Optical systems in the italian telecommunication network

Abstract

This paper deals with the present situation and the foreseen evolution of optical technologies in the Italian Telecommunications Network. In the last decade the Italian network has been characterized by the progressive introduction of digital transmission and switching techniques. The deployment of optical facilities in the transmission network was the tool to fully exploit the economic and operational benefits of the new digital technologies. The introduction of fiber optics (FO) in the subscriber loop is at present a key issue to modernize the access network and to provide large business customers with advanced and high-quality services. A special project is underway. In future years the transition to synchronous transmission systems (SDH), together with the upgrading of the management systems, will permit a better network survivability with real-time supervision and control.