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In addition to the usual FCAPS functions (Fault, Configuration, Alarms, Performance, System), MetarWork® NMS also provides other functional modules to enhance the overall efficiency of managing the network. Below are just some of the functions we provide:
- Topology Management
- Fault/Alarm Management
- Performance Management
- Inventory Management
- Configuration Management
- System/Security Management
- Trouble Ticket Management
Topology Management
Integrated with Geographical Information Systems (GIS), exact locations of network equipment can be pinpointed. Network schematics and panel views can also be displayed through this module.
Fault/Alarm Management
This module supports all major alarm/fault functionalities, such as real-time alarm reporting, alarm filtering, alarm masking, and severity re-assignment, among others. A sophisticated Root Cause Analysis (RCA) system uses a rule-based expert system to filter out large number of alarms and narrow down to a few root causes, thus saving the operator substantial trouble-shooting time.
Performance Management
This module is responsible for the collection, reporting, and real-time monitoring of various KPI's. User can set threshold levels for each KPI so that when the KPI exceeds its respective threshold, alarms will be generated. User-defined KPI is also supported.
Inventory Management
Both physical inventory (e.g. ports, cards, NE's, racks, cables) and logical inventory (cross-connections, protection groups) can be managed by this module. The system is capable of periodically querying the network to update the latest inventory information.
Configuration Management
This modules supports the provisioning of all network equipment services including NE's, cards, ports, cross-connects, as well as diagnostics services such as test-pattern generation and loop-back provisioning.
System/Security Management
While not central to network management requirements, these modules nonetheless provide supportive functions that are crucial to the secure, effective operation of the network. The System Management module provides tools for data backup and recovery, hardware monitoring, and software process monitoring. The Security Management module provides user/group management, user privilege management, and user/operations monitoring.
Trouble Ticket Management
This module can be directly interfaced with the Alarm module, or external systems, such that when an alarm or external event is received, a trouble ticket can be generated, and forwarded to the appropriate personnel through e-mail, SMS or pager. This module is responsible for keeping track of all information filled into the trouble ticket, the flow of the ticket, and ensuring that the ticket is handled in an efficient and timely manner.
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