CN1554155A

CN1554155A - Network quality of service localizer

Info

Publication number: CN1554155A
Application number: CNA018187528A
Authority: CN
Inventors: ��D��ʷ��˹; 帕特里克D·史密斯; G; 罗伯特G·乌斯卡利
Original assignee: Motorola Inc
Current assignee: Motorola Solutions Inc
Priority date: 2000-11-13
Filing date: 2001-10-26
Publication date: 2004-12-08
Also published as: AU2002231253A1; EP1350334A4; WO2002039230A2; CA2429046A1; KR20030051808A; EP1350334A2; WO2002039230A3; JP2004524722A

Abstract

A method and apparatus for quality of service localization within a relatively time-invariant communications network, the method (700) consists of the steps of: receiving quality of service estimations for a plurality of communications mediums, wherein each of the plurality of communications mediums is defined between a respective one of a plurality of transmitters located within the communications network to a common receiving point of the communications network, wherein each communications medium is conveyed over at least one shared physical communications path and at least one non-shared physical communications path (702); and comparing the quality of service estimations in order to localize a respective quality of service estimation to a likely physical communication path within the communications network (706).

Description

Network quality of service localizer

This patent text is that the Application No. that people such as Smith submitted on May 15th, 2000 is No.09/571,068, and the part of " sliced bandwidth distortion prediction " follow-up.Also be that the Application No. that people such as Smith submitted on December 22nd, 1999 is No.09/470,890, the part of " with digital modulation decay autocorrelative method and device " follow-up.

Technical field

Present invention relates in general in the communication network estimation to service quality, in the inflexible communication system when relative to the estimation of the service quality of communication media.More specifically, the present invention relates to relatively the time in the inflexible communication system estimation to the alignment quality of the service in particular communications media or the physical communication paths.

Background technology

In communication system, in typical case,, send the signal that contains data to receiver by transmitter by communication media in the communication link or communication channel.In communication system, these signals are modulated and sent to transmitter with modulation system (for example QPSK, 16-QAM and 64-QAM) and predetermined data or the signal rate (for example 160k bits per second) of regulation.In typical case, communication media (also being called " medium " for short) has specific frequency or bandwidth range, and for example from 5MHz to 42MHz, in this scope, signal transmits on communication link.In addition, medium also refer to signal from transmitted from transmitter to receiver transmission the physical pathway of process.

Along with these signals that have data are propagated along the medium in the communication link, signal produces distortion, make the signal that received by respective receiver and the form of transmission change, noise level, nonlinearity, time delay and reflection are depended in this distortion, all these factors all (for example) depend on the frequency and the medium of signal in the medium.Especially, the amplitude of signal and phase place produce distortion, are synthesized together the channel distortion (medium dependent channel distortion) (being also referred to as " channel distortion ") that is called as the medium decision.If (for example) specify the channel distortion of the signal in the medium to produce acceptable signal-to-interference ratio, then receiver carries out demodulation to signal, and extracts data from signal.Under the disadvantageous situation, if channel distortion is excessive or signal to noise ratio is unacceptable, then receiver carries out demodulation to signal, may cause twisting the information of wherein carrying or data.

Utilization can obtain the estimation to the service quality in the particular communications media to the knowledge of channel distortion in the particular communications media (being the channel distortion of medium decision).Service quality in the particular communications media has limited the signal that can send and receive in communication media.For example, the quality of service impacts in the particular communications media level or the grade of service, i.e. the modulation level and the signal rate of the signal that can support of medium.Therefore, in order to determine possible service level in the particular medium, according to the service quality in the estimation decision particular medium of channel distortion.

In communication network, hope can in communication network between the arbitrary number node, estimate the channel distortion of communication media, thereby estimates the service quality of a plurality of parts in the network, and the indication about network health is provided.Between the many different nodes in communication network, communication network has comprised many communication medias.For example, the many communicators in the network (being user's set) are connected with hub, thereby, between each user's set and hub, all defined communication media.For specific medium, each communication media may have the channel distortion level of different medium decisions, for one or more communication medias, may cause different service quality to be estimated.Therefore, in fact each communication media in the communication network may support different service levels or grade, promptly has different service quality and estimates.

In addition, in these different communication medias, between user's set and hub separately, has the shared identical physical communication paths of a plurality of media (being also referred to as communication link) part.For example, in crossing over significantly the communication network of territory scope (for example hybrid fiber/coaxial (HFC) system), a node (for example user's set) may comprise the physical piece that many communication medias are shared in the physical communication paths of another one node (for example hub) from network.Therefore, if only the service quality of particular communications media in the communication network is simply estimated, then can not provide relevant information, show (for example) in the physical communication paths that communication media uses, be the quality which physical piece has limited the service that communication media supports on earth.

