When the bit error occurs to the system, generally the OSNR at the transmit end is well and the fault is well hidden.
Decrease the optical power at the transmit end at that time. If the number of bit errors decreases at the transmit end, the problem is non-linear problem.
If the number of bit errors increases at the transmit end, the problem is the OSNR degrade problem.
One method to reduce FWM effects is to use transmission fiber that has high chromatic dispersion coefficient at the signal wavelength such as standard single-mode fiber SSMF (ITU-T G.652). The typical chromatic dispersion coefficient of SSMF is 18 ps/nm ⋅ km @ 1550 nm which helps to significantly reduce FWM from occurring. Even a lower chromatic dispersion coefficient significantly helps in reducing FWM such as NZ-DSF fiber (ITU-T G.655). This fiber is specially designed with low chromatic dispersion coefficient (~4 ps/nm ⋅ km @ 1550 nm) for extended transmission distance but high enough to significantly reduce FWM effects.
To reduce these effects is to lower signal power in the fiber or use fiber with a larger cross sectional area to reduce the signal power density.
A third method to help reduce FWM effects is to space signal channels unevenly.
A fourth method to reduce FWM effects is to use DWDM systems with wide channel spacing. The magnitude of FWM effect is dependent on channel spacing. Wider spaced
DWDM channels generate weaker FWM components.
Work of transmission systems is to transmit signal from one location to another location over media and receive signal error free. Lot of impairments caused by Transmission media, system components and by signal itself. As in DWDM network each channel which carries signals like SDH, SONET, and Ethernet propagates in optical domain it encounters with linear and nonlinear effects, which distort signal pulse shape and amplitude. As each signal generated and received by Transceivers or Transponders. When this distorted optical signal received by Transceiver, it converts the optical signal in electrical signal, which decodes the actual information like SDH, SONET or Ethernet carry over individual channel. In digital format the impact of optical Linear and nonlinear impairments are detected as BER. Because these impairments, changed the original patterns of pulse shape and amplitude of signal, pulse width expansion leads to inter symbol interference, and at receiver end this is decoded 1 as 0 or 0 as 1, which cause BER.
These nonlinear interactions can be divided into three main categories:
(1) Brillouin effect,
(2) Kerr effect, and
(3) Raman effect.
Stimulated Brillouin Scattering (Brillouin effect)
Stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) is an inelastic phenomenon resulting from the scattering of photon inside the optical fiber. The scattered photon is slightly frequency downshifted compared to the initial photon, the energy difference being transferred to an acoustic phonon.
When increasing the launch power, the optical fiber practically acts as a mirror whose reflectance coefficient increases. As a result, the corresponding fiber loss can significantly grow and the induced reflections can degrade the system performance.
When low power is injected into the fiber, only intrinsic Rayleigh back-reflections occur and the level of reflections is very low (around 32 dB). When high power is launched in the fiber, the backscattered power increases because of the stimulated Brillouin scattering
The SBS-related penalty can be minimized by keeping the per-channel power below the SBS threshold, which depends on the size of the optical fiber core and on the transmitter linewidth
Kerr Effect
In the case of a single-channel transmission, the refractive index of the waveguide is modulated by the fluctuations of the channel intensity via the Kerr effect. The amplitude of this phenomenon is increased by a high launch power and small effective area inside the optical fiber. This nonlinear effect can broaden the channel spectrum and therefore interplay with the chromatic dispersion, resulting in pulse distortion and broadening.
The Kerr effect is usually decomposed in three different contributions that are actually closely related. When a signal travels alone through the fiber, its modulated power induces a self-phase modulation (SPM). By contrast, the presence of several channels in a WDM transmission generates on each signal a cross-phase modulation. For the particular case of well-phase-matched WDM signals (i.e. moderate fiber chromatic dispersion), the Kerr effect produces four- wave mixing (FWM).
1. Self-Phase Modulation
Light travels more slowly when the optical power is high, leading to a phase difference compared to light traveling at a low optical power. The result of the propagation of an amplitude-modulated signal is known as SPM.Self-phase modulation becomes significant as soon as the launch power is typically larger than 12 dBm.
2. Cross-Phase Modulation
In the case of several high-power channels propagating simultaneously within the same fiber, the refractive index modulation experienced by one given channel is not only caused by the intensity modulation of this specific channel (SPM) but also by the intensity modulation brought by the copropagating channels. This cross-refractive index modulation is called cross-phase modulation (XPM) and can be described as a process through which the intensity fluctuations in a particular channel are converted to phase fluctuations in the other channels.
3. Four-Wave Mixing
When several carriers at different wavelengths are launched into the fiber and are closed to be phase-matched, new waves can be generated by four-wave mixing via third-order intermodulation process. The optical frequencies of these FWM-generated waves are given by nijk= ni
+ nj -nk where ni ; nj , and nk are the frequencies of the launched initial channels (i.e., the signal channels). Four-wave mixing can transfer a fraction of the channel powers to the frequency of the other channels through the generation of FWM waves. FWM is considered the most dominant source of crosstalk in WDM systems .It becomes a major source of nonlinear crosstalk when- ever the channel spacing and fiber dispersion are small enough to satisfy the phase- matching condition approximately. For an N-channel system, i, j , and k can vary from 1 to N, resulting in a large combination of new frequencies generated by FWM. In the case of equally spaced channels, the new frequencies coincide with the existing frequencies, leading to coherent in-band crosstalk. When channels are not equally spaced, most FWM components fall in between the channels and lead to incoherent out-of-band crosstalk. In both cases, system performance is degraded because power transferred to each chan- nel through FWM acts as a noise source, but the coherent crosstalk degrades system performance much more severely.
Stimulated Raman Scattering
Like SBS, stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) is an inelastic phenomenon resulting from the scattering of an incoming photon inside the optical fiber. The scattered photon is frequency downshifted compared to the initial photon, the energy difference being transferred to an optical phonon. When several beams propagate through the fiber at different wavelengths, the maximum energy transfer occurs for a 13.2-THz separation between the channels .
Channel interaction due to Raman scattering is not maximal for channel spacing lower than 13.2 THz, which is the case for WDM systems; nevertheless, it can still be significant for high-power, wideband systems.
Nonlinear effects are the impairments in optical signal caused by interaction of power levels of various signals in fiber. Non-linear interactions between the signal and the silica fiber transmission medium begin to appear as optical signal powers are increased to achieve longer span lengths at high bit rates. Consequently, non-linear fiber behavior has emerged as an important consideration both in high capacity systems and in long unregenerated routes.
A variety of parameters influence the severity of these non-linear effects, including line code (modulation format), transmission rate, fiber dispersion characteristics, the effective area and non-linear refractive index of the fiber, the number and spacing of channels in multiple channel systems, overall unregenerated system length, as well as signal intensity and source line-width.
Each data channel in a DWDM link is a train of pulses. Being finite in time, each optical pulse is composed of a range of wavelengths distributed around a central optical wavelength, which corresponds to the central wavelength of a specific DWDM channel. The total signal in the optical fiber is then the combination of all the DWDM optical channels multiplexed in the optical fiber. During propagation in the optical fiber, the shape and amplitude of each pulse is modified by various effects arising from the physical properties of the optical fiber material.
Linear Impairments: Impairments increases linearly as signal propagates in fiber with distance known as linear impairments like attenuation and dispersion.
Counter pump distributed Raman amplifiers are often combined with EDFA pre-amps to extend span distances. This hybrid configuration can provide 6 dB improvement in the OSNR, which can significantly extend span lengths or increase span loss budget. Counter pump Raman Amplifier can also help reduce nonlinear effects by allowing for channel launch power reduction.
Raman Amplifiers are very sensitive to input power so they are always used with EDFA in cascaded fashion. (a small change at input will result in high output power change and thus subsequent components may suffer)
Forward pumping provides the highest SNR, and the smallest noise figure, because most of the Raman gain is then concentrated toward the input end of the fiber where power levels are high. However, backward pumping is often employed in practice because of other considerations such as the transfer of pump noise to signal and the effects of residual fiber birefringence.
Major Noise sources of Raman Amplifiers are:
ASE noise is due to photon generation by spontaneous Raman scattering.DRS noise occurs when twice reflected signal power due to Rayleigh scattering is amplified and interferes with the original signal as crosstalk noise. The strongest reflections occur from connectors and bad splices. Typically, DRS noise is less than ASE noise, but for multiple Raman spans it can add up. To reduce this interference, ultra-polish connectors (UPC) or angle polish (APC) connectors can be used. Optical isolators can be installed after the laser diodes to reduce reflections into the laser. Also span OTDR traces can help locate high-reflective events for repair.
Counter pump DRA configuration results in better OSNR performance for signal gains of 15 dB and greater. Pump laser noise is less of a concern because it usually is quite low with RIN of better than 160 dB/Hz.
Nonlinear Kerr effects can also contribute to noise due to the high laser pump power. For fibers with low DRS noise, the Raman noise figure due to ASE is much better than the EDFA noise figure. Typically, the Raman noise figure is –2 to 0 dB, which is about 6 dB better than the EDFA noise figure.
