Benefits Of Using Digital Diagnostic Monitoring For Ethernet Switches

DDM (Digital Diagnostic Monitoring) is developed by the industry organization SFF Committee and operates in accordance with the standard parameters defined by the SFF-8472 multi-source protocol. It standardizes the standard values or ranges to be followed by the software and hardware of optical modules and network devices, ensuring different interoperability of products provided between network device suppliers and optical module suppliers. DDM is a real-time parameter monitoring technology for optical modules, including operating voltage, operating temperature, received optical power, emitted optical power, and laser bias current.

Functions of DDM

In addition to monitoring parameters, DDM also has functions such as alarm, fault prediction, and fault location.

1. Alarm function: When the environmental parameters of the optical module exceed the specified standard range, an alarm will be sent to the system. If the display module is in a bad state, the transmitter will stop sending data, and the receiver will also refuse to receive data.

2. Fault prediction: By monitoring the bias current of the laser to predict the degradation of the laser, it ensures that the service is switched to a standby link or the optical module that may have failed is replaced before a fault occurs, thus playing a role in predicting the lifetime of the optical module.

3. Fault location: Quickly locate link faults through comprehensive analysis of alarm flags or conditions, monitoring parameter information, and optical module pins, thereby reducing system fault repair time.

The digital diagnostic monitoring function reduces the work of network administrators in locating faults, even during maintenance. Using this feature, you can objectively estimate the service life of the device. You don't need to shut down the network, so you can ensure that the device works uninterrupted. It can also identify issues related to operating temperature and voltage before they become out of control, so it can be repaired in a timely manner. This can save costs and production time associated with damage. This extends the service life of the network to some extent and helps prevent crashes and failures. In addition, DDM can also check device compatibility based on the set standards of the working environment. This helps optimize device performance. Even if you are located in another location, you can remotely troubleshoot the problem.

Benefits of using digital diagnostic monitoring for Ethernet switches

Ethernet switches are used as connection interfaces in many real-time and mission critical applications. Therefore, it is crucial that they provide the correct output at the right time. Some applications of Ethernet switches include traffic control systems and parking lights on remote networks. Such systems connected through distributed networks may sometimes face connectivity issues due to various reasons (such as incorrect cable panel connections, road mining, etc.). In this case, DDM functionality can easily identify issues, and administrators or engineers can remotely access the switch management screen from any location.

After checking all these parameters on the screen, the engineer can make informed decisions and perform preventive maintenance, check for signal attenuation, check for any deterioration in the optical path, and so on. Most importantly, all these parameters can be checked as part of regular maintenance to prevent any further damage.

On the market, you can obtain Ethernet switches with or without DDM functionality. However, selecting an Ethernet switch with DDM functionality is always a good choice, as digital diagnostic monitoring technology provides many benefits. If functionality or setting parameters change, DDM enabled Ethernet switches can generate alert messages. Therefore, it is worthwhile to spend additional money to purchase an Ethernet switch with DDM functionality.