For the dynamic assignment communication network, wherein user's set dynamically is connected on the network routing device, be that PSTN (PSTN) switches hub, Local Area Network or wide area network (WAN), for this communication network, only allow network during the current physical connection network routing device being estimated with the specific service quality that is connected between the user's set.This estimation to service quality is according to user's set the ability that himself is connected to terminal equipment (collection network routing device) to be carried out.Because the physical connection path of current distribution is only effective to current communication, according to factors such as the distribution of Internet resources and network resource availabilities, the connection of carrying out subsequently, may comprise diverse physical connection path from network routing device to identical user's set.Therefore, estimate for any service quality that the communication media of the physical pathway that comprises current distribution carries out, will be only during connecting effectively, this is because in the distribution of being undertaken by network routing device subsequently, the physical pathway of being distributed may be different.Therefore, owing to distribute dynamic switching device in the network of physical connection, will blur the prediction of next service quality of the medium that is used for same subscriber.Therefore, thisly can not provide the indication of time dependent related network health, and this may be used to represent the faint point in the network, perhaps is used for representing the network portion of whole network internal fixation or the grade of service in the path to the estimation of service quality.

In non-dynamic assignment (is that the physical transfer path is known, and change to keep constant relatively in time) relative the time constant (transmitter and receiver position relative fixed each other) communication network in, in hybrid fiber/coaxial (HFC) system, the cost that the channel distortion of the medium of any particular communication medium in network decision is estimated is all very high, and may need with communication media in transmitter and the receiver isolated plant that carries out physical connection.For example, network provider couples together different device (for example transmitter and receiver), and each can both send and receive the signal with different service quality level, thereby determines whether medium can support such signal.Perhaps, network provider may be in communication path adaptive bandwidth of physical connection and signal rate scanning radio (for example Hewlett-Packard produce VSA HP89441 VSA), it can switch between height modulation level and signal rate, suitable transmitter of physical connection in communication path also simultaneously, it can send the signal with different modulating level and signal rate.Perhaps, can connect a network analyzer (being a double ended system), be used to analyze medium therebetween at the transmission and the receiving terminal of communication path.Each above-mentioned device all needs to carry out physical connection with two ends (being transmitting terminal and receiving terminal) of medium, and requires to interrupt current service during carrying out test process.Therefore, in given network, at whole nodes, particularly covering that to use the time that device spent and the cost of this physical connection in the network in territory greatly be surprising, and can cause the interruption of the network user's (carrying out) service.In addition, this device is not considered the fact that the physical communication paths of being tested may be supplied by a plurality of communication medias.

Advantage of the present invention is to have satisfied above-mentioned and other demand.

Brief Description Of Drawings

Above-mentioned and other aspect, characteristics and advantage of the present invention will further be able to clearly by following detailed description and accompanying drawing, wherein:

Fig. 1 represents the block diagram of inflexible communication system when relative, and wherein, according to one embodiment of present invention, service quality is positioned among the specific user or physical communication paths in the communication network;

Fig. 2 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the block diagram of the service quality of inflexible communication network positions when being used for all as shown in Figure 1 relative system, it comprises a distortion estimator, be used to estimate the channel distortion of medium decision, and the corresponding service quality between the different nodes in the network is estimated; Also comprise a service quality locator, be used for specific service quality is estimated to be positioned in the suitable physical communication paths of network;

Fig. 3 is the block diagram of cable modem communication network according to still another embodiment of the invention, comprises a plurality of hubs in the network, and wherein, the system that utilizes Fig. 2 to represent, service quality are positioned among the specific user or physical communication paths in the network;

Fig. 4 is the block diagram of the cable modem communication network among Fig. 3, has illustrated a hub with a plurality of service groups, has also illustrated multiple defined medium in shared or non-shared physical communication paths;

Fig. 5 represents the tabulation of different communication medium, described medium be used for Fig. 3 and 4 the expression cable modem communication networks 300 in hub in service groups in many users pond be associated;

Fig. 6 is individual consumer's table in the service groups of a hub of mapping, has illustrated that also whether healthy which medium provide communication networks the information of relevant Fig. 3 and 4 expressions, and this information is to be provided by a given user comparing when analyzing; With

Fig. 7 is according to one embodiment of the invention, service quality is navigated to the flow chart of the method for the specific user of inflexible communication network (for example network of representing with Fig. 1 to 4) when relative or physical communication paths.

In a plurality of figure of accompanying drawing, represent corresponding parts with corresponding reference character.

Embodiment

Following illustrative purposes is to attempt to propose to implement optimal mode of the present invention, is not that it is limited, and only is for General Principle of the present invention is described.Scope of the present invention should be determined by claims.

The invention has the advantages that, service quality in the communication network of, non-dynamic exchange constant when relative by being provided for positions, make and need not to interrupt current service, can change the method and system of the service quality of network being analyzed in the mode of physical segment in time, thereby satisfy above-mentioned and other demand.

