Network support: Understanding the Force Laser and Release Force Laser features

For optical transport services such as Lumen^® Wavelength Solutions, the Force Laser and Release Force Laser features are critical tools for managing laser operations in optical networks. These features provide engineers with precise control over laser behavior, helping ensure network stability and performance. Below, we explain how these features work and their practical benefits.

The Force Laser feature allows you to manually turn on a laser in an optical device, such as a transponder or amplifier, regardless of whether the system detects a valid connection or signal. Normally, lasers in optical systems are designed to remain off until they detect a proper connection to avoid unnecessary power emissions that could interfere with other network components or pose safety risks. However, there are situations where you may need to override this behavior.

• The feature forces the laser to emit light even if no active connection is detected.
  
  
• This is typically used during troubleshooting or maintenance when technicians need to verify that the laser is functioning correctly or check signal paths.

• Troubleshooting: Helps engineers test whether the laser is operational without requiring a fully established connection.
  
  
• Path verification: Allows technicians to confirm that light is traveling through the intended fiber path.
  
  
• Maintenance: Helps diagnose issues in fiber connections or optical components during planned maintenance windows.

The Release Force Laser feature is essentially the opposite of the Force Laser function. It disables the manual override and returns the laser to its default state, where it only turns on when a valid connection or signal is detected.

• When activated, this feature helps ensure that the laser follows standard safety and operational protocols.
  
  
• It prevents unnecessary light emission, reducing potential risks to other equipment or personnel.

• Safety compliance: Helps ensure that lasers are not emitting light when they shouldn’t be, reducing risks of accidental exposure.
  
  
• Network stability: Prevents interference with other optical channels by helping ensure that only active and necessary lasers are operational.
  
  
• Automation reset: Returns the system to its automated state after manual testing or troubleshooting is complete.

• Testing fiber links: A technician may use the Force Laser feature to send light through a fiber link and verify its integrity. Once testing is complete, they can use Release Force Laser to return the system to normal operation.
  
  
• Isolating faults: If a network issue arises, forcing the laser on can help identify whether a problem lies with the laser itself or elsewhere in the network.
  
  
• Installing new equipment: During setup of new optical equipment, engineers may force lasers on temporarily to align fibers and ensure proper connections.
  
  
• Replacing components: After replacing faulty components like amplifiers or transponders, these features allow technicians to validate functionality before resuming automated operations.

• Enhanced diagnostics: Provides tools for deeper insights into network performance and issues.
  
  
• Operational flexibility: Allows manual control when needed without permanently altering system settings.
  
  
• Improved safety: Helps ensure lasers operate only when necessary, minimizing risks associated with inadvertent emissions.