Raman amplifier noise factor is defined as the OSNR at the input of the amplifier to the OSNR at the output of the amplifier.
An undesirable feature is that the Raman gain is somewhat polarization sensitive. In general, the gain is maximum when the signal and pump are polarized along the same direction but is reduced when they are orthogonally polarized.
Raman amplifier is a well-known amplifier configuration. This amplifier uses conventional fiber (rather doped fibers), which may be co-or counter-pumped to provide amplification over a wavelength range which is a function of the pump wavelength. The Raman amplifier relies upon forward or backward stimulated Raman scattering. Typically, the pump source is selected to have a wavelength of around 100 nm below the wavelength over which amplification is required.
Principle of working:
As the pump laser photons propagate in the fiber, they collide and are absorbed by fiber molecules or atoms. This excites the molecules or atoms to higher energy levels. The higher energy levels are not stable states so they quickly decay to lower intermediate energy levels releasing energy as photons in any direction at lower frequencies. This is known as spontaneous Raman scattering or Stokes scattering and contributes to noise in the fiber.
Since the molecules decay to an intermediate energy vibration level, the change in energy is less than the initial received energy during molecule excitation. This change in energy from excited level to intermediate level determines the photon frequency since Δ f = Δ E / h. This is referred to as the Stokes frequency shift and determines the Raman gain versus frequency curve shape and location. The remaining energy from the intermediate level to ground level is dissipated as molecular vibrations (phonons) in the fiber. Since there exists a wide range of higher energy levels, the gain curve has a broad spectral width of approximately 30 THz.
During stimulated Raman scattering, signal photons co-propagate frequency gain curve spectrum, and acquire energy from the Stokes wave, resulting in signal amplification.
Some of the information bullet to know is:
DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) technology is widely used to increase the capacity of optical networks. Amplifiers play a crucial role in boosting the signal strength and ensuring reliable transmission over long distances. However, the quality of amplifier performance can be affected by several factors, including gain tilt and gain ripple. In this article, we will explore what gain tilt and gain ripple are, how they impact the performance of DWDM amplifier links, and how to mitigate their effects.
DWDM technology is widely used to increase the capacity of optical networks. Amplifiers play a crucial role in boosting the signal strength and ensuring reliable transmission over long distances. However, the quality of amplifier performance can be affected by several factors, including gain tilt and gain ripple. In this article, we will explore what gain tilt and gain ripple are, how they impact the performance of DWDM amplifier links, and how to mitigate their effects.
DWDM amplifier links consist of several optical amplifiers connected in series to compensate for the signal loss over long distances. The optical signal is amplified in each amplifier, and the output of the previous amplifier becomes the input for the next amplifier. The amplifiers are designed to provide a constant gain over a wide range of wavelengths to compensate for the loss due to dispersion, attenuation, and other factors. However, the gain of the amplifier may not be perfectly flat, and this can lead to gain tilt and gain ripple.The ability to control and adjust per channel optical power equalization is a principal feature of Amplifier in network applications. A major parameter to assure optical spectrum equalization throughout the DWDM system is the gain flatness of erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs).
Gain tilt is a phenomenon where the gain of the amplifier varies with the wavelength. In other words, the gain is not constant across the entire wavelength range, and there is a gradual increase or decrease in the gain as the wavelength changes. This can result in a distortion of the optical signal, especially if the signal contains multiple wavelengths.
The most common cause of gain tilt in DWDM amplifier links is the variation in the gain of the individual amplifiers. The gain of the amplifier depends on several factors, including the doping concentration, the pump power, the fiber length, and the temperature. Any variation in these factors can result in a variation in the gain, leading to gain tilt.
The effects of gain tilt can be severe, especially if the signal contains multiple wavelengths. The gain tilt can result in a distortion of the signal, causing errors and impairments in the transmission. The distortion can be mitigated by equalizing the gain across all wavelengths, which can be achieved using various techniques.
Gain ripple is a phenomenon where the gain of the amplifier varies periodically with the wavelength. In other words, the gain is not constant, and there are peaks and dips in the gain as the wavelength changes. This can result in a distortion of the optical signal, especially if the signal contains multiple wavelengths.
The most common cause of gain ripple in DWDM amplifier links is the interference between the optical signals and the amplifiers. The interference can be caused by several factors, including the reflection from the fiber ends, the Rayleigh scattering, and
the amplifier noise. The interference can cause some wavelengths to be amplified more than others, resulting in the periodic gain variation, or gain ripple.
The effects of gain ripple can be severe, especially if the signal contains multiple wavelengths. The gain ripple can result in a distortion of the signal, causing errors and impairments in the transmission. The distortion can be mitigated by equalizing the gain across all wavelengths, which can be achieved using various techniques.
The gain tilt and gain ripple can be measured using a specialized device called an optical spectrum analyzer (OSA). The OSA measures the power and the spectrum of the optical signal and provides a graphical representation of the gain tilt and gain ripple. The OSA can be used to identify the location and the magnitude of the gain tilt and gain ripple and help in the troubleshooting and optimization of the amplifier links.
The gain tilt and gain ripple can be mitigated using several techniques, including:
Pre-equalization is a technique where the gain of the amplifiers is adjusted before the signal is transmitted. The adjustment compensates for the gain tilt and gain ripple and ensures that the signal is transmitted with a constant gain across all wavelengths. Pre-equalization can be performed using various devices, including the optical equalizer and the dynamic gain equalizer.
Post-equalization is a technique where the gain of the amplifiers is adjusted after the signal is transmitted. The adjustment compensates for the gain tilt and gain ripple and ensures that the signal is received with a constant gain across all wavelengths. Post-equalization can be performed using various devices, including the optical equalizer and the dynamic gain equalizer.
Optical filters are devices that selectively transmit or reflect certain wavelengths of light. Optical filters can be used to equalize the gain across all wavelengths by selectively transmitting or reflecting the wavelengths that are affected by the gain tilt and gain ripple.
Gain tilt and gain ripple are common phenomena that can affect the performance of DWDM amplifier links. The gain tilt and gain ripple can cause distortion of the optical signal, resulting in errors and impairments in the transmission. The gain tilt and gain ripple can be mitigated using various techniques, including pre-equalization, post-equalization, and optical filters. The measurement and optimization of the gain tilt and gain ripple can be performed using an optical spectrum analyzer. By addressing the gain tilt and gain ripple, the performance of the DWDM amplifier links can be improved, and the reliability and efficiency of the optical networks can be enhanced.
Optical amplifiers are essential components in optical communication systems. They are used to amplify the optical signals transmitted over long distances. The performance of optical amplifiers is critical in ensuring the quality of the communication system. There are two modes of operation for optical amplifiers: power control mode and gain control mode. In this article, we will discuss the difference between these two modes and their applications. We will also provide some examples of optical amplifiers that use these modes.
Power control mode in optical amplifiers is a method of controlling the output power of the amplifier. In this mode, the output power of the amplifier is kept constant by adjusting the input power. This is achieved by using a feedback loop that measures the output power and adjusts the input power accordingly. Power control mode is commonly used in erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs) and semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs).
One of the advantages of power control mode is that it provides a stable output power. This is important in optical communication systems where the quality of the signal is critical. Another advantage is that it allows for a larger dynamic range of operation. This means that the amplifier can handle a wider range of input power levels without saturating or clipping.
One of the main disadvantages of power control mode is that it is susceptible to fluctuations in the input power. This can result in changes in the output power, which can affect the quality of the signal. Another disadvantage is that it requires a feedback loop, which adds complexity to the amplifier.
Some examples of optical amplifiers that use power control mode are:
Gain control mode in optical amplifiers is a method of controlling the gain of the amplifier. In this mode, the gain of the amplifier is kept constant by adjusting the pump power. This is achieved by using a feedback loop that measures the output power and adjusts the pump power accordingly. Gain control mode is commonly used in optical amplifiers that have a high gain, such as rare-earth-doped fiber amplifiers (REDFAs).
One of the advantages of gain control mode is that it provides a stable gain. This is important in optical communication systems where the quality of the signal is critical. Another advantage is that it is less susceptible to fluctuations in the input power. This is because the pump power is adjusted to maintain a constant gain, regardless of changes in the input power.
One of the main disadvantages of gain control mode is that it requires a high pump power. This can result in increased power consumption and higher operating costs. Another disadvantage is that it is less flexible than power control mode. This is because the gain is kept constant, which limits the dynamic range of operation.
Some examples of optical amplifiers that use gain control mode are:
Both power control mode and gain control mode have their advantages and disadvantages. The choice of mode depends on the requirements of the application. Power control mode is suitable for applications where a stable output power is required, and a large dynamic range of operation is needed. Gain control mode, on the other hand, is suitable for applications where a stable gain is required, and high pump power is available.
Optical amplifiers are crucial components in optical communication systems. Power control mode and gain control mode are two modes of operation for optical amplifiers that are commonly used. Power control mode provides a stable output power and a large dynamic range of operation. Gain control mode provides a stable gain and is less susceptible to fluctuations in the input power. The choice of mode depends on the requirements of the application.
