Heuristic algorithms for reliable multiplexed network design

A heuristic optimization algorithm is presented for topological optimization of wideband communication networks whose structure is based on a single central office and on a number of multiplexing centres. The reliability problem is discussed in detail introducing in the objective function a cost term related to the probability of failures. Optimization is performed in two steps. In the first step a tree non redundant network is determined, providing the starting configuration for the second step, in which redundant edges are introduced. Cross-connect devices replace multiplexers when suitable, and a very general mesh topology is created. Statistics on a large number of test networks are reported. Network costs and reliability performances are deeply investigated.