Fluke Networks' Predictor warns of impending cable failures by correlating switch alarms according to facility, cable and pair. Studies show 80-85% of Predictor identified troubles become customer troubles within 27 days. This proactive approach can give the telephone company an opportunity to address switch alarms before the cable troubles become customer troubles. The sharp reduction in customer troubles eliminates costly multiple reactive dispatches and PUC fines. Proactive maintenance on marginal cables also improves general network health and helps support the newer and more sensitive digital services, such as DSL, over existing copper lines.
Server based module
Predictor automatically monitors Automated Line Insulation Tests (ALIT) and Per Call Test Failures (PCTF) messages from electronic switching systems 24 hours per day. Predictor correlates ALIT and PCTF data with user-defined thresholds to prioritize dispatches. Predictor accesses LoopCare, 4Tel or other test system interfaces when detailed tests or test corroboration is needed. Predictor also provides secure user access to these systems and interfaces.
A programmable common language interface allows global access to all switch types connected to Predictor. Switch features such as call forwarding, PIC/PLIC or three-way calling can be queried or changed anywhere throughout the entire network. Predictor not only supports trouble entry into any work manager such as LMOS or WFA, but also allows secure user access to these systems.
Universal interface
Predictor works across all vender switches. The Predictor User-Definable Interface (PUDI) translates the native switch language from any vendor into common language allowing the seamless introduction of new switch types into the network. Predictor also interfaces with any Stored Program Control System (SPCS) without additional development cost.
Daily morning report
Questionable indications like those generated from ground start PBX or other special conditions are filtered out, and information on open customer troubles in the associated cable counts, is attached. A daily Automated Morning Report (AMR) is produced for the user, or the information can be passed through Fluke Networks' rule-based LoopExpert System (LES) or other downstream systems for further analysis. Additional reports can be requested on demand or triggered by the switch in accordance with user-defined alarm conditions. Reports are flexible and need not have the same alarm threshold settings. For example, report thresholds could be more sensitive for critical customers such as hospitals, police and fire departments – reports can even be generated for individual telephone numbers.
Predictor G15 release
Generic 15 is the latest Predictor release from Fluke Networks. The new G15 reader works with both TCP/IP and DataKit. The reader has moved from the kernel to the application level to insulate the system from any local reader problems. The G15 code is now ANSI compliant and has been recompiled for the HP11i 64-bit environment. Switch connections in G15 are dynamically added or dropped and Oracle now replaces the legacy flat file database. A new sizing utility simplifies G15 database installation by automatically computing the necessary table space.