Based on placements, for a DWDM link there are three types of amplifiers:
Booster Amplifier
Main purpose of booster amplifier is to boost the power transmitted.
A booster amplifier is used to amplify the signal channels exiting the transmitter to the level required for launching into the fiber link. In most applications this level is in the range of 0-5 dBm per channel, however, it can be higher for more demanding applications. A booster is not always required in single channel links, but is essential in a WDM link where the multiplexer attenuates the signal channels. A booster amplifier typically has low gain (in the range of 5-15 dB) and high output power, typically about 20dBm for a 40 channel WDM system. The NF of a booster amplifier is not usually a critical parameter. At the other end of a link a pre-amplifier may be required to amplify the optical signal to the level where it can be detected over and above the thermal noise of the receiver.
Pre-Amplifier
These amplifiers are commonly used to improve the receiver sensitivity. Transmission distance can also be increased by putting an amplifier just before the receiver to boost the received power.
A pre-amplifier should provide high gain, often in the range of 30 dB, and have a low NF in the range of 4-5.5 dB, in order to assure error-free detection of the signal channels. The output power of the pre-amplifier need not be very high.
For links up to about 150 km, a booster and/or pre-amplifier are usually sufficient to ensure error-free transmission. However, for links above 150 km the performance deteriorates to such an extent that the signal becomes undetectable.
In-Line Amplifier
These amplifiers are used for compensating distribution losses in local-area networks. replace electronic regenerators. An in-line amplifier is characterized by large gain and low noise to amplify an already attenuated signal so that it can travel an additional length of fiber.
In-line amplifiers are placed every 80-100 km to ensure that the optical signal level remains above the noise floor. In-line amplifiers typically require moderate gain in the range of 15-25 dB, and NF in the range of 5-7 dB. Output power requirements are similar to those of booster amplifiers. While in the early days of optical amplifiers different amplifier models had to be specifically tailored for each of the above functions, today the technology has advanced so that a single well designed amplifier model can perform many of the functions for typical applications. However, there still remain challenging applications which require specially designed amplifiers, such as very high output power boosters, or ultra-low noise pre-amplifiers.
Advantages and drawbacks of EDFAs are as follows:-
Advantages:
Drawbacks:
Maximum number of erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs) in a fiber chain is about four to six.
The rule is based on the following rationales:
1. About 80 km exists between each in-line EDFA, because this is the approximate distance at which the signal needs to be amplified.
2. One booster is used after the transmitter.
3. One preamplifier is used before the receiver.
4. Approximately 400 km is used before an amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) has approached the signal (resulting in a loss of optical signal-to-noise ratio [OSNR]) and regeneration needs to be used.
An EDFA amplifies all the wavelengths and modulated as well as unmodulated light. Thus, every time it is used, the noise floor from stimulated emissions rises. Since the amplification actually adds power to each band (rather than multiplying it), the signal-to-noise ratio is decreased at each amplification. EDFAs also work only on the C and L bands and are typically pumped with a 980- or 1480-nm laser to excite the erbium electrons. About 100 m of fiber is needed for a 30-dB gain, but the gain curve doesn’t have a flat distribution, so a filter is usually included to ensure equal gains across the C and L bands.
During population inversion phenomenon and as spontaneous emission occurs in all modes supported by the fiber (guided and unguided). Clearly, some of these photons would appear from time to time in the same fiber mode occupied by the signal field. Such spontaneously emitted photon perturbs both the amplitude and the phase of the optical field in a random fashion. These random perturbations of the signal are the source of amplifier noise in EDFAs and results in ASE.
For long haul links, generally EDFA’s are cascaded to overcome fiber losses in the link. Due to these cascading structures, amplifier induced noise buildup and impacts the performance of Amplifier. The ASE accumulates over many amplifiers and degrades the optical SNR. Also, as the level of ASE grows, it begins to saturate optical amplifiers and reduce the gain of amplifiers located further down the fiber link. The net result is that the signal level drops further while the ASE level increases. So, it’s obvious that if the number of amplifiers is large, the SNR will degrade so much at the receiver that the BER will become unacceptable.
The 980nm pump needs three energy level for radiation while 1480nm pumps can excite the ions directly to the metastable level .
Though pumping with 1480 nm is used and has an optical power conversion efficiency which is higher than that for 980 nm pumping, the latter is preferred because of the following advantages it has over 1480 nm pumping.
Amplifiers are the modules used generally in long haul networks to manage loss in a DWDM network. Here the signal is directly amplified without conversion of optical signal into electrical signal .
Optical Amplifiers amplify input light through stimulated emission, the same mechanism that is used by lasers but only difference is that amplifiers doesn’t need feedback circuitry. It’s main ingredient is the optical gain realized when the amplifier is pumped (electrically or optically ) to achieve population inversion. The optical gain, in general, depends not only on the frequency (or wavelength) of the incident signal, but also on the local signal intensity at any point inside the amplifier.
There are mainly two types of amplifiers used in DWDM network and they are EDFA(Erbium doped fiber Amplifier ) and Raman Amplifier.
EDFA:
Erbium doped fiber amplifiers makes use of rare-earth elements (Er3+ ) as a gain medium by doping the fiber core during the manufacturing process .Erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs) is widely used because they operate in the wave- length region near 1.55 μm .In EDFA,pumping at a suitable wavelength provides gain through population inversion. The gain spectrum depends on the pump- ing scheme as well as on the presence of other dopants, such as germania and alumina, within the fiber core. Efficient EDFA pumping is possible using semiconductor lasers operating near 0.98- and 1.48-μm wavelengths. Most EDFAs use 980-nm pump lasers as such lasers are commercially available and can provide more than 100 mW of pump power. Pumping at 1480 nm requires longer fibers and higher powers because it uses the tail of the absorption band ,
RAMAN:
Raman fiber uses SRS (stimulated Raman scattering ) phenomenon which was experimentally observed by Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman in 1928.
SRS is used in silica fibers when an intense pump beam propagates through it .With this effect the incident pump photon gives up its energy to create another photon of reduced energy at a lower frequency (inelastic scattering); the remaining energy is absorbed by the medium in the form of molecular vibrations (optical phonons). Thus, Raman amplifiers must be pumped optically to provide gain. The pump and signal beams at different frequencies are injected into the fiber through a fiber coupler. The energy is transferred from the pump beam to the signal beam through SRS as the two beams co-propagate inside the fiber. Commonly counter propagation mode is used. The gain from a Raman amplifier increases almost linearly with the wave- length offset between signal and pump, peaking at about an 100-nm difference, then it drops off rapidly.
As DWDM systems send signals from several sources over a single fiber, they must be able to combine the incoming signals. This is done with a multiplexer, which takes optical wavelengths from multiple fibers and converges them into one beam. At the receiving end, the system must be able to separate out the components of the light so that they can be discreetly detected. Demultiplexers perform this function by separating the received beam into its wavelength components and coupling them to individual fibers. Demultiplexing must be done before the light is detected, because photo-detectors are inherently broadband devices that cannot selectively detect a single wavelength.
Multiplexers and demultiplexers can be either passive or active in design. Passive designs are based on prisms, diffraction gratings or filters, while active designs combine passive devices with tunable filters. The primary challenges in these devices is to minimize cross-talk and maximize channel separation. Cross-talk is a measure of how well the channels are separated, while channel separation refers to the ability to distinguish each wavelength
Usually Transponders have following optical parameters to monitor:
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Optical power receives. |
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Normalized optical power receive. |
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Optical power receive (minimum). |
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Optical power receive (maximum). |
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Optical power receive (average). |
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Optical power transmit. |
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Optical power transmit (minimum). |
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Optical power transmit (maximum). |
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Optical power transmit (average). |
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Optical power receive OTS. |
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Normalized optical power receive OTS. |
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Optical power receive OTS (minimum). |
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Optical power receive OTS (maximum). |
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Optical power receive OTS (average). |
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Differential group delay (average). |
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Differential group delay (maximum). |
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Code violations, OTU, near end receive. |
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Errored seconds, OTU, near end receive. |
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Severely errored seconds, OTU, near end receive. |
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Severely errored frame seconds, OTU, near end receive. |
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FEC corrections, OTU, near end receive. |
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High correction count seconds, OTU, near end receive. |
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Pre-FEC BER, OTU, near end receive. |
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Pre-FEC BER (maximum), OTU, near end receive. |
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Post-FEC BER estimates, OTU, near end receive. |
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Q min, OTU, near end receive. This represents the Q low water mark. |
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Q max, OTU, near end receive. This represents the Q high water mark. |
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Q average, OTU, near end receive. This represents the average Q during the measured interval. |
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Q standard deviation, OTU, near end receive. This represents the standard deviation of the Q during the measured interval. |
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Uncorrected FEC block, OTU, near end receive. |
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Code violations, ODU, near end receive. |
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Errored seconds, ODU, near end receive. |
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Severely errored seconds, ODU, near end receive. |
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Unavailable seconds, ODU, near end receive. |
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Failure count, ODU, near end receive. |
The major advantage of using the coherent detection techniques is that both the amplitude and the phase of the received optical signal can be detected, extracted and measured accordingly. This method helps in sending information by modulating either the amplitude, or the phase, or the frequency of an optical carrier. In the case of digital communication systems, the three possibilities give rise to three modulation formats known as amplitude-shift keying (ASK), phase-shift keying (PSK), and frequency-shift keying (FSK)
Use of coherent detection may allow a more efficient use of fiber bandwidth by increasing the spectral efficiency of WDM system. Sometimes it has been seen that the receiver sensitivity can be improved by up to 20 dB compared with that of IM/DD systems BER, and hence the receiver sensitivity.