In one embodiment, the present invention can be characterized as being the method that in the inflexible communication network service quality is positioned relatively the time, the step that method comprises is: receive the service quality of a plurality of communication medias is estimated, wherein, each communication media in a plurality of transmitters in communication network corresponding transmitter and the public acceptance point in the communication network between define, wherein each communication media all transmits at least one shared physical communication paths and at least one non-shared physical communication paths; Service quality is estimated to compare, thereby service quality is separately estimated to navigate in the physical communication paths suitable in the communication network.

In another embodiment, the present invention can be characterized as being the system that service quality is positioned, and this system comprises: inflexible communication network when comprising public acceptance point relative; Be used for sending a plurality of receivers of signal to public acceptance point; A plurality of communication medias, transmitter separately in a plurality of transmitters is connected to public acceptance point, wherein, each communication media in a plurality of communication medias all passes through at least one shared physical communication paths and at least one non-shared physical communication paths is sent to public acceptance point.Also comprise the service quality locator that is connected on the public acceptance point in this system, wherein, the service quality locator is estimated that specific service quality navigate in the physical communication paths possible in the communication network according to the analysis result that the service quality that receives from public acceptance point is estimated.

Referring to Fig. 1, represent the block diagram of inflexible communication system when relative according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein service quality is positioned among the specific user or physical communication paths in the communication network.Comprise in the network 100: the Internet 102, headend 104, media converter 106 and user 108,110,112 and 114.Although only illustrated user 108,110,112 and 114, it will be appreciated that, can comprise an arbitrary number user in the network 100.The Internet 102 can be any information network, for example world wide web.The Internet 102 is connected to headend 104.Headend and 104 and the Internet 102 and communicate with user 108,110,112 and 114.Headend 104 is connected to media converter 106 by physical communication paths 116 (being also referred to as communication link 116).Media converter 106 is connected to user 108,110,112 and 114 by physical communication paths 118,120,122,124,126 and 128 (being also referred to as communication link 118,120,122,124,126 and 128).Communicating by letter of carrying out between headend 104 and user 108,110,112 and 114 is subjected to the influence of media converter 106.

In a hybrid fiber/shaft cable (HFC) cable system, comprise an optical cable in the physical communication paths 116, it is supported in communicating by letter of carrying out between headend 104 and the media converter 106,118, each physical communication paths all comprises a coaxial cable in 120,122,124,126 and 128, and each all is supported in communicating by letter of carrying out between media converter 106 and the user 108,110,112 and 114.

The effect of media converter 106 is that the medium that communicates is thereon changed.For example, in the HFC system, media converter 106 transmits signal between optical cable (being physical communication paths 116) and coaxial cable (being physical communication paths 118).Yet,, need not media converter 106 if between headend 104 and user 108,110,112 and 114, used continuous medium.Between headend 104 and user 108,110,112 and 114, can be with any suitable medium or media as separately physical communication paths.For example, except optical cable and coaxial cable, also can use other medium, for example twisted-pair cable, wireless or satellite communication link.

In addition, at work, defined communication media between headend 104 and user 108, the physical communication paths that comprises in the communication media has 116,118 and 120.Similarly, defined communication media between headend 104 and user 110, the physical communication paths that comprises in the communication media has 116,118,124 and 126; Defined communication media between headend 104 and user 112, the physical communication paths that comprises in the communication media has 116,118 and 122; Defined communication media between headend 104 and user 114, the physical communication paths that comprises in the communication media has 116,118,124 and 128.Therefore, physical communication paths 120,122,126 and the non-shared physical communication paths of 128 expressions, and physical communication paths 116,118 and the shared physical communication paths of 124 expressions.For example, physical communication paths 124 only by

user

110 and 114 with headend 104 between communicate by letter shared, and physical communication paths 126 only is used for communicating by letter between user 110 and the headend 104, and promptly physical communication paths 126 is " non-shared " physical communication paths.

The signal utilization physical communication paths separately that has data is come when different communication medias is propagated, and communication media is separately introduced " channel distortion of medium decision " (being also referred to as channel distortion) of different magnitudes.Therefore, when signal propagates in the network separately receiver, compare with the form that their send and change by taking signal that the communication media of physical communication paths separately transmits.The level of channel distortion depends on noise level, nonlinearity, time delay and reflection, all these factors all (for example) depend on the frequency and the medium of signal in the communication media.The contributive factor of this channel distortion is comprised (for example) amplifier, laser, relatively poor signal background and the defective of subscriber unit.

Utilization can obtain the estimation to the service quality in the particular communications media to the understanding of channel distortion in the particular communications media (being the channel distortion of medium decision).Service quality in the particular communications media has limited the signal that can send and receive in communication media.For example, the quality of service impacts in the particular communications media level or the grade of service, i.e. the modulation level and the signal rate of the signal that can support of medium.Therefore, in order to determine possible service level in the particular medium, decide service quality in the particular medium according to estimation to channel distortion.

