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.\" Troff code generated by TPS Convert from ITU Original Files
.\" Not Copyright ( c) 1991
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.EN
.nr LL 40.5P
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.po 4P
.rs
\v | 5i'
.sp 1P
.ce 1000
\v'14P'
\s12FASCICLE\ IV.1
\v'4P'
.RT
.ce 0
.sp 1P
.ce 1000
\fBRecommendations\ M.10\ to\ M.782\fR \v'2P'
.EF '% \ \ \ ^''
.OF ''' \ \ \ ^ %'
.ce 0
.sp 1P
.ce 1000
\fBGENERAL\ MAINTENANCE\ PRINCIPLES\fR
.ce 0
.ce 1000
\fBMAINTENANCE\ OF\ INTERNATIONAL\ TRANSMISSION\fR
.ce 0
.sp 1P
.ce 1000
\fBSYSTEMS\ AND\ TELEPHONE\ CIRCUITS\fR \v'2P'
.ce 0
.sp 1P
.LP
.rs
.sp 22P
.ad r
Blanc
.ad b
.RT
.LP
.bp
.LP
\fBMONTAGE:\fR \ PAGE 2 = PAGE BLANCHE
.sp 1P
.RT
.LP
.EF '% Fascicle\ IV.1\ \(em\ Rec.\ M.10''
.OF '''Fascicle\ IV.1\ \(em\ Rec.\ M.10 %'
.LP
.bp
.sp 1P
.ce 1000
\v'3P'
\fBINTRODUCTION\fR
.ce 0
.sp 1P
.sp 2P
.LP
\fBRecommendation\ M.10\fR
.RT
.sp 2P
.sp 1P
.ce 1000
\fBGENERAL\ RECOMMENDATION\ CONCERNING\ MAINTENANCE\fR
.EF '% Fascicle\ IV.1\ \(em\ Rec.\ M.10''
.OF '''Fascicle\ IV.1\ \(em\ Rec.\ M.10 %'
.ce 0
.sp 1P
.PP
To enable Administrations to cooperate effectively in
maintaining the characteristics required for the international
telecommunication services, the relevant CCITT\ Recommendations, which
are based on long experience, should be applied.
\v'2P'
.sp 1P
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fBRecommendation\ M.15\fR
.RT
.sp 2P
.sp 1P
.ce 1000
\fBMAINTENANCE\ CONSIDERATIONS\ FOR\ NEW\ SYSTEMS\fR
.EF '% Fascicle\ IV.1\ \(em\ Rec.\ M.15''
.OF '''Fascicle\ IV.1\ \(em\ Rec.\ M.15 %'
.ce 0
.sp 1P
.LP
\fB1\fR \fBGeneral\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
To ensure that new systems are implemented so as to permit
compatible international operation and maintenance in the most effective
manner, the following guiding principles are indicated.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB2\fR \fBPrinciples\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
2.1
When a new system is being studied, early consideration should be given
to operational and maintenance requirements.
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
2.2
The maintenance organization and maintenance facilities (including test
equipment) should be considered early enough to ensure their availability
when the new system is introduced.
.PP
2.3
In order to reduce total (lifetime) costs and to improve the
efficiency of maintenance, new systems should be provided with internal
supervision and fault localization functions. Such functions reduce the
number and type of external test equipment to a minimum, and make it possible
to omit most external routine tests.
.PP
2.4
Where existing maintenance procedures, for example fault
reporting, are not appropriate, alternative procedures should be considered
early enough to ensure their application when the new system is introduced.
However, any new procedures should consider established maintenance principles
accepted by the CCITT.
.LP
.rs
.sp 7P
.ad r
Blanc
.ad b
.RT
.LP
.bp
.sp 2P
.LP
\fBRecommendation\ M.20\fR
.RT
.sp 2P
.sp 1P
.ce 1000
\fBMAINTENANCE\ PHILOSOPHY\ FOR\ TELECOMMUNICATIONS\ NETWORKS\fR
.EF '% Fascicle\ IV.1\ \(em\ Rec.\ M.20''
.OF '''Fascicle\ IV.1\ \(em\ Rec.\ M.20 %'
.ce 0
.sp 1P
.ce 1000
(The principles described in Recommendation M.21 should also be taken into
account.)
.sp 9p
.RT
.ce 0
.sp 1P
.LP
\fB1\fR \fBGeneral\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
1.1
Maintenance involves the whole of operations required for
setting up and maintaining, within prescribed limits, any element entering
into the setting\(hyup of a connection (see Recommendation\ M.60)
.FS
It is
recognized that for some Administrations, bringing into service is not
considered to be part of maintenance.
.FE
. In order to properly plan and
program the maintenance operations required to establish and maintain an
analogue, digital or mixed network, the following general strategy is
recommended.
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
1.1.1
A maintenance organization should be established using the guiding principles
set forth in Recommendations\ M.70 and M.710 for automatic circuits switched
over analogue, digital and mixed networks. In addition, the concept of
control and subcontrol stations found in Recommendations\ M.80 and\ M.90
for
international circuits and transmission systems should be implemented.
.PP
1.1.2
The strategy should include the following maintenance operations considerations:
.LP
a)
It should consider the evolution of the network from the
present highly analogue environment to the future almost wholly
digital environment. In doing this, it must consider the new
services and functions offered by the networks (e.g.\ CCITT
Signalling System No.\ 7 and ISDN) and the maintenance tools and
capabilities becoming available (e.g.\ performance monitoring).
.LP
b)
It should employ an overall maintenance philosophy that uses
the maintenance entity concept, failure classification and
network supervision process specified in \(sc\ 3.
.LP
c)
It should provide for the maintenance of the network
systems, equipment and circuits during the following
activities:
.LP
\(em
installation and acceptance testing (\(sc\ 4);
.LP
\(em
bringing into service (\(sc 4);
.LP
\(em
keeping the network operational (\(sc 5).
.LP
It should support other maintenance activities (\(sc 6)
associated with the administration of maintenance operations
(e.g., data bases, spare parts, failure statistics,\ etc.) along
with a detailed plan for preventive maintenance, where required,
on the various telecommunication equipments.
.LP
d)
It should have as a major aim to minimize both the
occurrence and the impact of failures and to ensure that in
cause of failure:
.LP
\(em
the right personnel can be sent to
.LP
\(em
the right place with
.LP
\(em
the right equipment
.LP
\(em
the right information at
.LP
\(em
the right time to perform
.LP
\(em
the right actions.
.PP
1.2
To apply this general strategy in a network, the following
principles can be used:
.sp 9p
.RT
.LP
\fIPreventive maintenance\fR
.LP
The maintenance carried out at predetermined intervals or
according to prescribed criteria and intended to reduce the
probability of failure or the degradation of the functioning of an
item.
.LP
.sp 1
.bp
.LP
\fICorrective maintenance\fR
.LP
The maintenance carried out after fault recognition and intended to restore
an item to a state in which it can perform a required
function.
.LP
\fIControlled maintenance\fR
.LP
A method to sustain a desired quality of service by the systematic application
of analysis techniques using centralized supervisory
facilities and/or sampling to minimize preventive maintenance and to
reduce corrective maintenance.
.PP
1.3
In general for all three types of network (analogue, digital
and mixed), the use of controlled maintenance principles is recommended,
i.e.,\ the maintenance actions are determined on the basis of information
generated in the maintained system or coming from auxiliary supervision
systems.
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
1.4
The advantages of the controlled maintenance approach are that
it directs future maintenance activity to those areas where a known improvement
in service to the customer will be achieved. The monitoring techniques
which
are inherent in controlled maintenance provide data which simplify the
identification of hidden faults by using statistical analysis.
.PP
1.5
The smaller the portion of the network which is affected by a
failure, the more difficult and/or less economic it may be to detect it
using controlled maintenance techniques. In these cases corrective and/or
preventive maintenance techniques may have to be employed.
.PP
1.6
In analogue and mixed networks a mixture of the
above\(hymentioned principles are used, depending on the existing equipment
included in the network (see Recommendations\ M.710, M.715 to M.725).
.PP
1.7
The maintenance philosophy and fundamental principles are
closely linked to:
.LP
\(em
availability performance;
.LP
\(em
network technical performance;
.LP
\(em
network economics.
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB2\fR \fBMaintenance objectives\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.1
\fIPurpose\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The main purpose of a general maintenance philosophy for analogue, digital
and mixed networks is to accomplish the aims defined in \(sc\ 1.1.
.PP
In addition the following objectives should be fulfilled:
.RT
.LP
\(em
For a defined level of service the total cost should be kept to a minimum
by the use of appropriate methods (e.g.\ centralized
operation and maintenance).
.LP
\(em
The same maintenance philosophy should be applied to
exchanges, transmission equipment, data equipment, subscriber
terminals, etc., wherever possible.
.sp 1P
.LP
2.2
\fIEconomics\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
New technology provides new possibilities for low cost maintenance not
only for individual exchanges, but for the whole network, e.g.\ using the
same technology for both transmission and switching.
.PP
The operation and maintenance functions in a network should be planned
in such a way that the life cost will be a minimum. For a defined level
of
service the total cost consists of:
.RT
.LP
\(em
investment cost
.LP
\(em
operations cost
.LP
\(em
maintenance cost
.LP
\(em
cost for loss of traffic.
.sp 1P
.LP
2.3
\fITransition from analogue to digital networks\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The basic philosophy, as described in this Recommendation, is valid in
principle, for analogue, mixed and digital networks. However, many
digital network parts are more suited to the implementation
of controlled maintenance than are analogue network parts. Due to new
technological developments maintenance functions can be incorporated within
the digital equipment. Analogue equipment often requires additional external
maintenance systems in order to permit controlled maintenance, e.g.\ ATME\
No.\ 2 (Recommendation\ O.22\ [1]).
.bp
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.4
\fICentralized maintenance operations\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The introduction of digital telecommunications equipment with
enhanced maintenance operations functions, including the facility for remote
reporting and control, provides new opportunities for centralization.
Supplement No.\ 6.2\ [2] provides a description of a centralized maintenance
organization. There are many benefits that can be gained from centralization.
These include the ability to:
.RT
.LP
\(em
be more flexible in the organization of maintenance
operations and administration;
.LP
\(em
utilize highly skilled mechanical resources more
efficiently;
.LP
\(em
utilize more effectively data and data bases;
.LP
\(em
improve maintenance effectiveness;
.LP
\(em
decrease maintenance costs;
.LP
\(em
increase the availability of transmission and
switching systems;
.LP
\(em
improve quality of service.
.PP
\fINote\fR \ \(em\ By the use of remote terminals, an Administration can
choose how they allocate their technical staff between local and centralized
locations.
.PP
Because of these benefits, it is recommended that centralized
maintenance and other operations capabilities be considered when specifying
new telecommunications systems and equipments. The general principles for
setting\(hyup, operating and maintaining a Telecommunication Management
Network (TMN) to support centralized maintenance and other operations are
given in
Recommendation\ M.30.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB3\fR \fBOverall maintenance philosophy\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.1
\fIMaintenance entity concepts\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
In order to facilitate efficient maintenance, the telecommunication network
(analogue and digital) is divided into parts, called Maintenance
Entities (MEs), Maintenance Entity Assemblies (MEAs) and Maintenance
Sub\(hyEntities (MSEs). Examples of MEs, MEAs and MSEs are given in Figures\
1, 2 and\ 3/M.20.