There are two types of transponders
non coherent transponders:
These transponders involve IM/DD (Intensity Modulation/Direct Detection) technique also known as OOK method for transmission of signal. In IM/DD the intensity, or power, of the light beam from a laser or a light-emitting diode (LED) is modulated by the information bits and no phase information is needed. Due to this nature, no local oscillator is required for IM/DD communication, which greatly eases the cost of the hardware.
coherent transponders:
The basic idea behind coherent detection consists of combining the optical signal coherently with a continuous-wave (CW) optical field before it falls on the photodetector. The CW field is generated locally at the receiver using a narrow line width laser, called the local oscillator (LO). With the mixing of the received optical signal with the LO output can improve the receiver performance.
Transponder is the integrated part of WDM systems use to transmit signal over a DWDM link. This module takes black and white or grey signals as input on 1310nm, 1550nm or 850nm and converts those signals into colored channels or certain frequencies in C or L band. This is achieved by using optical-electrical-optical conversion mechanism. Transponders along with Optical source also includes complex components that helps signal in serialization and deserialization of frames, control and monitoring capabilities etc.
There are two types of transponders:
The O – E – O transponder may also act as a 3R repeater; that is, it performs signal reshaping, retiming, and reconstitution or gain; O – E – Os are more complex and more expensive, Because the signal is converted to electronic, an O – E – O node allows for add – drop functionality, in addition to simple optical relay or transponder.
The O – O transponder, or optical relay, is technologically more attractive because it performs direct optical – to – optical amplification using optical amplifiers (doped fiber – based (EDFA) or semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOA)) thus acting as an all – optical relay.
DWDM components includes: –
Transponders
To convert grey or black and white signals to colored (different frequency) signals with O-E-O mechanism.
Multiplexer
To aggregate different channels in form of composite channel.
Amplifier
To boost signal strength so that it can travel large distance.
Demultiplexer
To dis-aggregate various channel coming from network to respective frequencies.
Dense Wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) is a technology used to combine or retrieve two or more optical signals of different optical center wavelengths or frequencies in a fiber. This allows fiber capacity to be expanded in the frequency domain from one channel to greater than 100 channels. This is accomplished by first converting standard, non-DWDM optical signals to signals with unique WDM wavelengths or frequencies that will correspond to the available channel center wavelengths in the WDM multiplexer and demultiplexer. Typically, this is done by replacing non-WDM transceivers with the proper WDM channel transceivers. WDM channels are defined and labeled by their center wavelength or frequency and channel spacing. The WDM channel assignment process is an industry standard defined in International Telecommunications Union (ITU-T). Then different WDM signal wavelengths are combined over one fiber by the WDM multiplexer. In the fiber, the individual signals propagate with minimal interaction assuming low signal power. For high powers, multiple interactions can occur. Once the signals reach the fiber link end, the WDM demultiplexer separates the signals by their wavelengths, back to individual fibers that are connected to their respective equipment receivers. Optical receivers have a broad reception spectrum, which includes all of C band. Many receivers can also receive signals with wavelengths down to O band.
Q. What is SDH ?
SDH stands for Synchronous Digital Hierarchy & is an international Standard for a high capacity optical telecommunications network.It is a synchronous digital transport system aimed at providing a more simple,economical,& flexible teleccommunication infrastructure.
Q. What is the difference between SONET and SDH?
A. To begin with there is no STS-1. The first level in the SDH hierarchy is STM-1 (Synchronous Transport Mode 1) is has a line rate of 155.52 Mb/s. This is equivalent to SONET’s STS-3c. Then would come STM-4 at 622.08 Mb/s and STM-16 at 2488.32 Mb/s. The other difference is in the overhead bytes which are defined slightly differently for SDH. A common misconception is that STM-Ns are formed by multiplexing STM-1s. STM-1s, STM-4s and STM-16s that terminate on a network node are broken down to recover the VCs which they contain. The outbound STM-Ns are then reconstructed with new overheads.
Q. What are the advantages of SDH over PDH ?
The increased configuration flexibility and bandwidth availability of SDH provides significant advantages over the older telecommunications system.
These advantages include:
A reduction in the amount of equipment and an increase in network reliability.
The provision of overhead and payload bytes – the overhead bytes permitting management of the payload bytes on an individual basis and facilitating centralized Fault sectionalisation.-nearly 5% of signal structure allocated for this purpose.
The definition of a synchronous multiplexing format for carrying lower-level digital signals (such as 2 Mbit/s, 34 Mbit/s, 140 Mbit/s) which greatly simplifies the interface to digital switches, digital cross-connects, and add-drop multiplexers.
The availability of a set of generic standards, which enable multi-vendor interoperability.
The definition of a flexible architecture capable of accommodating future applications, with a variety of transmission rates.Existing & future signals can be accomodated.
Q. What are the main limitations of PDH ?
The main limitations of PDH are:
Inability to identify individual channels in a higher-order bit stream.
Insufficient capacity for network management
Most PDH network management is proprietary
There’s no standardised definition of PDH bit rates greater than 140 Mbit/s
There are different hierarchies in use around the world. Specialized interface equipment is required to interwork the two hierarchies
Q. What are some timing/sync defining rules of thumb?
1. A node can only receive the synchronization referencesignal from another node that contains a clock ofequivalent or superior quality (Stratum level).
2. The facilities with the greatest availability (absence of outages) should be selected forsynchronization facilities.
3. Where possible, all primary and secondary synchronization facilities should be diverse, and synchronization facilities within the same cable should be minimized.
4. The total number of nodes in series from the stratum 1 source should be minimized. For example, the primary synchronization network would ideally look like a star configuration with the stratum 1 source at the center. The nodes connected to the star would branch out in decreasing stratum level from the center
5. No timing loops may be formed in any combination of primary
Q. What is meant by “Plesiochronous” ?
If two digital signals are Plesiochronous, their transitions occur at “almost” the same rate, with any variation being constrained within tight limits. These limits are set down in ITU-T recommendation G.811. For example, if two networks need to interwork, their clocks may be derived from two different PRCs. Although these clocks are extremely accurate, there’s a small frequency difference between one clock and the other. This is known as a plesiochronous difference.
Q. What is meant by “Synchronous” ?
In a set of Synchronous signals, the digital transitions in the signals occur at exactly the same rate. There may however be a phase difference between the transitions of the two signals, and this would lie within specified limits. These phase differences may be due to propagation time delays, or low-frequency wander introduced in the transmission network. In a synchronous network, all the clocks are traceable to one Stratum 1 Primary Reference Clock (PRC).
Q. What is meant by “Asynchronous” ?
In the case of Asynchronous signals, the transitions of the signals don’t necessarily occur at the same nominal rate. Asynchronous, in this case, means that the difference between two clocks is much greater than a plesiochronous difference. For example, if two clocks are derived from free-running quartz oscillators, they could be described as asynchronous.
Q. What are the various steps in multiplexing ?
The multiplexing principles of SDH follow, using these terms and definitions:
Mapping: A process used when tributaries are adapted into Virtual Containers (VCs) by adding justification bits and Path Overhead (POH) information.
Aligning: This process takes place when a pointer is included in a Tributary Unit (TU) or an Administrative Unit (AU), to allow the first byte of the Virtual Container to be located.
Multiplexing: This process is used when multiple lower-order path layer signals are adapted into a higher-order path signal, or when the higher-order path signals are adapted into a Multiplex Section.
Stuffing: As the tributary signals are multiplexed and aligned, some spare capacity has been designed into the SDH frame to provide enough space for all the various tributary rates. Therefore, at certain points in the multiplexing hierarchy, this space capacity is filled with “fixed stuffing” bits that carry no information, but are required to fill up the particular frame.
Explain 1+1 protection. In 1+1 protection switching, there is a protection facility (backup line) for each working facility At the near end the optical signal is bridged permanently (split into two signals) and sent over both the working and the protection facilities simultaneously, producing a working signal and a protection signal that are identical.At the Far End of the section, both signalsare monitored independently for failures. The receiving equipment selects either the working or the protection signal. This selection is based on the switch initiation criteria which are either a signal fail (hard failure such as the loss of frame (LOF) within an optical signal), or a signal degrade (soft failure caused by the error rate exceeding some pre-defined value).
Explain 1:N protection. In 1:N protection switching, there is one protection facility for several working facilities (the range is from 1 to 14). In 1:N protection architecture, all communication from the Near End to the Far End is carried out over the APS channel, using the K1 and K2 bytes. All switching is revertive; that is, the traffic reverts to the working facility as soon as the failure has been corrected.