According to one embodiment of present invention, the method and system that provides the channel distortion of the medium decision of inflexible communication network 100 when relative to position.The location is meant in communication network 100 to be analyzed network with proper spacing, to determine the restriction of system under the physical segment mode.Thus, can carry out the estimation of channel distortion level to each communication media separately, communication media has taken the one or more physical communication paths in 116,118,120,122,124,126 and 128.Utilize these channel distortion estimation to determine that the service quality of communication media support is estimated separately.

And, by the comparison of these service quality being estimated carry out each other, can navigate to channel distortion the physical communication paths of particular locality in the network.For example, channel distortion may be positioned to specific user in the network 100, specific non-shared physical communication paths or specific shared physical communication paths.Can remotely carry out thisly determining by network manager, and need not physics installation testing equipment or the part in the communication network 100 carried out physical examination.Therefore, when when providing service or to new service, carrying out initialization and be provided with, can find out the service quality of the specific user in (ascertain) specific region to user set.This just allow network provider can be remotely, accurately, automatically decay positions to network.

More advantageously, the network management that is positioned at headend 104 in typical case can also be used the channel distortion estimation of not obvious (non-obtrusive), the technology of its use has carried out introducing (but being not limited thereto) in two patent texts below, these two patent documents are respectively the U.S. Patent application No.09/571 that people such as Smith submitted on May 15th, 2000,068, " sliced bandwidth distortion prediction ", attorney docket position PD-05944AM, its present U.S. Patent number be _ _ _; And the U.S. Patent application No.09/470 that submits on December 22nd, 1999 of people such as Smith, 890, " with digital modulation decay autocorrelative method and device ", attorney docket is PD-05924AM, its present U.S. Patent number is _ _ _, these two pieces of documents are all incorporated by reference at this.Referring to Fig. 2, the channel distortion technology of introducing in these lists of references has been carried out brief description.

In one embodiment, the collect information of from a plurality of transmitters pond (for example the user 108,110,112 and 114) of channel distortion estimation method is used in network management (for example in headend 104), utilizes any segmentation in the communication network 100 of this information to connect then network 100 is analyzed.

This embodiment has represented the scheme different with prior art, it can carry out long range positioning by the mode of physical segment service quality in the inflexible communication network 100 when relative, thereby can long-rangely determine to support in the region specific in communication network 100 which type of signal service quality.The advantage of this method is, need not physical segment connected to carry out physical examination or connect testing equipment in each independent physical connection and can realize.

Below with reference to Fig. 2, expression in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, be used for the block diagram of the system that the service quality of inflexible communication network (for example shown in Figure 1) when relative positions, it comprises a distortion estimator, is used for given level of distortion between the different nodes of network is estimated; Also comprise a service quality locator, be used for specific service quality is estimated to be positioned in the suitable physical communication paths of network.Shown communication network 200 comprises: transmitter 202,234 and 206, communication media 208,210 and 212, receiver 214 (being also referred to as " public acceptance point " 214), distortion estimator 216, memory 218, service quality locator 220 (being also referred to as QoS locator 220), and network management control device 222 (being also referred to as system controller/report subsystem 222)

202, each transmitter in 234 and 206 all the communication media 208,210 and 212 by separately be connected on the receiver 214.Receiver 214 is connected to distortion estimator 216, and distortion estimator 216 is connected to memory 218.Memory 218 is connected to QoS locator 220, and then, QoS locator 220 is connected to network management control device 222.

At work, each transmitter and the point or the node that separate in receiver 214 all is communication network 200 in 202,234 and 206.For example, transmitter 202 is arranged in the user 108 of Fig. 1, and receiver 214 is arranged in the headend 104 of Fig. 1, and the physical communication paths 120,118 of Fig. 1 and 116 medium have been used in communication media 208 representatives.Constant network when communication network 200 is relative is constant or relatively-stationary when being about to that transmitter separately is relative with physical connection that receiver connects.Thus, the physical communication paths that each transmitter is connected to receiver 214 is known and unique, and promptly network can dynamically not switch, and takies different physical pathways from a node to the another one node when making each communication.And physical communication paths may comprise multiple physical medium, and for example, communication media 208,210 and 212 may use (for example) optical fiber link, cable link, multiple spot microwave link or geostationary satellite link.

By communication media 208,210 and 212 separately, signal is sent to receiver 214 from each transmitter 202,204 and 208.As mentioned above, according to the transfer function of communication media 208,210 separately and 212, compare with the form that sends, variation has taken place in the signal through sending.This is called as the channel distortion (also being called channel distortion for short) of medium decision.The factor that causes this channel distortion is noise level, nonlinearity, time delay and reflection, all these factors all (for example) depend on the frequency and the medium of signal in the communication media.What for example, the channel distortion introduced of communication media 208 may be with communication channel 210 is different.

