Physical Network Modelling

  • Thomas Muth

Abstract

Physical network models are defined on the highest integration level (lowest abstraction level) in the integration hierarchy. Contrary to lower integration levels (higher abstraction levels), physical network models exhibit almost no addressing transparency. If two physical nodes need to communicate, the sending node must identify a physical media connection endpoint, which is a nearly static identification. Also contrary to higher abstraction levels, physical nodes exhibit nearly no temporary existence. They either exist in a particular physical network model, or they don’t. We say “nearly” because:
  • Models in functional space do not include spatial dimensions. If those dimension are included in a model, a spatial network model is created as well, showing sites, cables, etc. A physical network model can then be mapped on the spatial model, whereby the physical network becomes integrated in a concrete network, and physical nodes get physical addresses as well. This form of integration is, however, outside SM&AML.

  • A physical node can be removed from a site or added to a site (electrically and/or physically). In this context we can say that the physical node has a temporary existence in a concrete network. Changes of this kind are performed by network operator activities, partly through the portion of the management system that handles physical network aspects. This form of temporary existence of physical nodes is also outside SM&AML.

Keywords

Network Interface Logical Network Physical Network Process Control System Internal View 
These keywords were added by machine and not by the authors. This process is experimental and the keywords may be updated as the learning algorithm improves.

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Copyright information

© Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2001

Authors and Affiliations

  • Thomas Muth
    • 1
  1. 1.HuddingeSweden

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