.RT
.LP
.rs
.sp 23P
.ad r
\fBFigure 1/M.20, p. 1\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.LP
.bp
.LP
.rs
.sp 19P
.ad r
\fBFigure 2/M.20, p. 2\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.LP
.rs
.sp 19P
.ad r
\fBFigure 3/M.20, p. 3\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.1.1
\fIDefinition of\fR
\fIMaintenance Entity\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Maintenance entities are defined by the following
principles:
.RT
.LP
\(em
The different equipments of a telecommunications network
constituting the MEs are interconnected at consecutive and
easily identifiable interface points at which points the
interface conditions defined for these equipments apply and
which possess the means of detecting maintenance events and
failures.
.FS
If an easily identifiable interface point is not
available, the interface point may be replaced by a point
permitting sectionalization with functions such as,
e.g.,\ looping\(hyback or performance monitoring.
.FE
.bp
.LP
\(em
If the telecommunication equipment supports bidirectional
transmission, it normally consists of telecommunications
equipment transmitting in both directions and then both
directions are considered part of the same ME.
.LP
\(em
When a failure occurs within a network, it is desirable that
the maintenance alarm indication appears at the failed
maintenance entity. When this is not practical, the
indication should appear at the closest possible entity.
.LP
\(em
Maintenance alarm information indications in an entity should
not cause related alarm information indications at other
entities. In the event that such indications are permitted to
occur, they should clearly indicate that the failure has
occurred upstream, and not in the other entities displaying
the information.
.PP
Meeting these four principles ensures that the responsible
maintenance personnel are called into action, and that usually no unnecessary
maintenance activity is initiated elsewhere.
.PP
In an integrated digital network, for example, easily identifiable
points may be provided by digital distribution frames. Even in a location
where no digital distribution frame is provided, an equivalent point, where
defined interface conditions apply, will normally be identifiable. The
interface
between the exchange terminals and the digital switch may be accessed on a
virtual basis.
.RT
.PP
3.1.2
An ME has to perform a determined function between transmission interfaces
(see Figure\ 4/M.20). The performance is checked by internal failure detection
and conveyed to the maintenance interface either automatically after a
failure occurrence, or after a request for maintenance information.
.sp 9p
.RT
.LP
.rs
.sp 13P
.ad r
\fBFigure 4/M.20, p.\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.PP
In addition, other operations and administrative functions may be carried
out by the maintenance interface. Several types of maintenance
interfaces are described in Recommendation\ M.30 which covers the TMN.
.sp 1P
.LP
3.1.3
\fIDefinition of\fR
\fIMaintenance Entity Assembly\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
A maintenance entity assembly (MEA) is defined by the following
principles:
.RT
.LP
\(em
An MEA contains a group of MEs assembled for additional
maintenance purposes.
.LP
\(em
Principles that apply for MEs apply also for MEAs.
.LP
\(em
An MEA may detect failures and maintenance event
information which can not be detected by MEs.
.LP
\(em
An MEA may provide end\(hyto\(hyend maintenance alarm
information which can not be provided by MEs.
.PP
End\(hyto\(hyend information may be collected by using additional
supervision means.
.bp
.sp 1P
.LP
3.1.4
\fIDefintion of\fR
\fIMaintenance Sub\(hyEntity\fR \fI(MSE)\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
A maintenance sub\(hyentity is defined by the following
principles:
.RT
.LP
\(em
The different parts of an MSE constituting the MEs are
interconnected at consecutive and easily identifiable interface
points.
.LP
\(em
When a failure occurs within an MSE, it is desirable that
the maintenance alarm information indication appears at the
failed maintenance entity containing the MSE.
.LP
\(em
An failed MSE should be identified as failed by the fault
location process, but should lead only to the identification
of the failed ME by the supervision process.
.LP
\(em
An MSE generally corresponds to the item which is
replaceable during routine operations in the event of a
failure.
.PP
3.1.5
The choice of ME, MEA and MSE should be compatible with the
maintenance organization of an Administration (Recommendations\ M.710, M.715
to\ M.725).
.sp 9p
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.1.6
\fIRelationship between Maintenance Entities and Network Elements\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The relationship between maintenance entities and network elements is defined
in Recommendation\ M.30.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2
\fIFailure concepts\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The following definitions and classifications are used in
developing the concept of a failure.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.1
\fIAnomalies\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
An anomaly is a discrepancy between the actual and desired
characteristics of an item.
.PP
The desired characteristic may be expressed in the form of a
specification.
.PP
An anomaly may or may not affect the ability of an item to perform a required
function.
.PP
As an example, for a multiplexer one type of elementary information
that can be detected is an error in the frame alignment word. This elementary
information is an anomaly. More examples of anomalies are given in
Recommendation\ M.550.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.2
\fIDefects\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
A defect is a limited interruption in the ability of an item to
perform a required function. It may or may not lead to maintenance action
depending on the results of additional analysis.
.PP
Successive anomalies causing a decrease in the ability of an item to perform
a required function are considered as a defect.
.PP
As an example, the G.700 [3] series recommends that three consecutive errored
frame alignment words will give a loss of frame alignment. This loss of
frame alignment is a defect. More examples of defects are given in
Recommendation\ M.550.
.PP
The process of using anomalies and defects is explained in
\(sc\ 3.3.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.3
\fIFailures\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
A failure is the termination of the ability of an item to perform a required
function.
.PP
Analysis of successive anomalies or defects affecting the same item
can lead to the item being considered as \*Qfailed\*U.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.3.1
\fIClassification of failures\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The severity of the failure depends on the failure effect. This
effect can be related to:
.RT
.LP
\(em
the network service performance requirements as
experienced by the subscribers;
.LP
\(em
the probability that multiple failures will occur, thus
resulting in a deteriorating performance as seen by the
customer;
.LP
\(em
the probable loss of revenue to the Administration.
.bp
.PP
The failures can be classified according to their importance and consequences
to the quality of service provided to the subscribers and to the network
technical performance:
.LP
\(em
failures which result in complete interruption of service(s)
for one or several subscribers;
.LP
\(em
failures which result in partial interruption of service(s)
(e.g.\ degradation of transmission quality) to one or several
subscribers;
.LP
\(em
failures which decrease the availability performance of
the equipment and/or the network but do not affect the
subscribers.
.LP
\(em
A failure can be either a permanent or intermittent
condition and this may alter its effect on the network.
.LP
\(em
The severity of a failure can be determined by measuring the
down time, up time and failure rate of the ME. These items are
defined in Supplement No.\ 6 to Fascicle\ II.3\ [4].
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.4
\fIFault\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
A fault is the inability of an item to perform a required function, excluding
that inability due to preventive maintenance, lack of external
resources or planned actions.
.PP
\fINote\fR \ \(em\ A fault is often the result of a failure of the item
itself, but may exist without prior failure.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.3
\fINetwork supervision\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Network supervision is a process in which the anomalies and defects detected
by the maintenance entities ME or MEA are analyzed and checked. This analysis
may be internal or external to the entity. In the external case it can
be accomplished either locally or on a centralized basis.
.PP
For maintenance, this supervision process has to include the following actions:
.RT
.LP
a)
Locating \*Qfailed\*U equipment, or the equipment in which a
fault is suspected or a failure is believed to be imminent. It
is generally carried out by analytical or statistical
identification processes. The supervision process consists of
three continuously running concurrent processes:
.LP
\(em
the supervisory process for anomalies (short period),
.LP
\(em
the defect supervisory process (medium period), and
.LP
\(em
the malfunction supervisory process (long period).
.LP
Each process is interfaced by the characteristic data,
e.g.\ accumulated anomaly data and accumulated defect data. The
supervisory processes for anomalies and defects respectively,
indicate that the anomaly or defect states have been reached.
The malfunction supervisory process evaluates the performance
level of the maintenance entity and judges it to be normal,
degraded or unacceptable. These levels are determined from the
anomalies and defects received and analyzed over a given time.
The thresholds limiting degraded or unacceptable performance
limits and the process period are defined for each defect and
confirmed fault or group of anomalies and defects and also for
each type of entity. Indications of degraded and unacceptable
performance levels are generated each time the corresponding
threshold is exceeded. This process is shown in Figure\ 5/M.20.
.LP
b)
Reporting of failures to maintenance personnel.
.LP
c)
Transmission of data to the maintenance personnel,
relating to specific functional features of the network
(traffic, state of equipment, particular malfunctions,\ etc.).
This information can be transmitted systematically or on
demand.
.LP
d)
Protecting the system by transmitting to all concerned
network equipment the necessary information for automatic
initialization of internal or external protection mechanisms,
e.g.,\ reconfiguration, traffic rerouting,\ etc.
.LP
e)
Modify the supervision process due to:
.LP
\(em
the type of service being offered over a given
portion of the network;
.LP
\(em
the time of day.
.bp
.LP
.rs
.sp 47P
.ad r
\fBFigure 5/M.20, p.\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.LP
.bp
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB4\fR \fBBringing new international transmission systems and circuits\fR
\fBinto service\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
4.1
\fIInstallation and acceptance testing\fR
.FS
Installation and
acceptance testing is not generally considered part of maintenance.
.FE
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
For new systems, this work may include the necessary installation of new
equipment. Once the new equipment is working, the Administration should
make the necessary tests to ensure the new system meets required
specifications. Acceptance testing of the new system or equipments should be
based on policies established by the Administration. However, Administrations
may wish to use the performances monitoring techniques found in
Recommendation\ M.24 to aid in their acceptance testing of new transmission
systems.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
4.2
\fISetting\(hyup and lining\(hyup\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
As soon as Administrations have decided to bring a new
international transmission system and/or circuit into service, the necessary
contacts are made between their technical service for the exchange of
information. Those services jointly select the control and sub\(hycontrol
stations for the new system or circuit (see Recommendations\ M.80 and\
M.90).
.PP
The technical service of each Administration is responsible for the
setting\(hyup and lining\(hyup of the line or circuit sections in its territory,
and for arranging that the adjustments and tests required are made by the
station staff concerned.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
4.3
\fIDetailed considerations\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
To set\(hyup a line section or circuit which crosses a frontier,
Administrations should arrive at bilateral agreements on the basis of CCITT
Recommendations and, for radio\(hyrelay sections, the Recommendations of
the CCIR. Administrations should refer to the following Recommendations
for detailed
considerations associated with bringing into service the following
entities:
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
4.3.1
\fINew transmission systems\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
CCITT Volume IV, \(sc\ 2.3, Recommendations M.450 through M.480 and
M.24.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
4.3.2
\fITelephone circuits\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
CCITT Volume IV, \(sc\ 3.1, Recommendations M.570 through M.590.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
4.3.3
\fICommon channel signalling systems\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
CCITT Volume IV, \(sc\ 4, Recommendations M.761 and M.782.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
4.4
\fIBringing into service\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
After the control station has determined from reports provided by the subcontrol
station that appropriate tests and adjustments have been
performed, the control station conducts overall tests of the system or
circuit. The overall tests results are recorded, operations systems data
bases are
updated and synchronized between Administrations, and the system and/or
circuits are placed in service. At this time the system and/or circuits are
transferred to a performance measuring state (see \(sc\ 5.1) to track and
insure
their continuing proper operation.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB5\fR \fBMaintenance phases under normal and fault conditions\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
Under normal conditions in the network, performance information
should be gathered from MEs on a continuous or periodic basis. This data
can be used to detect acute fault conditions which generate alarm reports.