Usually, particularly in covering significantly the communication network 200 in territory (for example hybrid fiber/coaxial (HFC) network), these channel distortions may change in very wide scope.Which kind of modulation system and signal rate be the level affects of channel distortion promptly support to the signal service quality of communication media support.

For each transmitter in the communication network 200, except physical communication paths is known and unique, in communication process, receiver 214 receives the sign from transmitter 202,204 separately and 206.This information is collected by receiver 214, because the transmitter 202,204 and 206 of receiver 214 and each user side carries out time synchronized; Therefore, receiver 214 is known the transmitter that starts of each received signal.And in typical case, each received signal all comprises header (for example in preamble), has wherein comprised to send sign, is used for notifying the transmitter that starts to receiver.For example, for each transmitter in 202,204 and 206, known their IP (Internet protocol), TID (send sign), SID (system banner) or MAC (media access controller) address, intrinsic in the signaling protocol of these addresses for permission receiver reconstruction signal.Utilization can be carried out related with this soft sign the geographical position in the communication network 200 to the understanding of the soft sign of each transmitter.

Need to prove that although only illustrated a receiver 214, receiver 214 can be implemented as a plurality of receivers.Yet each in a plurality of receivers all is arranged in the common location or the intranodal of communication network 200.For example, each in a plurality of receivers all is placed in the headend 104 of Fig. 1.Therefore, receiver 214 is represented one " public acceptance point " geographically.

In case receiver 214 receives signal, distortion estimator 216 will utilize receive from transmitter 202,204 and 206 signals separately, determine the channel distortion estimation that occurs in the communication media 208,210 and 212 separately.From channel distortion estimation, can determine the service quality estimation.This service quality estimated statement understands which kind of signal service quality particular communication medium 208,210 and 212 supports, promptly supports modulation level and signal rate which kind of is specific.These estimated results are stored in the memory 218.

Distortion estimator 216 is illustrated as optionally, because can pass through repetition test, perhaps the error rate of the signal that receives according to receiver 214 or Packet Error Ratio determine that simply the service quality of each communication media in 208,210 and 212 estimates, service quality is estimated to carry out "ball-park" estimate.It is very accurate that these service quality estimations need not to analyze, and can determine whether as far as possible simply to set up any service for specific node or medium (for example medium 208,210 and 212).Thus, can utilize any comparison measuring (comparative metric) to collect the information of relevant service quality in the network that covers certain region, then, can determine the topological relation of network with the data of collecting (for example service quality estimation), thus the performance of fixer network and medium.

Preferably, distortion estimator 216 utilizes specific technology that the level of channel distortion is estimated.Use in the distortion estimator 216 two kinds unconspicuous, telepak distortion estimation technique examples are included in the technology of introducing in following two patent files, these two patents are respectively the U.S. Patent application No.09/571 that people such as Smith submitted on May 15th, 2000,068, " sliced bandwidth distortion prediction ", attorney docket position PD-05944AM, its present U.S. Patent number be _ _ _; And the U.S. Patent application No.09/470 that submits on December 22nd, 1999 of people such as Smith, 890, " with digital modulation decay autocorrelative method and device ", attorney docket is PD-05924AM, its present U.S. Patent number is _ _ _, these two pieces of documents are all incorporated by reference at this.Owing to need not connect tangible testing equipment or other special equipments in communication media to be measured or to be analyzed, these two kinds of exemplary technique all are preferred.

Below to the U.S. Patent application No.09/571 of people such as Smith in submission on May 15th, 2000,068, " sliced bandwidth distortion prediction ", attorney docket PD-05944AM, its present U.S. Patent number for _ _ _ _ embodiment of the channel distortion estimation method of middle introduction summarizes.At first, by communication media to be analyzed, send a plurality of short time test signals from the receiver 214 of transmitter (for example transmitter 202) to communication media 208.In the frequency band of the communication media 208 with given frequency bandwidth, each in a plurality of test signals has all taken different arrowband frequency ranges or the diverse location on the frequency.For example, the test bandwidth of each test signal be about given communication media 208 bandwidth 20%.Multiplexing by test signal and current service are carried out, perhaps current service is moved on to the different frequency position in the given bandwidth, these test signals and current service send simultaneously.Therefore, by communication media 208, a plurality of test signals are sent to receiver 214 not obviously.

