CWDM test and monitoring equipment

[CHRISTINE BERNS]

We are considering dark fiber to connect two regional datacenters and would like to use CWDM if the distance is not too great. I am looking for suggestions as to what kind of optical test equipment we would need to effectively monitor and troubleshoot CWDM.

[viyuan700]

suggestions as to what kind of optical test equipment we would need to effectively monitor and troubleshoot CWDM.

What  exactly you want to monitor?

CWDM are just optical passives device,To check whether your CWDM mux is working or not, you need an Optical Power meter.

[Marvin Rhoads]

Your provider who's leasing you the fiber should provide attenuation specifications for the link. Keep that handy and also your end to end results as seen by your respective ends' optical modules (Rx and Tx power levels). As long as they remain within specification, for a simple point-point link that should really be all you need.

Depending on the equipment you are using the end modules may have some more advanced functionality (e.g., Digital Optical Monitoring - DOM). See http://www.cisco.com/en/US/customer/docs/interfaces_modules/transceiver_modules/compatibility/matrix/OL_8031.html for compatibility. An example of the data provided by DOM can be seen here (for 6500 series): http://www.cisco.com/en/US/customer/docs/switches/lan/catalyst6500/catos/8.x/command/reference/sh_p_sn.html#wp2202077

Hope this helps. Please rate helpful posts.