Further
analysis may reveal subtle degradations which generate maintenance information
reports.
.PP
After the occurrence of a failure in the network, a number of
maintenance phases are required to correct the fault and to protect, when
possible, the traffic affected by the fault if it has been interrupted.
.PP
As an example, Figure 6/M.20 lists the maintenance phases which are
involved before and after a failure occurrence in a maintenance entity (ME).
The parameters determining the different phases are indicated in the figure.
It is intended to characterize different maintenance strategies with the
aid of
the maintenance phases. The mechanics used to implement the various maintenance
processes should be defined in connection with each specific application
in the relevant Recommendations. The maintenance phases are described below
in more
detail.
.bp
.RT
.LP
.rs
.sp 47P
.ad r
\fBFigure 6/M.20, p.\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.LP
.bp
.sp 1P
.LP
5.1
\fIPerformance measuring\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Different types of performance measuring mechanisms can be
used:
.RT
.LP
a)
continuous checking,
.LP
b)
routine or periodic testing,
.LP
c)
checking of behavior in live traffic,
.LP
d)
checking of behavior in the absence of live traffic.
.PP
The rules governing the measurement mechanisms are defined when
conceiving the systems; no intervention of the maintenance personnel is
necessary. Under some conditions, however, the personnel can control some
operations which may prove necessary for periodic or casual checking,
such as:
.LP
\(em
modifying the priority level of a checking process;
.LP
\(em
modifying the nominal period in the case of periodical
checking;
.LP
\(em
carrying out some partial or recurrent checks
(e.g. test on demand).
.PP
The choice of a measurement mechanism depends on the requirements for the
\*Qquality of service\*U as seen by the subscribers, and on the technical
network performance and the nature of the equipment. In addition, several
mechanisms may be operated in the same item of equipment.
.PP
Typical measurement mechanisms are listed below.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.1.1
\fIContinuous checking\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
All the time an item is active, it is being checked for good
performance. If the item does not fulfill the test requirements, it is
considered to have failed.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.1.2
\fIRoutine or periodic testing\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Items are tested periodically, initiated either by the system or by the
maintenance staff.
.PP
The frequency of the test depends on the importance of the item, the failure
rate and the number of items of that type present in the element.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.1.3
\fIChecking in live traffic\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Checking behavior in live traffic can be done directly or
statistically.
.PP
This checking exists if the ME itself indicates a failed performance or
the continuous detection of anomalies or defects.
.PP
All of the elementary information from the different detectors is
either retransmitted by each entity to a processing unit or processed locally.
.PP
Performance parameters are derived from this information.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.1.3.1
\fIProcessing of performance parameters\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Some performance parameters in use are Errored Seconds (ES),
Severely Errored Seconds (SES) and Degraded Minutes (DM). These particular
parameters are defined in Recommendation\ G.821\ [5].
.PP
Each of the performance parameters (e.g., ES, SES, DM) is to be
processed separately in order to evaluate the performance level of the
entity's operation.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.1.3.2
\fIEvaluation of unacceptable performance\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Unacceptable performance
is characterized by a significant and long\(hylasting degradation in quality.
It can be associated with the failed state.
.PP
It is ascertained by statistical analysis of each of the performance parameters
individually, throughout a given time T1.
.PP
As soon as the result of statistical analysis reaches a N1 threshold (defined
for each entity individually), the entity is declared to be at an
unacceptable level of performance.
.PP
Elsewhere, for each defect corresponding to an interruption, lasting \fIx\fR
consecutive seconds, the entity is considered as having reached an
unacceptable level.
.bp
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.1.3.3
\fIEvaluation of degraded performance\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Each of the performance parameters is analyzed statistically over a time
T2 which can be a relatively long period.
.PP
As soon as the result of statistical analysis reaches a N2 threshold (to
be defined), the entity can be considered to be at degraded performance.
The time T2 will depend on the entity in question.
.PP
This checking leads to maintenance decisions on statistical
grounds:
.RT
.LP
\(em
the number of times in which the item performs its
function \*Qnormally\*U is compared with the number of times the
performance of the item does not fulfill the requirements;
.LP
\(em
the average time of functioning is compared with standard
values;
.LP
\(em
the number of times an item performs its function during a
certain period is compared to normal values.
.PP
If the degraded performance level is characterized by a gradual
degradation in quality, the maintenance personnel should be informed before
this decrease in performance becomes unacceptable to the user.
.sp 1P
.LP
5.1.4
\fIChecking in the absence of live traffic\fR \fI(traffic\fR
\fIis zero)\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Checking of system internal functions is done once a process is
over, or when a process has been initiated several times. Examples are
operational checks which start when a customer initiates an action to use
the network.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.2
\fIFailure detection\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Failures should be discovered by the Administration independently of, and
preferably before, the subscriber, i.e., the majority of failures are both
detected and remedied without the subscriber having been aware of them.
.PP
Failures are classified depending on their nature (see \(sc 3.2) and may
be categorized depending on their severity. Corresponding maintenance alarm
information is then passed on to the appropriate entities.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.3
\fISystem protection\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
When a failure has occurred or performance has degraded, the
following functions must be performed:
.RT
.LP
\(em
as a result of the medium and longer period supervision
process a signal must be transmitted to all the concerned
network equipment of any necessary information for automatic
(preferred) initialization of internal or external protection
mechanisms, e.g.,\ reconfiguration, traffic rerouting,\ etc.;
.LP
\(em
decision on any necessary actions, e.g. putting an item
\*Qout of service\*U or \*Qin testing condition\*U, changing to a
configuration with minimal or degraded service.
.PP
A specific protection method is recommended for transmission
systems using manual or automatic restoration on a maintenance entity
basis:
.LP
a)
If a failure occurs either in maintenance entities without
automatic changeover capabilities or with automatic changeover
capabilities but no standby available, the following actions
should be executed:
.LP
1)
initiate maintenance alarm information identifying
the maintenance entity containing the failed equipment;
.LP
2)
transmit an alarm indication signal (AIS) in
the direction affected (downstream direction) or give an
upstream failure indication (UFI) at equipment which
has not failed;
.LP
3)
initiate a service alarm indication at the appropriate
entities, e.g.\ primary PCM multiplex or digital switch
interfaces. (As a consequence the circuits may be removed
from service.)
.LP
b)
If a failure occurs in a maintenance entity having automatic
changeover capability with a standby available, the following
actions should be automatically executed:
.LP
1)
changeover to the standby;
.LP
\fINote\fR \ \(em\ Whether or not connections are released as a
result of automatic changeover depends on the service
performance objectives assigned to each maintenance
entity.
.LP
2)
initiate maintenance alarm information indicating
the maintenance entity containing the failed
equipment.
.bp
.sp 1P
.LP
5.4
\fIFailure or performance information\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Information on failure, unacceptable performance or degraded
performance will normally be transmitted to the maintenance staff and other
parts of the network notified when appropriate.
.PP
Information for the use of personnel is available either in the
entity, when the processing of anomalies or defects is internal, or via
a unit which provides processing, when external to the entity.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.4.1
\fIAlarm information categories\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The following maintenance alarm information may be associated with the
information of failure or unacceptable or degraded performance:
.RT
.LP
a)
\fIPrompt maintenance alarm (PMA)\fR
.LP
A prompt maintenance alarm is generated in order to
initiate maintenance activities (normally immediately) by
maintenance personnel to remove from service a defective
equipment for the purpose of restoring good service and
effecting repair of the failed equipment.
.LP
b)
\fIDeferred maintenance alarm (DMA)\fR
.LP
A deferred maintenance alarm is generated when immediate
action is not required by maintenance personnel, e.g.\ when
performance falls below standard but the effect does not
warrant removal from service, or generally if automatic
changeover to standby equipment has been used to restore
service.
.LP
c)
\fIMaintenance event information (MEI)\fR
.LP
This information has to be generated as a consequence of
events when no immediate actions by the maintenance staff are
required because the total performance is not endangered. The
maintenance actions can be performed on a scheduled basis or
after the accumulation of maintenance event information
indications.
.PP
Starting with the malfunction supervisory process from
Figure\ 5/M.20, Figure\ 7/M.20 shows the alarm informtion process for an
ME. The actual PMA, DMA or MEI may or may not be generated in the ME. When
generated
outside the ME, the alarm information process may combine information from
other sources (e.g.,\ other MEs, time of day, traffic load,\ etc.) with the
output from the malfunction supervisory process to decide if a PMA, DMA or
MEI should be generated. When an AIS or UFI is received, an ME may be required
to generate an SA.
.PP
Both the malfunction supervisory process and the alarm information
process, including the use of PMAs, DMAs and MEIs, can also be applied
to other non\(hytelecommunications equipment.
.RT
.LP
.rs
.sp 22P
.ad r
\fBFigure 7/M.20, p.\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.LP
.bp
.sp 1P
.LP
5.4.2
\fIOther fault and service indications\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
In order to avoid unnecessary maintenance actions and to signal the unavailability
of the service, the following fault indications are
used:
.RT
.LP
\(em
Alarm indication signal (AIS)
.LP
An alarm indication signal (AIS) is a signal associated
with a defective maintenance entity and is, when
possible, transmitted in the direction affected (downstream
direction) as a substitute for the normal signal, indicating to
other nondefective entities that a failure has been identified
and that other maintenance alarms consequent to this failure
should be inhibited. The binary equivalent of the AIS
corresponds to an all 1s\ signal.
.LP
\fINote\ 1\fR \ \(em\ The AIS is different from the \*Qalarm
information to the remote end\*U; see \(sc\ 5.4.4.
.LP
\fINote\ 2\fR \ \(em\ The AIS capability does not impose any
restrictions on the binary content of signals which may be
transmitted over the digital hierarchy at the primary multiplex
and higher levels. The implications at the 64\(hykbit/s level and
at lower bit rates are under study, since ambiguity arises
between AIS and an all\ 1s information signal.
.LP
\fINote\ 3\fR \ \(em\ For a maintenance entity with multidestination
ends (e.g. in networks with TDMA/DSI satellite systems) alarm
indication signals on a circuit basis may useful. This subject
is under study.
.LP
\fINote\ 4\fR \ \(em\ In the particular case of the 44 736 kbit/s
hierarchical level, the AIS is defined as a signal:
.LP
i)
with a valid frame alignment signal, parity and
justification control bits as defined in Table\ 2/G.752\ [6];
.LP
ii)
with the tributary bits being set to a 1010 | | |
sequence, starting with a binary one (\*Q1\*U) after each frame
alignment, multiframe alignment and justification control bit;
.LP
iii)
and with all justification control bits being set to
binary zero (\*Q0\*U).
.LP
Demultiplexers of the 44 | 36 kbit/s hierarchical level must
produce the all 1s AIS at their tributary outputs when they
receive the 44 | 36\ kbit/s AIS at their high speed inputs.
.LP
\(em
Service alarm (SA)
.LP
A service alarm is generated at maintenance entities at
which the service originates and/or terminates to indicate that
the particular service is no longer available (e.g.\ when a
primary block is no longer available for setting up connections,
the PCM muldex will extend a service alarm indication to the
exchange equipment).
.LP
The service alarm should be generated when performance falls
below a level specified for a particular service. This level may
coincide with that for initiating also a prompt maintenance
alarm.
