The design of dense wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM) networks can encompass a wide variety of tasks and design factors. Depending upon network type and scale, the DWDM design can be very simpleas is the case with point-to-point, unamplified systemsor can be very complex. Many factors should be considered when planning a DWDM network. This chapter examines the general design considerations for DWDM networks and explores their importance for ONS 15454 Multiservice Transport Platform (MSTP) DWDM system deployment. This chapter is not intended to provide a complex, thorough analysis of DWDM fundamentals. It is assumed that the reader has a basic knowledge of DWDM transmitters, receivers, amplifiers, fiber nonlinearities, and so on. However, where appropriate, some detail is presented on these topics. For a general review of DWDM fundamentals, refer to the technical documentation referenced at Cisco.com |