Identical with normal mode, in receiver 214, test signal (with normal signal) is handled, to obtain equalizing coefficient with equalizer.Because receiver 214 receives the data of the sign of expression particular transmitter 202, for the transmitter in the network 202,204 and 206, receiver knows which has sent each test signal (for example transmitter 202).Then, phase distortion estimator (being included in the distortion estimator 216) is analyzed the equalizing coefficient of each test signal, is used to each test signal to determine the moment that the main channel distortion takes place.Then, the phase distortion estimator is that each test signal from particular transmitter 202 of receiving is determined the differential group delay between the main channel distortion constantly.Advantageously, the phase distortion of this differential group delay and particular communications media 208 is approaching.Similarly, for using each transmitter of communication media, for example use the transmitter 202,204 and 206 of communication media 208,210 and 212 to determine phase distortion respectively respectively.

With definite phase distortion while, (for example) amplitude distortion estimator (being included in the distortion estimator 216) is also determined the amplitude distortion of particular communications media 208.Thus, the test signal (identical with above-mentioned test signal) that receives is handled, with the power of determining to receive from each test signal of transmitter with autocorrelator or fast Fourier transforms in commonly known in the art, the receiver 214.For utilize that communication media separately receives from for each test signal of transmitter separately, each power is estimated to analyze, to determine the amplitude fluctuation of each communication media in given whole bandwidth in 208,210 and 212.The amplitude distortion of this amplitude fluctuation and particular communications media 208,210 and 212 is approaching.

So far, estimate the phase distortion and the amplitude distortion of particular communications media, then can know the transfer function of particular communications media.Known the transfer function of particular communications media, just can utilize conventional signal processing simulator (Elanix for example, Inc.of Westlake Village, " Elanix systematic observation " or the Cadence Design Systems of CA exploitation, Inc.of San Jose, " SPW " of CA exploitation), the mathematical theory limit of perhaps utilizing written calculation to come out is determined the service quality that each communication media is supported in 208,210 and 212 quantitatively.In other words, the particular communication medium be can determine and given signal rate and given modulation level whether can be supported.This can be realized by distortion estimator 216, perhaps be realized by network management control device 222.

Below to the U.S. Patent application No.09/470 of people such as Smith in submission on December 22nd, 1999,890, " with automatic relevant method and the device of digital modulation decay ", attorney docket position PD-05924AM, its present U.S. Patent number for _ _ _ _ embodiment of the channel distortion estimation method of middle introduction summarizes.By communication media 208, receiver 214 receives the digital modulation signals from corresponding transmitter 202.Receiver 214 extracts soft-decision data from digital modulation signals.Soft-decision data is a numerical data, and (for example) with two complement representations, one of them is 8 I values, and another is 8 Q values, the position of symbol in the I/Q plane that representative is represented with soft-decision data.Soft-decision data is inputed to weak correlator (impairment correlator) (being included in the distortion estimator 216).For each particular communication medium, weak correlator is that time dependent soft-decision data is stored in position in the signal space, and provides weak mask (impairment mask) for soft-decision data.

The weak mask that comprises a plurality of storages among this embodiment, each is all corresponding to the different channel distortion type that may introduce in the particular communications media 208.For example, according to the channel distortion type that communication media is introduced, the position of soft-decision data (being also referred to as code element) in signal space be difference, or depart from its ideal position with predictable distance.This technology has been used predetermined weak mask, is used to refer to for given particular channel distortion, and where soft-decision data should be placed on signal space usually.In addition, different weak masks can be used for code element level distortion and group of stars level distortion.For example, the different weak mask of storage is used for following specific channel distortion type: the weak mask of phase noise; The weak mask of continuous wave (CW) noise; The weak mask of signal reflex; Mask a little less than I/Q is unbalance; The weak mask of compression; The weak mask of amplitude modulation(PAM) (AM)-phase modulated (PM); The synthetic weak mask of phase noise and CW noise; And any other synthetic weak mask of the weak mask of related polytype.

Thus, as mentioned above, multiple weak mask-type is used for soft-decision data.For mask a little less than each, weak correlator determines to fall into the soft-decision data subclass of specific weak mask.This realizes by the number of times that the soft-decision data of determining to fall into weak mask takes place.Be that each weak mask calculates associated weight then.In one embodiment, use the ratio calculation associated weight of the number of times and the total degree that soft-decision data takes place of the soft-decision data generation that falls into weak mask.For mask a little less than each calculates corresponding associated weight.

Then, all associated weight are compared, determine a possible possibility (representing with the form of percentage in typical case), represent the channel distortion in the particular communications media that specific type of distortion causes, it also is the sign (when for example, comparing) of expression channel distortion seriousness with the signal to noise ratio of expecting.Therefore, this process obtains the possibility about the source of particular channel distortion and estimated channel level of distortion.

From this information, those of ordinary skill in the art just can determine each particular communications media can support for which type of service quality.For example, utilize the signal processing simulator (Elanix for example of above mentioned routine, Inc.of Westlake Village, " Elanix systematic observation " or the Cadence Design Systems of CA exploitation, Inc.of San Jose, " SPW " of CA exploitation), can determine the service quality that 208,210 and 212 communication medias are supported quantitatively; Therefore, provide the service quality estimation for each communication media in 208,210 and 212.This can be realized by distortion estimator 216, perhaps be realized by network management control device 222.