.LP
\(em
Upstream failure indication (UFI)
.LP
The upstream failure indication given by a
maintenance entity indicates that the signal arriving at that
maintenance entity is defective. The UFI indicates that the
failure has occurred upstream of this point, and no unnecessary
maintenance activities are initiated.
.LP
The appearance of an alarm indicates either a fault in the
equipment generating the alarm or a failure of the incoming
signal (an upstream failure). To distinguish between these two
possibilities it is necessary to provide an independent test,
either of the input signal, or of the equipment generating the
alarm. The input signal can be checked for proper parity,
for example, by a monitor included in the protection switching
equipment. A defective input signal indicates an upstream
failure. Alternatively, the equipment generating the alarm can
be tested independently, by looping, for example, and if the
equipment operates correctly, an upstream failure is
indicated.
.PP
\fINote\fR \ \(em\ For a multiple destination maintenance entity (e.g. in
networks with TDMA/DSI satellite systems) alarm indication signals on a
circuit basis may be useful. This subject is under study.
.sp 1P
.LP
5.4.3
\fITransmission and presentation of alarm information\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The failure information at the alarm interface is used to determine the
faulty ME or part of ME. The information can be presented either locally,
or remotely via an alarm collection system.
.PP
The alarms may be presented as:
.RT
.LP
\(em
an indication at an alarm interface (e.g.\ contact function,
d.c. signal)
.LP
\(em
an alarm message on the man\(hymachine interface.
.bp
.sp 1P
.LP
5.4.4
\fIAlarm information to the remote end\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Equipment which is a source of digital multiple signals (i.e.
multiple equipment or exchanges) may, in case of a fault condition, transmit
alarm information within a specified bit or specified bits of the pulse
frame. This information is intended for evaluation at the remote terminal
(at the end of the digital link). Examples: see Recommendation\ G.704,
\(sc\ 2.3.2\ [7], Recommendation\ G.732, \(sc\ 4.2.3\ [8] and Recommendation\
G.733, \(sc\ 4.2.4\ [9].
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.5
\fIFault localication\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Where the initial failure information is insufficient for fault
localization within a failing ME, it has to be augmented with information
obtained by additional fault localization routines. The routines can employ
ME internal or external test systems, initiated manually or automatically,
at the local and/or remote end.
.PP
A test system, serving one or more MEs could have the following
functions:
.RT
.LP
\(em
alarm collection, e.g.\ by sampling of alarm interfaces and
assembling of alarm messages;
.LP
\(em
request for failure information, e.g.\ by addressing
different MEs;
.LP
\(em
test programs, e.g.\ for selection of essential alarms,
editing, etc.;
.LP
\(em
control of special devices, e.g.\ for looping measurement of
electrical characteristics;
.LP
\(em
display of results, e.g.\ for all MEs within a
network region.
.PP
It should be particularly noted that:
.LP
\(em
the corrective maintenance action time and the activity of
repair centres (these repair centres may receive unfailed items
or sub\(hyitems) are strongly conditioned by the localization
efficiency (not yet defined);
.LP
\(em
if an ME can be subdivided into MSEs, the faulty MSE should be identified
as failed in the fault localization process;
.LP
\(em
for interchangeable items, the failed item must be identified uniquely.
.sp 2P
.LP
5.6
\fILogistic delay\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
5.6.1
The logistic delay is the period of time between the
fault localization and arrival of the maintenance staff of site. In the case
of an ISDN, the logistic delay will depend on the type of failures and how
they are reported, i.e.\ by PMA, DMA or\ MEI.
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
5.6.2
Following a PMA or DMA alarm, fault correction will be
performed normally in the course of a specific trip of the maintenance
staff. The logistic delay may vary from a few hours in the case of PMA
alarms, to
a few days in the case of DMA alarms.
.PP
5.6.3
Following an MEI, which indicates that no immediate actions are
necessary, the maintenance action can be postponed until the next scheduled
maintenance visit unless an accumulation of MEIs demands earlier action.
.sp 1P
.LP
5.7
\fIFault correction\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Fault correction normally requires change or repair of an ME, MSE or a
part thereof. One or more fault corrections can be performed in the course
of a maintenance visit. It is desirable that strategies be developed to
accomplish fault correction satisfying overall maintenance objectives with a
minimum number of visits, using the concept of logistic delay.
.PP
Failed interchangeable items will be sent to a specialized repair
centre, where appropriate test equipment is available (the system itself
should not act as a test machine).
.PP
Normally, cooperation between maintenance elements in different
Administrations will result in the satisfactory identification and correction
of faults. There may be circumstances, however, where the fault escalation
procedure defined in Recommendation\ M.711 may be required.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.8
\fIVerification\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
After the fault has been corrected, checks must be made to assure the ME
is working properly. The verification can be made locally or
remotely.
.bp
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.9
\fIRestoration\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The corrected part of the ME or MSE is restored to service. Blocked MEs
are deblocked and changeover to spare may be terminated.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB6\fR \fBAdditional maintenance activities\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
Besides the above\(hymentioned phases, the following activities may be
required.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
6.1
\fIMaintenance support\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Maintenance support covers the functions identified below:
.RT
.LP
\(em
management of information of network equipment in operation,
.LP
\(em
management of operating data (routing data mainly),
.LP
\(em
correction instruction for hardware and software,
.LP
\(em
repairing of removable items,
.LP
\(em
management of maintenance stocks,
.LP
\(em
network and equipment documentation.
.PP
The quantity of spare parts held depends on:
.LP
\(em
organization of maintenance entities,
.LP
\(em
failure rate of an item,
.LP
\(em
turn around time (actual repair time, transport),
.LP
\(em
number of items in operation,
.LP
\(em
risk that no spare part is available.
.sp 1P
.LP
6.2
\fIFailure statistics\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
If all failures are recorded, this information, after processing, can serve
the following organizational fields:
.RT
.LP
a)
management, e.g.\ evaluating system performance,
.LP
b)
organization of maintenance, e.g.\ use of test equipment,
subscriber complaints versus test results, amount of spare parts,
.LP
c)
maintenance activities, e.g. identifying weak components
where preventive maintenance actions are necessary.
.sp 1P
.LP
6.3
\fIPreventive maintenance actions\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Mechanical parts (such as magnetic equipment heads) have to be
cared for periodically.
.PP
After analyzing failure statistics, decisions can be made to
interchange items even before failures have occurred, if they seem to be
weak items.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB7\fR \fBOther maintenance considerations\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
7.1
\fIReference test frequency considerations\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
(Under study.)
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
7.2
\fIUse of maintenance test lines and loop\(hybacks\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
(Under study.)
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fBReferences\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.LP
[1]
CCITT Recommendation \fISpecification for CCITT automatic transmission\fR
\fImeasuring and signalling testing equipment ATME No. 2\fR , Vol.\ IV,
Rec.\ O.22.
.LP
[2]
CCITT Supplement \fINew operation and maintenance organization in the\fR
\fIMilan Italcable Intercontinental telecommunication centre\fR , Vol.\ IV,
Supplement No.\ 6.2.
.LP
[3]
CCITT Recommendations of the G.700 Series \fIDigital networks\fR ,
Vol.\ III, Rec.\ G.700 to\ G.956.
.LP
[4]
CCITT Supplement \fITerms and definitions for quality of service,\fR
\fInetwork performance, dependability and trafficability studies\fR ,
Vol.\ II, Fascicle\ II.3, Supplement No.\ 6.
.bp
.LP
[5]
CCITT Recommendation \fIError performance on an international digital\fR
\fIconnection forming part of an integrated services digital network\fR ,
Vol.\ III, Rec.\ G.821.
.LP
[6]
CCITT Recommendation \fICharacteristics of digital multiplex equipments\fR
\fIbased on a second order bit rate of 6312\ kbit/s and using positive\fR
\fIjustification\fR , Vol.\ III, Rec.\ G.752.
.LP
[7]
CCITT Recommendation \fIFunctional characteristics of interfaces\fR
\fIassociated with network nodes\fR , Vol.\ III, Rec.\ G.704.
.LP
[8]
CCITT Recommendation \fICharacteristics of primary PCM multiplex\fR
\fIequipment operating at 2048\ kbit/s\fR , Vol.\ III, Rec.\ G.732.
.LP
[9]
CCITT Recommendation \fICharacteristics of primary PCM multiplex\fR
\fIequipment operating at 1544\ kbit/s\fR , Vol.\ III, Rec.\ G.733.
\v'1P'
.sp 2P
.LP
\fBRecommendation\ M.21\fR
.RT
.sp 2P
.ce 1000
\fBPRINCIPLES\ FOR\ MAINTENANCE\ PHILOSOPHY\ AND\ CONSIDERATIONS\fR
.EF '% Fascicle\ IV.1\ \(em\ Rec.\ M.21''
.OF '''Fascicle\ IV.1\ \(em\ Rec.\ M.21 %'
.ce 0
.sp 1P
.ce 1000
\fBFOR\ MAINTENANCE\ STRATEGY\ FOR |
TELECOMMUNICATION\ SERVICES\fR
.FS
It is intended that
the subject matters contained in this Recommendation
will be studied and developed further as the results of the
work done in other Study Groups on Quality of Service concepts
become available.
.FE
.ce 0
.sp 1P
.LP
\fB1\fR \fBIntroduction\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
The purpose of this Recommendation is to provide principles for a maintenance
philosophy which can be applied to all telecommunication services, and
from which a common strategy can be derived.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB2\fR \fBQuality of Service\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
An important concept in the consideration of a maintenance
philosophy is that of Quality of Service (QOS).
.PP
This is defined in Recommendation E.800 [1] as \*Qthe collective effect
of service performances which determine the degree of satisfaction of a
user
service\*U.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB3\fR \fBQuality of Service factors\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
QOS comprises a number of Quality of Service factors or
performances
which are enumerated and defined in Recommendation\ E.800\ [1] and listed
below. Some of these comprise further factors.
.PP
They are illustrated in Figure\ 1/M.21 which is taken from
Recommendation\ E.800\ [1].
.RT
.LP
i)
service support performance;
.LP
ii)
service operability performance;
.LP
iii)
serveability performance;
.LP
iv)
service accessibility performance;
.LP
v)
service retainability performance;
.LP
vi)
service integrity;
.LP
vii)
transmission performance;
.LP
viii)
trafficability performance;
.LP
ix)
propagation performance;
.LP
x)
availability (performance);
.LP
xi)
reliability (performance);
.LP
xii)
maintainability (performance);
.LP
xiii)
maintenance support (performance).
.bp
.LP
.rs
.sp 28P
.ad r
\fBFigure 1/M.21, p.\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB4\fR \fBRelationship between Quality of Service factors which are
relevant in maintenance\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
Figure 1/M.21 indicates the relationship between the availability performance
of individual items (e.g.,\ terminal equipment, networks,\ etc.)
which are used in the operation of a service and the serveability performance
of that service. This relationship is such that, given satisfactory
trafficability and propagation performances, then the availabiity performance
of each item is the means by which satisfactory serveability of a service
is
obtained.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB5\fR \fBPrinciples of\fR
\fBmaintenance philosophy for telecommunication\fR \fBservice\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
5.1
Serveability performance of a service should be completely and precisely
defined, in terms of parameters to be taken into consideration and
performance objectives, tolerances and conditions for these parameters.
