetter
Cisco
EMail: dschroet@cisco.com
Jonas Martensson
Acreo
Electrum 236
16440 Kista
Sweden
EMail: Jonas.Martensson@acreo.se
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RFC 6163 Wavelength Switched Optical Networks April 2011
Authors' Addresses
Young Lee (editor)
Huawei Technologies
1700 Alma Drive, Suite 100
Plano, TX 75075
USA
Phone: (972) 509-5599 (x2240)
EMail: ylee@huawei.com
Greg M. Bernstein (editor)
Grotto Networking
Fremont, CA
USA
Phone: (510) 573-2237
EMail: gregb@grotto-networking.com
Wataru Imajuku
NTT Network Innovation Labs
1-1 Hikari-no-oka, Yokosuka, Kanagawa
Japan
Phone: +81-(46) 859-4315
EMail: wataru.imajuku@ieee.org
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 51
Framework for GMPLS and Path Computation Element (PCE) Control of Wavelength Switched Optical Networks (WSONs)
RFC TOTAL SIZE: 115511 bytes
PUBLICATION DATE: Monday, April 25th, 2011
LEGAL RIGHTS: The IETF Trust (see BCP 78)
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