Application of AI methods to practical GPON FTTH network design and planning

The optimal design of telecommunication network infrastructure demands consideration of many complex factors such as type, number and position of components and cable paths. The difficulty of producing a consistent and cost-effective solution increases with network size and complexity. A network planning optimisation tool developed at EBTIC (Etisalat British Telecom Innovation Centre) can generate different network topologies and evaluate them to arrive rapidly at an optimal or near-optimal solution. It has been trialled in Greenfield areas for FTTH (Fibre To The Home) deployment. This case study reviews the operation of EBTIC optimisation tool, how the design problem has been formulated and summarises the key steps in the practical application of the algorithms. In addition, the business benefits provided by the tool in the working environment are provided.