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
5.2
Performance objectives of items used for services should be
considered with reference to the serveability performance of these services.
.PP
5.3
In the case where an item is shared by services, then its
performance objectives should be such as to enable the service with the most
stringent serveability requirement to meet this, given that trafficability
and propagation performance are satisfactory.
.PP
5.4
Maintenance arrangements for a service should be such that all
Quality of Service factors which are relevant to maintenance are satisfactory.
.PP
5.5
As factors other than those of Quality of Service (maintenance and operation
costs, durability of equipments,\ etc.) and a large variety of
networks and services need to be taken into consideration when organizing
maintenance, arrangements for maintenance of a service should be defined
as far as possible within a common and global approach.
.bp
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB6\fR \fBMaintenance considerations for new telecommunication\fR
\fBservices\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
6.1
When a new service is to be introduced, early consideration
should be given to its operational and maintenance requirements. In practice,
these will depend on its Quality of Service objectives and therefore on
the
performance parameter objectives which are set for each item which is used
for operating the service (e.g.,\ terminal equipment, network,\ etc.).
Thus each item should be considered individually.
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
6.2
If such an item is unique to a service, there will be new
operational and maintenance requirements.
.PP
6.3
If such an item is not unique to a service and it is already used in providing
an existing service, then consideration should be given to whether the
existing operational and maintenance requirements need to be changed. This
will depend on whether the performance parameter objectives are changed.
.PP
6.4
Operational and maintenance requirements should address the
following areas:
.LP
\(em
line\(hyup and provisioning procedures;
.LP
\(em
maintenance procedures, including those for fault prevention,
detection, reporting and localization;
.LP
\(em
restoration procedures;
.LP
\(em
restoration requirements (e.g., maximum permitted number of
restoration links in tandem, maximum permitted propagation
delay, maximum tolerable interruption duration, degree of
protection required);
.LP
\(em
serveability performance;
.LP
\(em
organization of operation and maintenance effort to deal
with the above\(hymentioned areas;
.LP
\(em
the interaction required between elements and centres of
operation and maintenance effort;
.LP
\(em
testing equipment and facilities for use within the
operation and maintenance organization;
.LP
\(em
the exchange of contact point information (as indicated in
Recommendation\ M.93);
.LP
\(em
maintenance limits for transmission performance
parameters.
.PP
6.5
Consideration should also be given to whether, in the provision and maintenance
of a service, these subject areas require inter\(hyadministration agreements
or the development of specific CCITT Recommendations.
.sp 9p
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fBReferences\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.LP
[1]
CCITT Recommendation \fIQuality of Service and dependability\fR
\fIvocabulary\fR , Vol.\ II, Rec.\ E.800.
\v'1P'
.sp 2P
.LP
|
\fBRecommendation\ M.30\fR
.RT
.sp 2P
.sp 1P
.ce 1000
\fBPRINCIPLES\ FOR\ A\ TELECOMMUNICATIONS\ MANAGEMENT\ NETWORK\fR
.EF '% Fascicle\ IV.1\ \(em\ Rec.\ M.30''
.OF '''Fascicle\ IV.1\ \(em\ Rec.\ M.30 %'
.ce 0
.sp 1P
.LP
\fB1\fR \fBGeneral\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
This Recommendation presents the general principles for planning, operating
and maintaining a Telecommunications Management Network (TMN). The purpose
of a TMN is to support Administrations in management of its
telecommunications network. A TMN provides a host of management functions to
the telecommunication network and offers communications between itself
and the telecommunication network. In this context a telecommunications
network is
assumed to consist of both digital and analogue telecommunications equipment
and associated support equipment.
.bp
.PP
The basic concept behind a TMN, therefore, is to provide an organized network
structure to achieve the interconnection of the various types of
Operations Systems (OSs) and telecommunications equipment using an agreed
upon architecture with standardized protocols and interfaces. This will
provide the telecommunication network Administrations and telecommunication
equipment manufacturers a set of standards to use when developing equipment
for and
designing a management network for modern telecommunication networks [including
their Integrated Services Digital Networks (ISDNs)].
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
1.1
\fIRelationships of a TMN to a telecommunication network\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
A TMN can vary in size from a very simple connection between an OS and
a single piece of telecommunication equipment to a massive network
interconnecting many different types of OSs and telecommunication equipment.
It may provide a host of management functions and offers communications
both
between the OSs and between OSs and the various parts of the telecommunication
network which consists of many types of digital and analogue telecommunication
equipment and associated support equipment, such as transmission systems,
switching systems, multiplexers, signalling terminals. Such equipment is
referred to generically as network elements (NEs).
.PP
Figure 1/M.30 shows the general relationship between a TMN and a
telecommunications network which it manages. Note that a TMN is conceptually
a separate network that interfaces a telecommunications network at several
different points to receive information from it and to control its operations.
However, a TMN may often use parts of the telecommunication network to
provide its communications.
.RT
.LP
.rs
.sp 32P
.ad r
\fBFigure 1/M.30, p.\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.LP
.bp
.sp 1P
.LP
1.2
\fIField of application\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The following are examples of the networks and major types of
equipment that may be managed over the TMN:
.RT
.LP
\(em
public and private networks, including ISDNs;
.LP
\(em
transmission terminals (multiplexers, cross connects,
channel translation equipment, etc.);
.LP
\(em
digital and analogue transmission systems (cable, fibre,
radio, satellite, etc.);
.LP
\(em
restoration systems;
.LP
\(em
digital and analogue exchanges;
.LP
\(em
circuit and packet switched networks;
.LP
\(em
signalling terminal and systems including signal transfer
points (STP) and real time data bases;
.LP
\(em
PBXs and customer terminals;
.LP
\(em
ISDN user terminals;
.LP
\(em
associated support systems (test modules, power systems, air conditioning
units, building alarms systems, etc.).
.PP
In addition, by the monitoring, testing or control of these
equipments, a TMN may be used to manage distributed entities such as circuits.
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB2\fR \fBTMN architecture and definitions\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
The following definitions for the TMN architecture are conceptual in nature
and are thus intended to be working definitions that cover the most common
and general cases. It should be recognized that, because of the
exceedingly complex nature of some telecommunications equipment and because
of the ability, using microprocessors, to distribute functionality within
various network parts, these definitions may not rigidly cover every possible
physical configuration that may be encountered. However, even these exceptions
are
expected to fit within the general TMN concept and to be covered by its
principles.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.1
\fITMN functional architecture\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
A TMN functionally provides the means to transport and process
information related to the management of telecommunication networks. As
shown in Figure\ 2/M.30, it is made up of operations system functions (OSFs),
mediation functions (MFs) and data communications functions (DCFs). The
function blocks provide the TMN general functions which enable a TMN to
perform the TMN application functions. A TMN is also connected to network
element
functions (NEFs) and workstation functions (WSFs).
.PP
Figure 2/M.30 shows the
function blocks of a TMN
. As shown,
all like reference points (q\ to\ q, f\ to\ f, and x\ to\ x) are connected
through
the facility of the DCF. The WSF may also be directly connected to the NEF
through a connection external to the TMN.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
2.1.1
\fIDefinition of function blocks\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.1.1.1
\fBoperations system function (OSF) block\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The OSF block processes information related to telecommunication management
to support and/or control the realization of various
telecommunication management functions. Details of the OSF are given
in\ \(sc\ 5.2.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.1.1.2
\fBmediation function (MF) block\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The MF block acts on information passing between NEFs and OSFs to achieve
smooth and efficient communication. Major MFs include communication
control, protocol conversion and data handling, communication of primitive
functions, processes involving decision making, and data storage. Details of
the MF are given in\ \(sc\ 5.4.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.1.1.3
\fBdata communications function (DCF) block\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The DCF block provides the means for data communication to
transport information related to telecommunications management between
function blocks. Details of the CDF are given in\ \(sc\ 5.3.
.bp
.RT
.LP
.rs
.sp 37P
.ad r
\fBFigure 2/M.30, p.\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.1.1.4
\fBnetwork element function (NEF) block\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The NEF block communicates with a TMN for the purpose of being
monitored and/or controlled. Details of the NEF are given in\ \(sc\ 5.5.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.1.1.5
\fBwork station function (WSF) block\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The WSF block provides means for communications among function
blocks (OSF, MF, DCF, NEF) and the user. Details of the WSF are given
in\ \(sc\ 5.6.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.1.2
\fIDefinitions of reference points\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The following reference points define conceptual points of
information exchange between non\(hyoverlapping function blocks. A reference
point becomes an interface when the connected function blocks are embodied
in
separate pieces of equipment.
.bp
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.1.2.1
\fBq reference points\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The q reference points connect the function blocks NEF to MF, MF to MF,
MF to OSF and OSF to OSF either directly or via the DCF. Within the class
of q reference points the following distinctions are made:
.RT
.LP
q\d1\u:
the q\d1\ureference points connect NEF to MF either
directly or via the DCF;
.LP
q\d2\u:
the q\d2\ureference points connect MF to MF either
directly or via the DCF;
.LP
q\d3\u:
the q\d3\ureference points connect MF to OSF and OSF to OSF either directly
or via the DCF.
.sp 1P
.LP
2.1.2.2
\fBf reference points\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The f reference points connect function blocks OSF, MF, NEF, DCF to the WSF.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.1.2.3
\fBg reference points\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The g reference points are points between the WSF and the
user.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.1.2.4
\fBx reference points\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The x reference points connect a TMN to other management type
networks including other TMNs.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.2
\fITMN physical architecture\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Figure 3/M.30 shows a generalized physical architecture for the
TMN.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.2.1
\fIDefinitions of the physical architecture\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
TMN functions can be implemented in a variety of physical
configurations. The following are the definitions for consideration of
implementation schemes.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.2.1.1
\fBoperations system (OS)\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The OS is the stand alone system which performs OSFs.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.2.1.2
\fBmediation device (MD)\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The MD is the stand alone device which performs MFs. MDs can be
implemented as hierarchies of cascaded devices.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.2.1.3
\fBdata communications network\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The DCN is a communication network within a TMN which supports the DCF
at the reference point q\d3\u.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.2.1.4
\fBlocal communication network (LCN)\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The LCN is a communication network within a TMN which supports the DCF
normally at the reference points q\d1\uand q\d2\u.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.2.1.5
\fBnetwork element (NE)\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The NE is comprised of telecommunication equipment (or groups/parts of
telecommunication equipment) and support equipment that performs NEFs and
has one or more standard Q\(hytype interfaces.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.2.1.6
\fBworkstation (WS)\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The WS is the stand alone system which performs WSFs.
.bp
.RT
.LP
.rs
.sp 35P
.ad r
\fBFigure 3/M.30, p.\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.2.2
\fIDefinitions of the standard interfaces\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Standard interfaces are defined corresponding to the reference
points.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.2.2.1
\fBQ interface\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The Q interface is applied at q reference points. To provide
flexibility of implementation, the class of Q interfaces is made up of the
following three subclasses:
.RT
.LP
\(em
interface Q\d1\u, intended to connect NEs containing no MF to MDs or
to NEs containing MF via an LCN
.LP
\(em
interface Q\d2\u, intended to connect MDs to MDs, NEs
containing MF to MDs or to other NEs containing MF via an LCN
.LP
\(em
interface Q\d3\u, intended to connect MDs, NEs containing MF and OSs
to OSs via a DCN.