In 1:N protection switching, optical signals are normally sent only over the working facilities, with the protection facility being kept free until a working facility fails.
Q. If voice traffic is still intelligible to the listener in a relatively poor communication channel, why isn’t it easy to pass it across a network optimized for data?
A. Data communication requires very low Bit-error Ratio (BER) for high throughput but does not require constrained propagation, processing, or storage delay. Voice calls, on the other hand, are insensitive to relatively high BER, but very sensitive to delay over a threshold of a few tens of milliseconds. This insensitivity to BER is a function of the human brain’s ability to interpolate the message content, while sensitivity to delay stems from the interactive nature (full-duplex) of voice calls. Data networks are optimized for bit integrity, but end-to-end delay and delay variation are not directly controlled. Delay variation can vary widely for a given connection, since the dynamic path routing schemes typical of some data networks may involve varying numbers of nodes (for example, routers). In addition, the echo-cancellers deployed to handle known excess delay on a long voice path are automatically disabled when the path is used for data. These factors tend to disqualify data networks for voice transport if traditional public switched telephone network (PSTN) quality is desired.
Q. How does synchronization differ from timing?
A. These terms are commonly used interchangeably to refer to the process of providing suitable accurate clocking frequencies to the components of the synchronous network. The terms are sometimes used differently. In cellular wireless systems, for example, “timing” is often applied to ensure close alignment (in real time) of control pulses from different transmitters; “synchronization” refers to the control of clocking frequencies.
Q. If I adopt sync status messages in my sync distribution plan, do I have to worry about timing loops?
A. Yes. Source Specific Multicasts (SSMs) are certainly a very useful tool for minimizing the occurrence of timing loops, but in some complex connectivities they are not able to absolutely preclude timing loop conditions. In a site with multiple Synchronous Optical Network (SONET) rings, for example, there are not enough capabilities for communicating all the necessary SSM information between the SONET network elements and the Timing Signal Generator (TSG) to cover the potential timing paths under all fault conditions. Thus, a comprehensive fault analysis is still required when SSMs are deployed to ensure that a timing loop does not develop.
Q. If ATM is asynchronous by definition, why is synchronization even mentioned in the same sentence?
A. The term Asynchronous Transfer Mode applies to layer 2 of the OSI 7-layer model (the data link layer), whereas the term synchronous network applies to layer 1 (the physical layer). Layers 2, 3, and so on, always require a physical layer which, for ATM, is typically SONET or Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH); thus the “asynchronous” ATM system is often associated with a “synchronous” layer 1. In addition, if the ATM network offers circuit emulation service (CES), also referred to as constant bit-rate (CBR), then synchronous operation (that is, traceability to a primary reference source) is required to support the preferred timing transport mechanism, Synchronous Residual Time Stamp (SRTS).
Q. Most network elements have internal stratum 3 clocks with 4.6ppm accuracy, so why does the network master clock need to be as accurate as one part in 10^11?
A. Although the requirements for a stratum 3 clock specify a free-run accuracy (also pull-in range) of 4.6ppm, a network element (NE) operating in a synchronous environment is never in free-run mode. Under normal conditions, the NE internal clock tracks (and is described as being a traceable to) a Primary Reference Source that meets stratum 1 long-term accuracy of one part in 10^11.
This accuracy was originally chosen because it was available as a national primary reference source from a cesium-beam oscillator, and it ensured adequately low slip-rate at international gateways.
Note: If primary reference source (PRS) traceability is lost by the NE, it enters holdover mode. In this mode, the NE clock’s tracking phase lock loop (PLL) does not revert to its free-run state, it freezes its control point at the last valid tracking value. The clock accuracy then drifts elegantly away from the desired traceable value, until the fault is repaired and traceability is restored.
Q. What are the acceptable limits for slip and/or pointer adjustment rates when designing a sync network?
A. When designing a network’s synchronization distribution sub-system, the targets for sync performance are zero slips and zero pointer adjustments during normal conditions. In a real-world network, there are enough uncontrolled variables that these targets will not be met over any reasonable time, but it is not acceptable practice to design for a given level of degradation (with the exception of multiple timing island operation, when a worst-case slip-rate of no more than one slip in 72 days between islands is considered negligible). The zero-tolerance design for normal conditions is supported by choosing distribution architectures and clocking components that limit slip-rates and pointer adjustment rates to acceptable levels of degradation during failure (usually double-failure) conditions.
Q. Why is it necessary to spend time and effort on synchronization in telecom networks when the basic requirement is simple, and when computer LANs have never bothered with it?
A. The requirement for PRS traceability of all signals in a synchronous network at all times is certainly simple, but it is deceptively simple. The details of how to provide traceability in a geographically distributed matrix of different types of equipment at different signal levels, under normal and multiple-failure conditions, in a dynamically evolving network, are the concerns of every sync coordinator. Given the number of permutations and combinations of all these factors, the behavior of timing signals in a real-world environment must be described and analyzed statistically. Thus, sync distribution network design is based on minimizing the probability of losing traceability while accepting the reality that this probability can never be zero.
Q. How many stratum 2 and/or stratum 3E TSGs can be chained either in parallel or series from a PRS?
A. There are no defined figures in industry standards. The sync network designer must choose sync distribution architecture and the number of PRSs and then the number and quality of TSGs based on cost-performance trade-offs for the particular network and its services.
Q. Is synchronization required for non-traditional services such as voice-over-IP?
A. The answer to this topical question depends on the performance required (or promised) for the service. Usually, Voice-over-IP is accepted to have a low quality reflecting its low cost (both relative to traditional PSTN voice service). If a high slip-rate and interruptions can be accepted, then the voice terminal clocks could well be free-running. If, however, a high voice quality is the objective (especially if voice-band modems including Fax are to be accommodated) then you must control slip occurrence to a low probability by synchronization to industry standards. You must analyze any new service or delivery method for acceptable performance relative to the expectations of the end-user before you can determine the need for synchronization.
Q. Why is a timing loop so bad, and why is it so difficult to fix?
A. Timing loops are inherently unacceptable because they preclude having the affected NEs synchronized to the PRS. The clock frequencies are traceable to an unpredictable unknown quantity; that is, the hold-in frequency limit of one of the affected NE clocks. By design, this is bound to be well outside the expected accuracy of the clock after several days in holdover, so performance is guaranteed to become severely degraded.
The difficulty in isolating the instigator of a timing loop condition is a function of two factors: first, the cause is unintentional (a lack of diligence in analyzing all fault conditions, or an error in provisioning, for example) so no obvious evidence exists in the network’s documentation. Secondly, there are no sync-specific alarms, since each affected NE accepts the situation as normal. Consequently, you must carry out trouble isolation without the usual maintenance tools, relying on a knowledge of the sync distribution topology and on an analysis of data on slip counts and pointer counts that is not usually automatically correlated.
Q.How do you get value of an E1 as 2.048Mbps?
A.As we know that voice signal is of frequency 3.3 Khz,and as per the Nyquist Rate or PCM quantization rate for transmission we required signal of >=2f(here ‘f’ is GIF [3.3]=4).and each sample of data is a byte. DS0: provides one 64kbps channel.E1: 32 DS0 or 32 channels with 64kbps
Also we know that voice signal frame consisits of 32 bytes .Hence value of an E1 will be
=2x4Khzx8bitsx32slots
=2.048Mbps
OR
PCM multiplexing is carried out with the sampling process, sampling the analog sources sequentially. These
sources may be the nominal 4-kHz voice channels or other information sources that have a 4-kHz bandwidth, such as data or freeze-frame video. The final result of the sampling and subsequent quantization and coding is a series of electrical pulses, a serial bit stream of 1s and 0s that requires some identification or indication of the beginning of a sampling sequence. This identification is necessary so that the far-end receiver knows exactly when the sampling sequence starts. Once the receiver receives the “indication,” it knows a priori (in the case of DS1) that 24 eight-bit slots follow. It synchronizes the receiver. Such identification is carried out by a framing bit, and one full sequence or cycle of samples is called a frame in PCM terminology.
Consider the framing structure of E1
PCM system using 8-level coding (e.g., 2^8= 256 quantizing steps or distinct PCM code words). Actually 256 samples of a signal will be sufficient to regenerate the original signal and each signal is made up of 1 or 0.
The E1 European PCM system is a 32-channel system. Of the 32 channels, 30 transmit speech (or data) derived from incoming telephone trunks and the remaining 2 channels transmit synchronization-alignment and signaling information. Each channel is allotted an 8-bit time slot (TS), and we tabulate TS 0 through 31 as follows:
TS TYPE OF INFORMATION
0 Synchronizing (framing)
1–15 Speech
16 Signaling
17–31 Speech
In TS 0 a synchronizing code or word is transmitted every second frame, occupying digits 2 through 8 as 0011011. In those frames without the synchronizing word, the second bit of TS 0 is frozen at a 1 so that in these frames the synchronizing word cannot be imitated. The remaining bits of TS 0 can be used for the transmission of supervisory information signals .Again, E1 in its primary rate format transmits 32 channels of 8-bit time slots. An E1 frame therefore has 8*32 =256 bits. There is no framing bit. Framing alignment is
carried out in TS 0.