Need to prove that no matter in that a kind of situation, distortion estimator 216 is all exported service quality and estimated it shows which type of signal service quality particular communication medium (for example communication media 208,210 and 212) supports.

In addition, advantageously, no matter in that a kind of situation, need not to carry out physical examination, just can obtain the estimation of the service quality that each particular communications media in 208,210 and 212 is supported at the connection testing apparatus of each communication media or to physical pathway.This estimation can be local definite by receiver 214, and is perhaps long-range definite by the network management control device 222 that is connected to receiver 214.

After this, the service quality of storing each communication media in 208,210 and 212 in memory 218 is estimated.The service quality that utilization is stored in the memory 218 estimates that the health of 220 pairs of communication networks 200 of QoS locator is made quantitative judgement.For example, determine that with this canned data which physical piece in the communication network 200 or physical communication paths can support the signal of what certain quality of service level.For the service quality in the communication network 200 is accurately located, QoS locator 220 must consider that those are in the physical communication paths of " shared " between the communication media separately.For example, in communication network, some physical communication paths or physical piece are shared by other communication media, have some physical communication paths only to be used for a unique communication media simultaneously, and promptly physical communication paths is non-shared.Therefore, in this embodiment, QoS locator 220 knows which physical communication paths is shared or non-shared.With reference to following Fig. 3-6, the comparison procedure of being carried out by QoS locator 220 has been carried out more complete introduction.

In addition, can be in time service quality be estimated to monitor, with determine the certain user can with service quality whether have decay.Favourable situation is by different communication media 208,210 and 212 service quality is separately estimated to compare analysis, may identify that specific physical communication paths of most probable restriction service quality.Advantageously, all these are performed, (this will be that cost is very high and need not to connect testing equipment on each transmitter and receiver in communication network 200, and interrupt existing service), perhaps in fact need not different physical communication paths is carried out physical examination, determine the reason of the ability drop of specific quality of services for users.

QoS locator 220 is to network management control device 222 Data transmission, in the data of this storage networking provider use.The information that utilization provides is followed the tracks of the service quality that each physical segment connects in the communication network 200 in time.Therefore, decay, then may check specific physical communication paths, determining the source of service quality decay, and this is revised if detect the service quality of supporting in the particular communications media.

Need to prove, for system shown in Figure 2, its realization may comprise a machine-readable program storage device, wherein comprise the program that constitutes by the executable instruction of machine clearly, each step in the manner of execution, these steps are carried out by distortion estimator 216, QoS locator 220 (step of listing in the flow chart that for example following Fig. 7 represents) and network management control device 222.In order to make the machine can execution of programs of instructions, may comprise processor in the machine, for example microprocessor (for example digital signal processor) or other logical circuit that can execution of programs of instructions.Can use hardware, software or their combination to realize distortion estimator 216, QoS locator 220 and network management control device 222, for example use general purpose microprocessor, microcontroller and/or dedicated logic circuit, and with the software and the firmware of their collaborative works.And distortion estimator 216, QoS locator 220 and network management control device 222 can be used as position separated components enforcement each other, perhaps can be formed in the independent integrated unit on the physical location.For example, these parts may be placed in the receiver 214 (for example receiver in the headend among Fig. 1 104), perhaps are connected with receiver 214.Yet in typical case, these parts are included within the headend of hybrid fiber/coaxial system.

Referring to Fig. 3, the block diagram of having represented cable modem communication network according to still another embodiment of the invention, comprise a plurality of hubs in the network, wherein, (for example) system that utilizes Fig. 2 to represent, service quality is positioned to specific user or specific physical piece, for example physical communication paths in the network.Comprise in the illustrated communication network 300: Cable Modem Terminal System 302 (CMTS) (being also referred to as the headend 104 that resides among Fig. 1), the hub 1304 that has

service groups

306 and 308, the hub n 310 that has

service groups

312 and 314, two-way amplifier 316, user network joint (tap) 318, user's set 320, optical fiber link 322 (expression physical communication paths) and cable link 324 (also representing physical communication paths).

Inflexible communication network example when cable modem communication network 300 is relative, the geography/network topology known to having usually.For example, in this embodiment, CMTS 302 represents common node in the communication network 300 (for example, CMTS 302 is included in the headend among Fig. 1), communicates with the unique user device 320 that has the relative fixed geographical position in given region.In illustrated many hub architectures, a plurality of hubs, for example hub 1 304 is connected to CMTS302 to the optical fiber link 322 of hub n 310 by separately.Each hub is connected to separately user's set 320 by cable link 324 again.According to service groups to providing the user's set of service to divide into groups by each hub, the service groups under hub 1 304 306 and 308 for example.Similar with the media converter among Fig. 1, each hub (for example hub 1 304) is to mailing to and changing from the fiber links 322 and the information of cable link 324.