.PP
\fINote\ 1\fR \ \(em\ Applications different from primary applications are
not excluded when different functions are combined for implementation.
.PP
\fINote\ 2\fR \ \(em\ A higher numbered interface will generally use a more
sophisticated protocol than a lower numbered interface.
.bp
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.2.2.2
\fBF interface\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The F interface is applied at f reference points.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.2.2.3
\fBG interface\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The G interface is applied at the g reference point.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.2.2.4
\fBX interface\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The X interface is applied at the x reference point.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.3
\fITMN protocol families\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The Q interfaces as present on the DCN and the LCN determine
protocol families PQ\dD\u\dC\\dN\uand PQ\dL\\dC\\dN\u.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
2.3.1
\fIDefinitions of the TMN protocol families\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.3.1.1
\fBPQ\fR\(da\fBD\fR\(da\fBC\fR\(da\fBN\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
A family of protocol suites for use with the DCN applied to the
Q\d3\uinterface.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.3.1.2
\fBPQ\fR\(da\fBL\fR\(da\fBC\fR\(da\fBN\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
A family of protocol suites for use with the LCN, applied to the
Q\d1\uand Q\d2\uinterfaces.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
2.4
\fIConsideration of reference and physical configurations\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.4.1
\fIq\(hyclass considerations\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.4.1.1
\fIq\(hyclass reference configuration\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Figure 4/M.30 shows the q\(hyclass reference configuration
illustrating the q\d1\u, q\d2\uand q\d3\ureference points and the types of
functional blocks that can be connected to the reference points. Figure\
4a/M.30 shows the case with explicit DCF (with data communication functions
indicated). Since the DCF process preserves the information content, the
same reference
point appears on both sides of a DCF in the figure.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
2.4.1.2
\fIPhysical realization of the\fR
\fIreference configuration\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Figure 5/M.30 shows examples of the relationship of the physical
configurations to the reference configuration with DCFs not explicitly shown
(implicit DCF case). It illustrates combinations of physical interfaces
at the reference points q\d1\u, q\d2\uand q\d3\u. At reference points where
a physical interface appears, this is denoted with a capital\ Q.
.PP
Figure 5/M.30, case a), shows an NE physically connected via a Q\d1\uinterface
to an MD, two MDs interconnected with a Q\d2\uinterface and the top MD
connected with OS via the Q\d3\uinterface.
.PP
Figure 5/M.30, case b), shows an NE physically connected to an MD via a
Q\d1\uinterface. The MFs are merged into one MD which interfaces to the
OS
via a Q\d3\uinterface, (see also Note\ 1).
.PP
Figure 5/M.30, case c), shows an NE with an internal MF which is
interconnected to an MD via a Q\d2\uinterface. The MD is connected to the OS
via a Q\d3\uinterface.
.PP
Figure 5/M.30, case d), shows an NE with MFs directly connected to the
OS via a Q\d3\uinterface.
.bp
.PP
\fINote\ 1\fR \ \(em\ Where a reference point is shown in Figure\ 5/M.30 this
means that the point is inside a physical box. The designer is free to apply
any implementation. It is not necessary that this point is physically present
inside the equipment.
.PP
\fINote\ 2\fR \ \(em\ Any other equipment may be present between two adjacent
boxes, which is necessary for the connection of these boxes. This equipment
represents the DCF of Figure\ 2/M.30. Such equipments perform OSI network
functions and are not shown in Figure\ 5/M.30, e.g., the Q\d3\uinterface
normally connects to the DCN which provides the data communication to the
OS.
.RT
.LP
.rs
.sp 37P
.ad r
\fBFigure 4/M.30, p. 12\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.PP
Figure 6/M.30 shows the same examples of the relationship of the physical
configuration to the reference configuration as those given in
Figure\ 5/M.30, but with the DCFs explicitly shown (explicit DCF case).
It also shows different possible configurations that may be used for an
LCN (e.g.\ star, bus or ring).
.bp
.LP
.rs
.sp 47P
.ad r
\fBFigure 5/M.30, p.\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.LP
.bp
.LP
.rs
.sp 47P
.ad r
\fBFigure 6/M.30, p.\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.LP
.bp
.PP
Figure 7/M.30 shows examples, with the DCFs not explicitly shown, of a
special group of physical configurations in which NEs are cascaded to
provide a single interface to the higher order TMN equipment. This is
convenient for co\(hylocated NEs which generally contain different levels
of MF, e.g., transmission equipment co\(hylocated with an exchange.
.PP
Figure 7/M.30 case a), shows how an NE without an internal MF is
connected via a Q\d1\uinterface to an NE with an internal MF which itself
has a Q\d2\uinterface to an MD.
.PP
Figure 7/M.30 case b), shows how an NE with an internal MF is
connected via a Q\d2\uinterface to an NE with higher level MF, which itself
has a Q\d3\uinterface to OS.
.PP
Figure 7/M.30 case c), shows another possibility where an NE without an
internal MF has a Q\d1\uinterface to an NE with an internal MF which itself
has a Q\d3\uinterface to OS.
.RT
.PP
Figure 8/M.30 shows simplified examples of how NEs and MDs might be physically
cascaded to serve multiple NEs. The examples show the connections to the
OSs, but do not explicitly show the connections to the DCFs.
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB3\fR \fBFunctions associated with a TMN\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
The functions associated with a TMN can be split into two
parts:
.RT
.LP
\(em
TMN general functions provided by the function blocks defined in\ \(sc\
2.1; and
.LP
\(em
TMN application functions listed in\ \(sc\ 3.2;
.sp 1P
.LP
3.1
\fITMN general functions\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The TMN general functions provide support for the TMN application functions.
Examples of TMN general functions are:
.RT
.LP
\(em
transport, which provides for the movement of information
among TMN elements;
.LP
\(em
storage, which provides for holding information over
controlled amounts of time;
.LP
\(em
security, which provides control over access for reading or changing
information;
.LP
\(em
retrieval, which provides access to information;
.LP
\(em
processing, which provides for analysis and information
manipulation;
.LP
\(em
user terminal support which, provides for input/output of
information.
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2
\fITMN applications functions\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
A TMN is intended to support a wide variety of application
functions which cover the operations, administration, maintenance and
provisioning of a telecommunication network.
.PP
These four categories have a different meaning depending on the
organization of an Administration. Moreover, some of the information which
is exchanged over the TMN may be used in support of more than one management
category. Therefore, the classification of the information exchange within
the TMN is independent of the use that will be made of the information.
.PP
While it cannot claim to be complete, this section describes some of the
most important application functions in terms of the OSI management
categories, expanded to fit the need of a TMN.
.PP
The application functions have been classified in accordance with
fields of use into major management categories:
.RT
.LP
a)
performance management,
.LP
b)
fault (or maintenance) management,
.LP
c)
configuration management,
.LP
d)
accounting management,
.LP
e)
security management.
.PP
These allocations are provisional and subject to future review and rearrangement.
.PP
It should be noted that the functional configuration of the TMN will change
depending on the phases in the life cycle and the momentary status of
the related telecommunications equipment. Typical examples can be found
in the development of installation functions and testing functions, notably
when
utilizing movable support equipment.
.bp
.RT
.LP
.rs
.sp 27P
.ad r
\fBFigure 7/M.30, p.\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.LP
.rs
.sp 23P
.ad r
\fBFigure 8/M.30, p.\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.LP
.bp
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.1
\fIPerformance management\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Performance management provides functions to evaluate and report
upon the behaviour of telecom equipment and the effectiveness of the network
or network element. Its role is to gather statistical data for the purpose
of
monitoring and correcting the behaviour and effectiveness of the network,
network element or equipment and to aid in planning and analysis. As such,
it is carrying out the performance measuring phase of Recommendation\ M.20.
.PP
The following functionalities have been defined:
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.1.1
\fIPerformance monitoring functions\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Performance monitoring involves the continuous collection of data concerning
the performance of the NE. While acute fault conditions will be
detected by alarm surveillance methods, very low rate or intermittent error
conditions in multiple equipment units may interact resulting in poor service
quality. Performance monitoring is designed to measure the overall quality
on the monitored parameters in order to detect such deterioration. It may
also be designed to detect characteristic patterns before signal quality
has dropped
below an acceptable level.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.1.2
\fITraffic management and network management functions\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
A TMN collects traffic data from NEs and sends commands to NEs to reconfigure
the telecommunication network or modify its operation to adjust to extraordinary
traffic.
.PP
A TMN may request traffic data reports to be sent from NEs, or such a report
may be sent upon threshold triggering, or periodically, or on demand. At
any time the TMN may modify the current set of thresholds and/or periods
in the network.
.PP
Reports from the NE may consist of raw data which is processed in a
TMN, or the NE may be capable of carrying out analysis of the data before
the report is sent.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.1.3
\fIQuality of Service (QOS) observation functions\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
A TMN collects QOS data from NEs and supports the improvements in QOS.
The TMN may request QOS data reports to be sent from the NE, or such a
report may be sent automatically on a scheduled or threshold basis. At any
time, the TMN may modify the current schedule and/or thresholds. Reports
from the NE on QOS data may consist of raw data which is processed in a
TMN, or the NE may be capable of carrying out analysis of the data before
the report is
sent.
.PP
Quality of Service includes monitoring and recording of parameters
relating to;
.RT
.LP
\(em
connection establishment (e.g.\ call set up delays, successful and failed
call requests);
.LP
\(em
connection retention;
.LP
\(em
connection quality;
.LP
\(em
billing integrity;
.LP
\(em
keeping and examining of logs of system state histories;
.LP
\(em
cooperation with fault (or maintenance) management to
establish possible failure of a resource and with configuration management
to change routing and load control parameters/limits for links\ etc.;
.LP
\(em
initiation of test calls to monitor QOS parameters.
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.2
\fIFault (or maintenance) management\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Fault (or maintenance) management is a set of functions which
enables the detection, isolation and correction of abnormal operation of the
telecommunication network and its environment. It provides facilities for
the performance of the following maintenance phases from
Recomendation\ M.20,\ \(sc\ 5.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.2.1
\fIAlarm surveillance functions\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
A TMN provides the capability to monitor NE failures in near real time.
When such a failure occurs, an indication is made available by the NE.
Based on this, a TMN determines the nature and severity of the fault. For
example, it may determine the effect
.bp
.PP
of the fault on the services
supported by
the faulty equipment. This can be accomplished in either of two ways: a data
base within a TMN may serve to interpret binary alarm indications from
the NE, or if the NE has sufficient intelligence, it may transmit self\(hyexplanatory
messages to a TMN. The first method requires little of the NE beyond a basic
self\(hymonitoring capability. The second method requires additionally
that both the NE and a TMN support some type of message syntax which will
allow adequate description of fault conditions.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.2.2
\fIFault localization functions\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Where the initial failure information is insufficient for fault
localization it has to be augmented with information obtained by additional
failure localization routines. The routines can employ internal or external
test systems and can be controlled by a TMN (see Recommendation\ M.20).
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.2.3
\fITesting functions\fR \fI(requested, on demand, or as\fR
\fIa routine test)\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Testing can be carried out in one of two ways. In one case, a TMN directs
a given NE to carry out analysis of circuit or equipment
characteristics. Processing is executed entirely within the NE and the
results are automatically reported to the TMN, either immediately or on
a delayed
basis.