The E1 bit rate to the line is:256 *8000 = 2, 048, 000 bps or 2.048 Mbps
Question for you Electrical E1 is ac or dc in nature????
Tell me about yourself: – The most often asked question in interviews. You need to have a short statement prepared in your mind. Be careful that it does not sound rehearsed. Limit it to work-related items unless instructed otherwise. Talk about things you have done and jobs you have held that relate to the position you are interviewing for. Start with the item farthest back and work up to the present.
Why did you leave your last job? – Stay positive regardless of the circumstances. Never refer to a major problem with management and never speak ill of supervisors, co-workers or the organization. If you do, you will be the one looking bad. Keep smiling and talk about leaving for a positive reason such as an opportunity, a chance to do something special or other forward-looking reasons.
What experience do you have in this field? – Speak about specifics that relate to the position you are applying for. If you do not have specific experience, get as close as you can.
Do you consider yourself successful? – You should always answer yes and briefly explain why. A good explanation is that you have set goals, and you have met some and are on track to achieve the others.
What do co-workers say about you? – Be prepared with a quote or two from co-workers. Either a specific statement or a paraphrase will work. Jill Clark, a co-worker at Smith Company, always said I was the hardest workers she had ever known. It is as powerful as Jill having said it at the interview herself.
What do you know about this organization? – This question is one reason to do some research on the organization before the interview. Find out where they have been and where they are going. What are the current issues and who are the major players?
What have you done to improve your knowledge in the last year? – Try to include improvement activities that relate to the job. A wide variety of activities can be mentioned as positive self-improvement. Have some good ones handy to mention.
Are you applying for other jobs? – Be honest but do not spend a lot of time in this area. Keep the focus on this job and what you can do for this organization. Anything else is a distraction.
Why do you want to work for this organization? – This may take some thought and certainly, should be based on the research you have done on the organization. Sincerity is extremely important here and will easily be sensed. Relate it to your long-term career goals.
Do you know anyone who works for us? – Be aware of the policy on relatives working for the organization. This can affect your answer even though they asked about friends not relatives. Be careful to mention a friend only if they are well thought of.
What kind of salary do you need? – A loaded question. A nasty little game that you will probably lose if you answer first. So, do not answer it. Instead, say something like, That’s a tough question. Can you tell me the range for this position? In most cases, the interviewer, taken off guard, will tell you. If not, say that it can depend on the details of the job. Then give a wide range.
Are you a team player? – You are, of course, a team player. Be sure to have examples ready. Specifics that show you often perform for the good of the team rather than for yourself are good evidence of your team attitude. Do not brag, just say it in a matter-of-fact tone. This is a key point.
How long would you expect to work for us if hired? – Specifics here are not good. Something like this should work: I’d like it to be a long time. Or As long as we both feel I’m doing a good job.
Have you ever had to fire anyone? How did you feel about that? – This is serious. Do not make light of it or in any way seem like you like to fire people. At the same time, you will do it when it is the right thing to do. When it comes to the organization versus the individual who has created a harmful situation, you will protect the organization. Remember firing is not the same as layoff or reduction in force.
What is your philosophy towards work? – The interviewer is not looking for a long or flowery dissertation here. Do you have strong feelings that the job gets done? Yes. That’s the type of answer that works best here. Short and positive, showing a benefit to the organization.
If you had enough money to retire right now, would you? – Answer yes if you would. But since you need to work, this is the type of work you prefer. Do not say yes if you do not mean it.
Have you ever been asked to leave a position? – If you have not, say no. If you have, be honest, brief and avoid saying negative things about the people or organization involved.
Explain how you would be an asset to this organization – You should be anxious for this question. It gives you a chance to highlight your best points as they relate to the position being discussed. Give a little advance thought to this relationship.
Why should we hire you? – Point out how your assets meet what the organization needs. Do not mention any other candidates to make a comparison.
Tell me about a suggestion you have made – Have a good one ready. Be sure and use a suggestion that was accepted and was then considered successful. One related to the type of work applied for is a real plus.
What irritates you about co-workers? – This is a trap question. Think real hard but fail to come up with anything that irritates you. A short statement that you seem to get along with folks is great.
What is your greatest strength? – Numerous answers are good, just stay positive. A few good examples: Your ability to prioritize, Your problem-solving skills, Your ability to work under pressure, Your ability to focus on projects, Your professional expertise, Your leadership skills, Your positive attitude .
Tell me about your dream job – Stay away from a specific job. You cannot win. If you say the job you are contending for is it, you strain credibility. If you say another job is it, you plant the suspicion that you will be dissatisfied with this position if hired. The best is to stay genetic and say something like: A job where I love the work, like the people, can contribute and can’t wait to get to work.
Why do you think you would do well at this job? – Give several reasons and include skills, experience and interest.
What kind of person would you refuse to work with? – Do not be trivial. It would take disloyalty to the organization, violence or lawbreaking to get you to object. Minor objections will label you as a whiner.
What is more important to you: the money or the work? – Money is always important, but the work is the most important. There is no better answer.
What would your previous supervisor say your strongest point is? – There are numerous good possibilities: Loyalty, Energy, Positive attitude, Leadership, Team player, Expertise, Initiative, Patience, Hard work, Creativity, Problem solver
Tell me about a problem you had with a supervisor – Biggest trap of all. This is a test to see if you will speak ill of your boss. If you fall for it and tell about a problem with a former boss, you may well below the interview right there. Stay positive and develop a poor memory about any trouble with a supervisor.
What has disappointed you about a job? – Don’t get trivial or negative. Safe areas are few but can include: Not enough of a challenge. You were laid off in a reduction Company did not win a contract, which would have given you more responsibility.
Tell me about your ability to work under pressure – You may say that you thrive under certain types of pressure. Give an example that relates to the type of position applied for.
Do your skills match this job or another job more closely? – Probably this one. Do not give fuel to the suspicion that you may want another job more than this one.
What motivates you to do your best on the job? – This is a personal trait that only you can say, but good examples are: Challenge, Achievement, Recognition
Are you willing to work overtime? Nights? Weekends? – This is up to you. Be totally honest.
How would you know you were successful on this job? – Several ways are good measures: You set high standards for yourself and meet them. Your outcomes are a success.Your boss tell you that you are successful
Would you be willing to relocate if required? – You should be clear on this with your family prior to the interview if you think there is a chance it may come up. Do not say yes just to get the job if the real answer is no. This can create a lot of problems later on in your career. Be honest at this point and save yourself future grief.
Are you willing to put the interests of the organization ahead of your own? – This is a straight loyalty and dedication question. Do not worry about the deep ethical and philosophical implications. Just say yes.
Describe your management style. – Try to avoid labels. Some of the more common labels, like progressive, salesman or consensus, can have several meanings or descriptions depending on which management expert you listen to. The situational style is safe, because it says you will manage according to the situation, instead of one size fits all.
What have you learned from mistakes on the job? – Here you have to come up with something or you strain credibility. Make it small, well intentioned mistake with a positive lesson learned. An example would be working too far ahead of colleagues on a project and thus throwing coordination off.
Do you have any blind spots? – Trick question. If you know about blind spots, they are no longer blind spots. Do not reveal any personal areas of concern here. Let them do their own discovery on your bad points. Do not hand it to them.
If you were hiring a person for this job, what would you look for? – Be careful to mention traits that are needed and that you have.
Do you think you are overqualified for this position? – Regardless of your qualifications, state that you are very well qualified for the position.
How do you propose to compensate for your lack of experience? – First, if you have experience that the interviewer does not know about, bring that up: Then, point out (if true) that you are a hard working quick learner.
What qualities do you look for in a boss? – Be generic and positive. Safe qualities are knowledgeable, a sense of humor, fair, loyal to subordinates and holder of high standards. All bosses think they have these traits.
Tell me about a time when you helped resolve a dispute between others. – Pick a specific incident. Concentrate on your problem solving technique and not the dispute you settled.
What position do you prefer on a team working on a project? – Be honest. If you are comfortable in different roles, point that out.
Describe your work ethic. – Emphasize benefits to the organization. Things like, determination to get the job done and work hard but enjoy your work are good.
What has been your biggest professional disappointment? – Be sure that you refer to something that was beyond your control. Show acceptance and no negative feelings.
Tell me about the most fun you have had on the job. – Talk about having fun by accomplishing something for the organization.
Do you have any questions for me? – Always have some questions prepared. Questions prepared where you will be an asset to the organization are good. How soon will I be able to be productive? and What type of projects will I be able to assist on? are examples.
P.S: revert for new ideas and questions
Some of the FAQs for Optical System Timing are:
Q. How do I time SONET NEs shelves in a central office environment?
A. Each SONET NEsshelf should be externally referenced to the BITS clock in the office. If a BITS clock is not available in the office, a traffic-carrying DS1 from the local switch may be bridged (for example, using a bridging repeater) as the reference to the SONET NEsshelf. Line timing may also be used, but at least one SONET NE shelf in the network must be externally timed.