.PP
Another method is where the analysis is carried out within the TMN. In
this case, the TMN merely requests that the NE provide access to the circuit
or equipment of interest and no other messages are exchanged with the NE.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.3
\fIConfiguration management\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Configuration management provides functions to exercise control
over, identify, collect data from and provide data to NEs.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.3.1
\fIProvisioning functions\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Provisioning consists of procedures which are necessary to bring an equipment
into service, not including installation. Once the unit is ready for service,
the supporting programmes are initialized via the TMN. The state of
the unit, e.g., in service, out of service, stand\(hyby, reserved, and selected
parameters may also be controlled by provisioning functions.
.PP
Over the spectrum of network elements, the use of the provisioning
functions can vary widely. For small transmission elements, these functions
are used once and rarely again. Digital switching and cross\(hyconnect
equipment may require frequent use of these functions as circuits are put
up and
dropped.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.3.2
\fIStatus and control functions\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The TMN provides the capability to monitor and control certain
aspects of the NE on demand. Examples include checking or changing the
service state of an NE or one of its sub\(hyparts (in service, out of service,
stand\(hyby) and initiating diagnostics tests within the NE. Normally,
a status check is
provided in conjunction with each control function in order to verify that
the resulting action has taken place. When associated with failure conditions,
these functions are corrective in nature (e.g., service restoral).
.PP
Status and control functions can also be part of routine maintenance when
executed automatically or on a scheduled periodic basis. An example is
switching a channel out of service in order to perform routine diagnostic
tests.
.PP
A TMN will enable the exclusion of faulty equipment from operation and
as a result it may rearrange equipment or re\(hyroute traffic.
.PP
A TMN can enable the entry of a proposed configuration in order to
automatically analyze the feasibility of that design before implementing
it.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.3.3
\fIInstallation functions\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The TMN can support the installation of equipment which makes up
the telecommunication network. It covers also the extension or reduction
of a system. Some NEs call for the initial exchange of data between themselves
and the TMN. An example of another function is the installation of programs
into
NEs from data base systems within the TMN. In addition, administrative
data can be exchanged between NEs and the TMN.
.PP
Acceptance testing programmes can be done under control of, or
supported by, the TMN.
.PP
A detailed list of installation functions for an SPC\(hyexchange is
provided in Recommendation\ Z.331, \(sc\ 3.3\ [1].
.bp
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.4
\fIAccounting management\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Accounting management provides a set of functions which enables the use
of the network service to be measured and the costs for such use to be
determined. It provides facilities to:
.RT
.LP
\(em
collect accounting records,
.LP
\(em
set billing parameters for the usage of services.
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.4.1
\fIBilling functions\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
An OS within the TMN can collect data from NEs which is used to
determine charges to customer accounts. This type of function may need
extremely efficient and redundant data transport capabilities in order to
maintain records of billing activity. Often the processing must be carried
out in near real time for a large number of customers.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
3.2.5
\fISecurity management\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
(For further study.)
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB4\fR \fBPlanning and design considerations\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
A TMN should be designed such that it has the capability to
interface with several types of communications paths to ensure that a framework
is provided which is flexible enough to allow for the most efficient
communications between the NE and the TMN, work stations and the TMN, between
elements within the TMN or between TMNs. The basis for choosing the appropriate
interfaces however, should be the functions performed by the elements between
which the appropriate communications are performed.
.PP
The interface requirements are measured in terms of function
attributes that are required to provide the most efficient interface. The
following is a listing of the function attributes. This list is incomplete
and will be subject to further study.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
4.1
\fIFunctions attributes\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.LP
a)
\fIReliability\fR
.LP
The capability of the interface to ensure that data and
control is transferred such that integrity and security are maintained.
.LP
b)
\fIFrequency\fR
.LP
How often data is transferred across the interface
boundary.
.LP
c)
\fIQuantity\fR
.LP
The amount of data that is transferred across the interface during any
transaction.
.LP
d)
\fIPriority\fR
.LP
Indicates precedence to be given to data in case of
competition for network resources with other functions.
.LP
e)
\fIAvailability\fR
.LP
Determines the use of redundancy in the design of the
communications channels between interfacing elements.
.LP
f
)
\fIDelay\fR
.LP
Identifies the amount of buffering that may be tolerable
between interfacing elements. This also impacts communications channel
designs.
.PP
Annex C to this Recommendation provides a table of possible ranges for
these function attributes and provides a definition for each range
suggested.
.sp 1P
.LP
4.2
\fIFunctional characteristics\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Each major type of telecommunications equipment has functional
characteristic needs that can be used to describe the complexity of the
interface. There are, however, a basic group of TMN application functions
that cross all major types of telecommunications equipment. However, there
are also unique TMN application functions that are performed by specific
categories of major telecommunications equipment. Alarm surveillance is
an example of the
former, whereas billing information collection is an example of the latter.
.bp
.PP
Functional characteristics of the elements within a TMN, e.g.,\ OS,
DCN, MD also describe the complexity of interfaces between these elements.
Thus an identification of the functions performed by the elements within
a TMN are also important considerations in determining the appropriate
interfaces both
within the TMN and to the NEs.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
4.3
\fICritical\fR
\fIattributes\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Attribute values for a given function are generally consistent
across the network elements. When considering a single\ Q interface it is
important to identify the controlling attribute ranges for the design of the
interface. If there are conflicting attribute values for different functions
in a given network element, more than one interface may be needed.
.PP
Overall TMN attribute values for the interfacing of elements within
the TMN depend on the type and number of functions performed within these
elements. In this case the functions are not consistent across TMN elements,
but are controlled by the individual TMN design of an Administration.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
4.4
\fIProtocol selection\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
In many cases more than one PQ protocol suites will meet the
requirements for the network element or TMN element under consideration.
Care should be taken by the Administration to select the protocol suite
that
optimizes the relationship between the total cost to implement that protocol
suite and the data communications channels that carry the information across
the interface.
.PP
The subject of protocol selection methodology will require further
study in conjunction with other Study Groups.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
4.5
\fICommunications considerations\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
LCN and DCN architectures must be planned and designed to ensure
that their implementation provides appropriate degrees of availability and
network delay while minimizing cost. One must consider the selection of
communications architectures, e.g., star, multipoint, loop, tree. The
communications channels, e.g., dedicated lines, circuit switched networks
and packet networks used in providing the communications paths, also play
an
important role.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB5\fR \fBDetailed TMN architectural considerations\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.1
\fIGeneral\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The TMN architecture must provide a high degree of flexibility to meet
the various topological conditions of the network itself and the
organization of the Administrations. Examples of the topological conditions
are the physical distribution of the NEs, the number of NEs and the communication
volume of the NEs. Examples of the organization are the degree of
centralization of personnel and the administrative practices. TMN architecture
will be such that the NEs will operate in the same way, independently of
the OS architecture.
.PP
The TMN must be carefully designed in order to prevent a single fault from
making the transfer of critical management messages impossible. Congestion
in the DCN or LCN should not cause blocking or excessive delay of network
management messages that are intended to correct the congestion situation or
restore a faulty system.
.PP
As an example of the single fault situation in a critical NE such as a
local switch, a separate channel can be provided for \fIemergency action\fR
| The emergency action function, when provided, requires an independent
maintenance capability when the normal OS is inoperative or when the NE
has degraded to the point where the normal surveillance functions cannot
operate. For these reasons the emergency action OS may be separate from
the normal maintenance OS,
although they are usually at the same location. OSs and NEs which provide
the emergency action function may require at least two physical access
channels to the DCN for redundancy.
.PP
Another example is a TMN which is used to determine charges to the
customers. The OSs and the NEs which are associated with this function
require at least two physical DCN communication channels in order to provide
sufficient reliability in the collection process by the OSs of charging
messages from the NEs.
.PP
The nature of transmission line systems provides the possibility to
transport a management message in two directions so that, assuming only one
fault exists at a time, one of the two directions is available.
.bp
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
5.2
\fIOperations system\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.2.1
\fIFunctional OS configuration\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
There are at least three functional types of OSFs, i.e.\ basic,
network and service. Basic OSFs perform TMN application functions related to
NEs located in specific regions. Network OSFs realize the network TMN
application functions by performing the communication between basic OSFs.
Service OSFs perform specific TMN application functions for managing an
individual service. Basic OSFs and network OSFs share the same infrastructure
of a telecommunication network. Service OSFs are concerned with service
aspects of one or more telecommunication networks.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.2.2
\fIPhysical OS configuration\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
The OS physical architecture must provide the alternatives of
either centralizing or distributing the general functions, which
include:
.RT
.LP
a)
support application programs;
.LP
b)
data base functions;
.LP
c)
user terminal support;
.LP
d)
analysis programs;
.LP
e)
data formatting and reporting.
.PP
The OS functional architecture may be realized on various numbers of OSs,
depending on the network size.
.PP
The categorization of TMN function attributes as given in
Tables\ C\(hy1/M.30 to C\(hy3/M.30 are also important factors in the OS
physical
architecture. For example, the choice of hardware depends strongly on whether
an OS provides real time, near real time or non\(hyreal time service.
.PP
Normally OS functions will be implemented in a set of OSs with a Q\d3\uinterface
connected to the DCN. However, this should not preclude a practical realization
whereby some of these functions are implemented in an NE or an MD.
.PP
An OS which supports maintenance must provide for two types of data
communication: spontaneous transmission of messages concerning problems from
the NE to the OS, and two\(hyway dialogue, when the OS obtains supporting
information from the NE and sends commands to the NE. In addition, a
maintenance OS is responsible for assuring the integrity of the maintenance
data channels through a data communication network.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
5.3
\fITMN data communication considerations\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.3.1
\fIData communication networks\fR \fIconsiderations\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
A DCN for a TMN should, wherever possible, follow the reference
model for open systems interconnection for CCITT applications as specified
in Recommendation\ X.200\ [2].
.PP
Within a TMN the necessary physical connection (e.g.\ circuit switched
or packet switched) may be offered by communication paths constructed with
all kinds of network components, e.g., dedicated lines, public switched
data
network, ISDN, common channel signalling network, public switched telephone
network, local area networks, terminal controllers, etc. In the extreme case
the communication path provides for full connectivity, i.e. each attached
system can be physically connected to all others.
.PP
All connections not using a type\ Q, F or X interface are outside of
a\ TMN.
.PP
A data communications network (DCN) connects NEs with internal
mediation functions or mediation devices to the OSs and always interfaces at
the standard Q\d3\ulevel. The use of standard Q\d3\uinterfaces enables
maximum flexibility in planning the necessary communications. In general,
a DCN does
not provide all the data communication functions for a TMN. Therefore, the
communication between Q\d1\u, Q\d2\uand Q\d3\uinterfaces may require
communication links, as part of an LCN.
.PP
A DCN can be implemented using point\(hyto\(hypoint circuits, a switched
network or a packet network. The facilities can be dedicated to a DCN or
be a shared facility (e.g.\ using CCITT Signalling System No.\ 7 or an
existing packet switched network).
.bp
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.3.2
\fILocal communications network\fR \fIconsiderations\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Within a TMN, the necessary physical connection may be locally
offered by all kinds of network configurations, e.g., point\(hyto\(hypoint,
star, bus or ring.