Q. Where do I use the DS1 timing output feature?
A. The primary application is for supplying a timing reference to the office BITS clock. This allows the BITS clock to be slaved to a BITS clock in another office that is, in turn, traceable to the primary reference source (PRS). Typically, the SONET NE supplying the DS1 timing output will, in turn, be externally timed by the BITS clock. If there is no BITS clock, the DS1 timing output can be used to time a switch or switch remote (if the switch remote is equipped for that option) directly or even another SONET NE Multiplexer.
Q. How do I prevent my BITS clock from using a DS1 timing output when a failure in the network results in this DS1 being timed from a SONET NE in holdover?
A. SONET sync messaging informs the local SONET NE of this condition, and AIS is inserted on the DS1 timing output.
What is the advantage of using the DS1 timing output instead of a multiplexed DS1 as the timing reference?
The DS1 timing output is derived from the optical line rate and is superior because:
The DS1 is virtually jitter-free
Sync messages guarantee the traceability of the timing
Administration of traffic DS1s for timing is eliminated.
Q. Can I ever use the SONET NE in the free-running timing mode?
A. If a PRS traceable external reference is available, it is the recommended timing mode for any/all CO applications. The free running timing mode can be used but a slight increase in jitter will result. If one SONET NE is provisioned for free running, all other SONET NEs in the network must be line timed and SONET interfaces to other equipment are not allowed. The DS1 timing output should not be enabled with a free running network.
Q. How do I provide timing to a central office host switch that does not have the option for an external reference?
A. DS1 carried over SONET may contain significant jitter/wander and be unacceptable to the switch as a timing reference. If the central office has a BITS clock, the recommendation is to use the output from the BITS clock into an unused DS1 traffic port on the switch. If the central office does not have a BITS clock, the recommendation is to use the DS1 timing output from the SONET NE as the line timing reference into an unused DS1 traffic port on the switch.
Q. Can a DS1 carried over SONET ever be used as a timing reference?
A. YES! In many applications there is no other choice. Most switch remotes, for instance, obtain their timing from a specific DS1 signal generated by their host switch, so these remotes must line time from the DS1 signal. In addition, DLC equipment, channel banks, and PBXs will not likely have external references and may be allowed to line time from a DS1 carried over SONET.
Q. Are there any specific concerns when using a DS1 carried over SONET to time equipment such as a switch remote or DLC?
A. Yes. The major concern is to make sure all the equipment is synchronous. The SONET NEs should be synchronous to each other to prevent pointer adjustments. This can be accomplished by having one source SONET that is externally timed. The other SONET NEs in the network should be line timed, or they should be externally timed to a clock to which they provide a DS1 timing output. The SONET NEs should also be synchronous to the switch to prevent excessive mapping jitter. This can be done by synchronizing the host switch to the BITS clock used to reference the SONET .
Q. Will I have any problems providing timing to a customer that has a high quality PBX or switch?
A. If the network is completely synchronous, as described in the previous answer, there should be no problems. If the PBX is sensitive to the jitter produced, even under the synchronous conditions, the DS1 timing output of SONET may be required to be used as a timing reference to this equipment.
Q. Why does Bellcore say that DS1s carried over SONET should not be used for timing?
A. Bellcore has provided this recommendation because there are several limitations. Bellcore says that DS1s carried over SONET must be used in applications such as switch remotes and will be acceptable, provided pointer adjustments are not created.
Q. Can pointer adjustments be prevented?
A. Neither random nor periodic pointer adjustments will occur if the SONET shelf is provisioned for line timing.
Q. How do I time SONET at a remote site?
A. Line time.
Q. How many SONET NEs can I chain together in an add/drop configuration before the timing becomes degraded?
A. The Stratum level traceability of the nth node in an add/drop chain is the same as that in the first node. Also, while timing jitter will theoretically increase as the number of nodes is increased, the high quality timing recovery and filtering on the SONET allows add/drop chains to be extended to any practical network limit without detectable increases in jitter levels. In practice, the only effects on timing at the nth node will occur whenever high-speed protection switches occur in any of the previous n-1 nodes. These effects should be rare.
Q. How do I time a SONET ring network?
A. An interoffice ring should have each node externally timed if BITS clocks are available. All other rings should have one node externally timed (two in some dual homing architectures) and the rest of the nodes line timed. Synchronization reconfiguration is automatic.
Q. Why are there more issues related to timing with SONET equipment than there are with asynchronous equipment?
A. SONET equipment was designed to work ideally in a synchronous network. When the network is not synchronous, mechanisms such as pointer processing and bit-stuffing must be used and jitter/wander increases.
Q. Can DS3 signals be used to carry DS1 timing signals without the worry of having the network synchronous?
A. Yes, although this option is more expensive.
Q. What are the limitations on automatic synchronization reconfiguration?
A. Automatic synchronization reconfiguration is only available when the SONET is provisioned for line timing mode. This allows the timing direction of an OC-n (OC-12, OC-48, or OC-192) ring network to change automatically in response to a failure. When the SONET is provisioned for external timing, automatic synchronization reconfiguration is not available. When an OC-n fault is detected in the timing direction, AIS is inserted on the derived DS1s which forces the BITS to switch to another good timing source or into holdover preventing timing loops.
Q. How do I synchronize a BITS clock and maintain automatic synchronization reconfiguration on a SONET ring?
A. Provision all but the host node (node with co-located PRS) for line timing. Provide each non-host BITS clock with a pair of derived DS1s. The SONET will detect faults and provide the BITS clocks with good inputs if available. Timing loops will be prevented. The host node should be set for external timing and get its timing from an externally timed BITS clock. To prevent a timing loop, the host BITS clock should get its timing from a PRS traceable source. The non-host nodes should not be timed from the co-located BITS clock since this would disable the automatic synchronization reconfiguration feature.
For more: visit:- http://www.sonet.com/
The number one way to ace to an interview is to know yourself! Always complete your research before an interview: know the kinds of things you are good at, the kind of things that you may need to work on, the kinds of experiences you’ve had in the past, what kind of boss you’d like to work for, what kind of company you’d like to work for, etc.
Questions that revolve around potential negatives are always the toughest to answer. Prepare for them by thinking about answers ahead of time. Type up answers or write them out, and review them before going into the interview. It is like studying concise, and then stopping and seeing if the interviewer wants to pursue it further.
The following questions have been identified as some of the toughest in the interviewing business. These are the ones you need to prepare for ahead of time!
1. Tell me about yourself.
Probably the easiest difficult question you will face! It is easy to talk about you, but what does the employer really want to know? Try talking about personal characteristics and skills that translate into career strengths. Develop a one minute commercial for yourself. In one minute, tell someone from your high school days upward why you chose the college you did; what you did in college and why you made the decision to go into your particular field.
Typically the interviewer is looking for an overview of your related experience. Provide an answer that shows a logical progression throughout your educational/professional career. If your educational background led you in a certain direction, include that in the overview. While this may be seen as an easy question for some, quite a few solid candidates blundered on this simple question. We are not used to selling our abilities and competencies like a product. For those who have given it some thought, this is the right opportunity to talk about your strengths such as your enthusiasm, leadership, self-confidence and reliability, with a few real life anecdotes thrown in to support your points.
EXAMPLE: “I love to jump into projects with both feet. I can concentrate on solving a tech problem for hours, although I know to effectively use my time I need to consult my colleagues for their expertise, and often convene brief project team meetings bounce around a solution, plotting it out, and preparing a presentation for my boss. Object oriented technology [or any other skill] is my newest challenge.”
EXAMPLE: “My background to date has been centered on planning myself to become the very best I can become.
Let me tell you specifically how I’ve prepared myself…”
2. What are your greatest strengths?
You certainly have many positive qualities, but since you can only choose a few, be careful as your answer will also reflect your values. Some might say honesty, other reliability or a strong sense of leadership, but whatever it might be, be ready to make reference to a situation where you have demonstrated such strength. Examples help solidify and support your strengths.
3. What is your greatest weakness?
Admit that you have a weakness, and that you are successfully using a strategy to improve this weak are you have realized in your professional array of skills and experience. This technique turns the weakness into a strength by demonstrating your commitment to self improvement.
EXAMPLE: “I would say that my greatest weakness has been a lack of proper planning in the past. I would overcommit myself with too many variant tasks, then not b able to fully accomplish each as I would like. However, since I’ve come to recognize that weakness, I’ve taken steps to correct it. For example, I now carry my palm pilot at all times so that I can effectively plan my appointments and “to do list” items.”
4. What were your favorite subjects in school and why?
Of course, if your major is Computer Science, you want to mention some of your computer science classes. You can mention other related subjects as well. For example, if you’re interviewing at a financial services firm, you might discuss why you liked your accounting or finance classes. If you did any usual or special projects in that area bring it up now. Mention anything that shoes keen interests in this employer’s particular kind of work.
5. Why change jobs now?
Interviewers want to now your reasons for leaving a particular position/employer. It is important to stay positive about your past experiences. Nobody wants to hire a person that complains about past employersthey figure you may complain about them in the future. Talk about why it was time to move on, that you learned a lot, you are seeking new and more challenging opportunities, etc.
6. What makes you stand out when compared with your peers?
Employers want to know that they are considering someone who will go above and beyond the call of duty. It is easy to hire a person that will do that they are asked to do between nine and five. However, it is better to hire a person that meets all the
basic expectations and more. Provide examples of projects which you excelled with, ideas that helped streamline operations, or new sales/marketing techniques that increased revenues. If you put some thought into it, there are probably several things you have accomplishes in the past that makes you stand out.
7. What type of management / supervision do you prefer?
This question can come in many forms, but the meaning is always the same: are you able to be managed by people with different styles? You probably have reported to managers with vastly different approaches to management and supervision, and have learned which styles you prefer. Since you probably do not know the manager’s style at the prospective employer, talk about the positive aspects of each style you’ve encountered.
8. What do you like about your current position? What would you add to make it more challenging?
Interviewers are looking for people that have some relevant experience for the position offered. This question allows you to pick the responsibilities that you enjoyed that are also included in the available position. (I like the people is NOT an acceptable answer, unless you are taking them with you!) The second part of this question focuses on what you want to learn in your next job. If it were available in your present/last position, you would still be there. Think about what this position offers and what you can contribute. This should match well with that you want to learn/do.
9. Where do you see yourself in (X) years?
This may be the toughest question of them all! If you only had a crystal ball! Basically, however, Interviewers are doing a reality check here. They want to see if you are a realistic about your career goals and the steps you will need to take to attain them.
The best answers start in the present and work forward. Talk about your next move and what you hope to accomplish over the next year or two. Then take that one or two more steps. Most importantly, keep your dreams within the realm of reality.
10. Why should we hire you for this position?
This question is as straightforward as they come. If you’ve prepared for the interview ahead of time, this one should be easy. Your answer should focus on your experience, accomplishments, why you are different than your peers, and your work ethic, as they pertain to the specific job description. If you handled the interview well up to this point, you are just tying it all together.
11. What books/magazines do you read?
Obviously, a technical or trade journal is one answer they are looking for. The books you’ve read tell the manager something about you personality. Whatever you do, don’t say, “I don’t like to read.”
12. What interests you most about this position?
Your education, training and experience as well as your accomplishments should provide good references for answering that question. Do not hesitate to stress the fact that this would represent a dynamic move, while giving you the opportunity to grow, to increase your responsibilities and knowledge of the field, and may possibly help you define and reach new goals.
13. Do you work well under pressure?
Of course everyone will say yes, but it is more convincing if you could provide examples of situations when you have remained cool under fire. Be careful not to choose a situation of crisis for which you were the one responsible!
14. If you could change one thing about your personality, what would it be, and why?
Make the answer to this question positive by referencing your attitude and determination. Comments such as “I am sometimes impatient with slow performers” or “Being very demanding of myself” or “Sometimes I expect too much from others” are good. Keep in mind that most interviewers will use the information you give them to raise even more incisive questions.
15. How has your education prepared you for your career?
EXAMPLE: “As you will note on my resume, I’ve taken not only the required core classes in the field, I’ve also gone above and beyond. I’ve taken every class the college has to offer in the field and also completed an independent study project specifically in this area. But it’s not just taking the classes to gin academic knowledgeI’ve taken each class both inside and outside of my major, with this profession in mind. So when we’re studying in , I’ve viewed it from the perspective of . In addition, I’ve always tried to keep practical view of how the information would apply to my job. Not just theory, but how it would actually apply. My capstone course project in my final semester involved developing a realworld model of , which is very similar to what might be used within your company. Let me tell you about it…”
16. Are you a team player?
EXAMPLE: “Very much so. In fact, I’ve had opportunities in both athletics and academics to develop my skills as a team player. I was involved in at the intramural level, including leading my team in assists during the past yearI always try to help others achieve their best. In academics, I’ve worked on several team projects, serving as both a member and a team leader. I’ve seen the value of working together as a team to achieve a higher goal than any one of us could have achieved individually. As an example…”
17. Have you ever had a conflict with a boss or professor? How was it resolved?
EXAMPLE: “Yes, I have had conflicts in the past. Never major ones, but certainly there have been situations where there was a disagreement that needed to be resolved. I’ve found that when conflict occurs, it’s because of a failure to see both sides of a situation. Therefore, I ask the other person to give me their perspective and at the same time ask that they allow me to fully explain my perspective. At that point, I would work with the person to find out if a compromise could be reached. If not, I would submit their decision because they are my superior. In the end, you have to be willing to submit yourself to the directives of your superior, whether you’re in full agreement or not. An example of this was when…”
18. If I asked your professors to describe you, what would they say?
EXAMPLE: “I believe they would say I am very energetic person, that I put my mind to the task at hand and see to it that it’s accomplished. They would say that if they ever had something that to be done, I was the person who they could always depend on to see that it was accomplished. They would say that I always took a keen interest in the subjects that I was studying and always sought ways to apply the knowledge in real world settings. Am I just guessing that they would say these things? No, in fact, I am quite certain they would say those things because I have them with me in several letters of recommendation from my professors, and those are their very words.”
19. What qualities do you feel a successful manager should have?
EXAMPLE: “The key quality should be leadership the ability to be the visionary for the people who are working under them; the person who can set the course and direction for subordinates. A manager should also be a positive role model for others to follow. The highest calling of a true leader is inspiring others to reach the highest of their abilities. I’d like to tell you about a person who I consider to be a true leader…”
20. If you had to live your life over again, what would you change?
EXAMPLE: “That’s a good question. I realize that it can be very easy to look back and wish that things had been different in the past. But I also realize that things in the past cannot be changed, that only things in the future can be changed. That’s why I continually strive to improve myself everyday and that is why I am working hard to become the very best your company has ever had to make a positive change. So in answer to your question, there isn’t anything in my past that I would change. I look to the future to make changes in my life.”
21. Why were you fired from your last job?
If you were fired wrongfully, say it matter of factly. Do not show a grudge against your old employer. If you were fired because something that was your fault, say it in a less damaging way.
EXAMPLE: “I cut prices on our product to make a customer happy without asking my superior. The company lost money and I was fired because of that. I agree it was my faultI should have asked my superior. I have learned my lesson and it will never happen again.”
22. It’s been 6 years since you started your bachelor’s degree, why aren’t you finished?
Be as positive as possible and explain your reasons calmly and logically. Never answer the following: you are having too much fun and did not have time, you do not think a degree is important, etc.
23. If you join our company, and another company offers you more money, will you leave? Or, how long will you stay with us?
If you say yes, you will probably not get the job. If you want, you can tell them that the salary will make you happy and keep you with this company. For example, you might say something like, “If I accept the job, then that means that I also accept the salary and I do not think I will leave.” Concerning your length of employment longer is better. You may want to discuss that you want to stay at your next job as long as the relationship is mutually beneficial.
24. What are the things in a job that make you more productive? Less productive?
Remember, no work environment is 100% perfect. You can’t please all of the people all of the time. However, we adapt and make the best of what we have. So make your answer practical.
25. Why have you been unemployed for the last two years?
You must have a sound reason for not working so long or having a big gap in your work history. Some examples of good reason would be: Caring for a sick family member; Raising children; Looking for the right job where you can really contribute (this will not work if the period of unemployment was an extremely long time); Trying out self employment or owning your own business; Returning to school for further training; Learning new skills; Exploring or traveling (for a short gap only).
26. At your last job, you worked at the same position for five years without a promotion. Why?
Avoid saying anything negative. Tell the truth in a positive way.Its human unconscious bias, negative things stuck in mind for long.
EXAMPLE: “There was not much growth in our department. None of the people working in my department had been promoted. This is one of the reasons I am looking for a new employment opportunity.”
27. What salary are you looking for? Or, what kind of salary do you think you are worth?
Don’t be too specific – a range is often most comfortable for everyone to work with. Even better, ask if the company has a salary scale and base your answer on that. Remember, salary is related to market value. Research your worth before you get into the interview. Also, interviews are not ignorant. Research your market value and give a range
EXAMPLE: “I checked a few sites on the internet and found that the average salary for a web designer ranges from 45K to 60K per year in this geographic area, depending on the responsibilities and duties involved. I am not set on a specific number and am willing to negotiate.”
28. How many players are there in a soccer game?
This type of question has nothing to do with your career. Right or wrong answers do not matter. Interviewers want to see if you can manage with nonrelated subjects, and think on your feet. They might be testing your ability to reason, problem solve, and utilize resources.
EXAMPLE: “I am not sure but my guess would be at least two players on each side, one in the goal and one to play defense. I will put the number between seven and twelve on each team. I would definitely want to consult a colleague of mine who plays soccer if this was a game show right now – using phone a friend is important sometimes in utilizing available resources.
29. Do you have any questions?
If you have done your homework, you’ll have several questions to ask about the position, company, or industry. Having questions already prepared makes you appear motivated to excel in the interview, and generally organized and put together. If all else fails, ask the interviewer if they need any further clarification about your qualifications.
These questions and answers are collected from internet pool.