.PP
A local communication network (LCN) connects NEs to MDs or MDs to MDs and
generally interfaces at two standard levels, Q\d1\uand Q\d2\u, within a
telecommunication center. However, for practical reasons, an LCN may connect
remote NEs to local MDs. In some cases, NEs with internal mediation functions
may be connected to a DCN through an LCN via a standard Q\d3\uinterface.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
5.4
\fIMediation\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.4.1
\fIMediation considerations\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Mediation is a process within a TMN which acts on information
passing between network elements (NE) and operations systems (OS) via a data
communication network. Mediation devices use standard interfaces and can be
shared by several NE(s) and/or OS(s).
.PP
\fINote\fR \ \(em\ Mediation devices accommodate different designs of NEs
when acting on information passing from these NEs to OSs by appropriate
implementation of communication functions. The mediation function may be
implemented in stand alone devices or combined with other unrelated functions
(e.g.\ with a local processor or with a switching exchange). Mediation
functions can be implemented as a hierarchy of cascaded devices using standard
interfaces. Examples of the mediation function are concentration, protocol
conversion, collection/control and processing. The mediation function may be
absent in some implementations.
.PP
The cascading of mediation devices and various interconnection
structures between MDs on one hand and MDs and NEs on the other hand provides
for great flexibility in the TMN. Some options are shown in Figure\ 8/M.30.
It enables cost effective implementations of the connection of NEs of different
complexity (e.g.\ switching equipment and transmission multiplex equipment)
to the same TMN. In addition, it gives the capability for future design
of new
equipment to support a greater level of processing within individual NEs,
without the need to redesign an existing TMN.
.PP
It may be possible to recognize a mediation type process in some
network elements similar to the one described above. For the purpose of this
Recommendation, it is convenient to regard the function of mediation as
being wholly contained within the TMN. However, this does not preclude
practical
realizations where some or all of the mediation functions are implemented
within the network element, which must still interface to the TMN via a
standardized Q interface. The choice of any interface which may be required
for a network element is left to the discretion of the Administrations.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.4.2
\fIProcess of mediation\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Mediation is a process that routes and/or acts on information
passing between NEs and OSs. The processes that can form mediation can be
classified into the following five general process categories:
.RT
.LP
1)
communication control;
.LP
2)
protocol conversion and data handling;
.LP
3)
transfer of primitive functions;
.LP
4)
decision making processes;
.LP
5)
data storage.
.PP
A number of more specific processes can be identified within each of these
general process categories, some examples of which are given below.
Mediation may consist of one or more of these specific processes:
.LP
a)
communications control:
.LP
\(em
polling,
.LP
\(em
addressing,
.LP
\(em
communications networking,
.LP
\(em
ensuring integrity of data flows;
.LP
b)
protocol conversion and data handling:
.LP
\(em
protocol conversion at either lower or upper OSI
levels,
.LP
\(em
concentration of data,
.LP
\(em
compression or reduction of data,
.LP
\(em
collection of data,
.LP
\(em
data formatting,
.LP
\(em
data translation;
.bp
.LP
c)
tranfer of primitive functions:
.LP
\(em
command/response statement,
.LP
\(em
alarm statements,
.LP
\(em
alarm forwarding,
.LP
\(em
test results/data,
.LP
\(em
operational measurement data,
.LP
\(em
upload of status report,
.LP
\(em
local alarming;
.LP
d)
decision making processes:
.LP
\(em
work station access,
.LP
\(em
thresholding,
.LP
\(em
data communications back\(hyup,
.LP
\(em
routing/re\(hyrouting of data,
.LP
\(em
security (e.g., log\(hyin procedures),
.LP
\(em
fault sectionalization tests,
.LP
\(em
circuit selection and access for tests,
.LP
\(em
circuit test analysis;
.LP
e)
data storage:
.LP
\(em
data\(hybase storage,
.LP
\(em
network configuration,
.LP
\(em
equipment identification,
.LP
\(em
memory back\(hyup.
.PP
Certain mediation processes may be carried out autonomously.
.PP
The mediation function of the TMN permits a flexible design of the
architecture NE to OS. Different architectural designs for operations,
administration and maintenance communications can be accommodated in the
same TMN by appropriate implementation of the hierarchical configuration
of
mediation. By these means, NEs of different complexity (e.g. switching
exchange or multiplex equipment) can connect into the same TMN.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.4.3
\fIImplementation of mediation processes\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Mediation processes can be implemented as stand\(hyalone equipment or as
part of an NE. In either case the mediation function remains part of the
TMN.
.PP
In the stand\(hyalone case the interfaces towards both NEs and OSs are
one or more of the standard operations interfaces (Q\d1\u, Q\d2\uand Q\d3\u).
Where
mediation is part of an NE only, the interfaces towards the OSs are specified
as one or more of the standard operations interfaces (Q\d2\uand Q\d3\u).
Mediation that is part of an NE (e.g. as part of a switching exchange)
may also act as mediation for other NEs. In this case standard operations
interfaces
(Q\d1\uand Q\d2\u) to these other NEs are required.
.PP
Also, the mediation functions within an NE which carries out the
mediation function for other NEs is regarded as being a part of the TMN.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.5
\fINetwork element\fR \fIconsiderations\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
In the TMN reference model, a network element performs the network element
function (NEF), and may in addition perform one or more MFs.
.PP
The study of various application examples leads to the desirability to
distinguish between the following functions contained in an NEF:
.RT
.LP
\(em
The Maintenance entity function (MEF) is involved in the
telecommunication process. Typical MEFs are switching and transmission. A
maintenance entity (ME) can contain one or more MEFs.
.LP
\(em
The support entity function (SEF) is not directly involved in the telecommunication
process. Typical SEFs are fault localization, billing, protection switching.
A support entity (SE) can contain one or more SEFs.
.LP
\(em
The Q\(hyadapter function (QAF) is used to connect to TMN
those MEs and SEs which do not provide standard TMN interfaces. Typical QAFs
are interface conversions. A Q\(hyadapter (QA) can contain one or more
QAFs and may also contain MFs.
.bp
.PP
This approach to definitions of the parts of an NE which perform operations
functions implies the following relationships:
.LP
\(em
an NE contains MEs or SEs or both MEs and SEs;
.LP
\(em
an NE may or may not contain a QA.
.PP
Note that the various parts of an NE are not geographically
constrained to one physical location. For example, the parts may be distributed
along a transmission system.
.PP
Figure 9/M.30 shows the NE reference model outside the TMN with
related physical implementations. The m\(hyreference point separates the
maintenance entity function (MEF), the support entity function (SEF), and
the Q\(hyadapter function (QAF).
.PP
Figure 10/M.30 shows different types of Q\(hyadapters connected to MEs
and SEs. The Q\(hyadapters are not required if MEs or SEs are supplied with
Q\(hyinterfaces. The M\(hyinterface can be of parallel, star or bus\(hytype.
.PP
Examples of network elements are shown in Annex\ A.
.RT
.LP
.rs
.sp 22P
.ad r
\fBFigure 9/M.30, p. 17\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.6
\fIWork stations\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
In Figure 2/M.30 and 3/M.30, the work station reference points and interfaces
are shown at a number of locations. An Administration may choose to implement
a work station at only some of these locations.
.PP
The TMN work stations and their interfaces are subjects for further
study.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.7
\fITMN standard interfaces\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
TMN standard interfaces provide for the interconnection of NEs,
OSs, MDs and WSs through the DCN or LCN. The purpose of an interface
specification is to assure compatibility of devices interconnected to
accomplish a given TMN application function, independent of the type of
device or of the supplier. This requires compatible communication protocols
and a
compatible data representation method for the messages, including compatible
generic message definitions for TMN application functions. A minimum set of
protocol suites, to be applied to TMN standard interfaces, should be determined
according to the protocol selection method described in\ \(sc\ 4.4.
.bp
.RT
.LP
.rs
.sp 47P
.ad r
\fBFigure 9/M.30, p.\fR
.sp 1P
.RT
.ad b
.RT
.LP
.bp
.PP
Consideration should be given to compatibility with the most
efficient
data transport facilities available to reach individual network elements
(e.g.\ leased circuits, circuit switched connections, X.25 packet switched
connections, CCITT Signalling System No.\ 7, embedded operations channels and
ISDN access network D\(hy\ and\ B\(hychannels).
.PP
It is recognized that NEs, OSs, DCNs, LCNs, MDs and WSs may have other
interfaces in addition to the Q, F, G and X interfaces defined in this
Recommendation. It is also recognized that this equipment may have other
functionality in addition to that associated with information sent or received
via Q, F, G and X interfaces. These additional interfaces and related
functionality are outside the TMN.
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.7.1
\fIQ\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.EF '% \fI1\ and\''
.OF '''\fI1\ and\ %'
.EF '% \fI2\ interfaces''
.OF '''\fI2\ interfaces %'
.PP
The PQ\dL\\dC\\dN\ufunction attributes required at the Q\d1\u/Q\d2\uinterfaces
are strongly dependent on the mediation functions needed, as well as the
mediation function partitioning between cascaded MDs. Since the purpose
of putting MDs between OSs and NEs is to make flexible implementation possible,
mediation function partitioning should not be restricted to only one case.
Therefore, one minimum set of protocol suites should be selected to be
applied to both Q\d1\uand Q\d2\uinterfaces instead of selecting a different
set for
each of them. The choice of individual protocol suites from the recommended
PQ\dL\\dC\\dN\ufamily should be left to the Administrations.
.PP
The protocol suites to be applied to the Q\d1\uand Q\d2\uinterfaces
need not implement all layers of the OSI model. Details of the Q\d1\uand
Q\d2\uinterface specification and the PQ\dL\\dC\\dN\ufamily of protocol
suites are
given in Recommendation\ G.771\ [3].
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.7.2
\fIQ\fR
.sp 9p
.RT
.EF '% \fI3\ interface''
.OF '''\fI3\ interface %'
.PP
For the PQ\dD\u\dC\\dN\uprotocols, it is recommended that each set of
TMN application functions with similar protocol needs be supported with
unique protocol selections for layers\ 4 to\ 7 as defined by the OSI Reference
Model
(Recommendation\ X.200\ [2]). The anulling of service options of individual
layers above layer\ 3, and even entire layers above layer\ 3, may be necessary
for justifiable economic reasons. In addition, protocol options will likely
be required for the PQ\dD\u\dC\\dN\uprotocols for layers\ 1,\ 2 and\ 3
in order to
permit the use of the most efficient data transport.
.PP
Details of the Q\d3\uinterfaces and the PQ\dD\u\dC\\dN\uprotocols are given
in Recommendation\ Q.513\ [4].
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
5.7.3
\fIF interface\fR | (under study)
.sp 1P
.RT
.sp 1P
.LP
5.7.4
\fIX interface\fR | (under study)
.sp 9p
.RT
.PP
Interconnection to other TMNs.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB6\fR \fBUser interface\fR (under study)
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
This section will provide information and recommendations about the possible
location and type of user work stations to be provided with a TMN. It will
discuss work station back\(hyup considerations when parts of the TMN have
failed.
.RT
.sp 2P
.LP
\fB7\fR \fBTMN maintenance considerations\fR (under study)
.sp 1P
.RT
.PP
This section will provide information and recommendations about the considerations
associated with the maintenance of the TMN itself.
.RT
.LP
.rs
.sp 2P
.ad r
Blanc
.ad b
.RT
.LP
.bp