In service groups (for example service groups 306), cable link 324 is connected to two-way amplifier 316, and the signal of up direction (promptly from the direction of user's set 320 to CMTS 302) separately and down direction (promptly from CMTS 302 to the direction of user's set 320 separately) is amplified.In the different location of cable link 324, user network joint 318 is connected respectively on the cable, and user's set 320 is connected respectively on the hub.With reference to figure 4-6, will discuss in more detail specific connection.

As shown in the figure, cable modem communication network 300 can be supported many hubs, and each all has a plurality of service groups that service is provided to mobile subscriber device.At work, in typical case, user's set 320 is the cable modem unit that are positioned at user's dwelling house or businessfice.Comprise in the user's set 320 being used for sending the transmitter of signal, and be used to receive receiver from the signal of CMTS 302 to CMTS 302.Known to prior art, by user's set 320, network provider can utilize such cable modem communication network 300 to provide (for example) TV, the Internet and telephone service to the user.

Need to prove, cable modem communication network 300 may comprise multiple different structure, and, as long as comprise collection of transmitters in the communication network with physical connection constant when defined, relative, just can be benefited from the technology that a plurality of embodiment of the present invention propose.Therefore, for each user's set 320 in the communication network 300, physical pathway all is known, and for each user's set in the coverage, physical pathway all is unique.

Referring to Fig. 4, the block diagram of the cable modem communication network in the presentation graphs 3 has been illustrated a hub with a plurality of service groups.Have the fiber links 322 (represents physical communication path) of leading to CMTS 302 on the illustrated hub n 310, service groups 1 312 is connected on the hub 310 by cable link to service groups X 314.Two-way amplifier 316, user network joint 318 and user's set 320 have also been illustrated among the figure.In addition, cable link among Fig. 4 is represented as the physical communication paths 401,402,404,406,408,418,420,422,424 and 426 of " shared ", and the physical communication paths 410,412,414,406,428,430,432 and 434 of " non-shared ".

In addition, utilize the communication media of physical communication paths separately not to be labeled as M respectively _{NXYY '}, wherein " M " is communication media.Equally, specific user's set 320 (being the transmitter among Fig. 2) is noted as S _{NXYZ '}Wherein " S " is user's set.In two kinds of situations, " N " is hub identification; " X " is the sign of service groups in the given hub; " Y " is sender unit identification (can be IP, MAC, TID, SID address or other relevant address of physical connection any and in the network); " Y ' " be that network medium identifies; " Z " is the identification of the manufacturer of transmitter.

" Y ' " show that whether the particular communication medium is " main line " communication media (if Y '=0), has promptly used the communication media of " shared " physical communication paths; Show perhaps whether communication media is to have used only by the medium (if Y ' ≠ 0) of " non-shared " physical communication paths of a user's set 320 uses.When Y '=0, Y represents the resident degree of depth of Y transmitter in communication network 300.For example, at M _{NXYY '}(M for example in the territory _{NXYY '}), if Y=4, Y '=0, it shows that communication media connects medium M for the communication network main line _NX40, represent that it will be shared by the transmitter of all Y＞4, and this transmitter is with shared M _{NX (Y＜4) 0}Network backbone connect.In other words, the receiver in the 4th user's set 320 (is S _NX4Z) with working medium M _NX44(promptly being connected to the non-shared physical communication paths from transmitter to user network joint 318 of main line), medium M _NX40(promptly also by the 5th, 6 ... n the shared physical communication paths that transmitter is shared), medium M _NX30(promptly the 3rd, 4,5,6 ... n the physical communication paths 406 that transmitter is shared), medium M _NX20(promptly the 2nd, 3,4,5,6 ... n the physical communication paths 404 that transmitter is shared), and medium M _NX10(promptly the 1st, 2,3,4,5,6 ... n the physical communication paths 401,401 and 322 that transmitter is shared).

With these media M _{NXYY '}Connect with the communication media 208,210 and 212 among Fig. 2, if transmitter 202 is transmitter S _NX3Z, then communication media 208 comprises M _NX33, M _NX30, M _NX20And M _NX10, in typical case, receiver 214 is placed among the CMTS 302.Also it should be noted that medium M _NX33Used non-shared physical communication paths 432; Medium M _NX30Used shared physical communication paths 424; Medium M _NX20Used shared physical communication paths 422; Medium M _NX10Used shared physical communication paths 420,418 and 322.Therefore, need be understood that emphatically that each communication media among Fig. 2 (being communication media 208,210 and 212) all is defined as from (the S for example of transmitter separately _NXYZ) to the combining medium of public acceptance point (for example CMTS 302), comprise at least one common media (M when Y '=0 for example _{NXYY '}) with non-common media (M when the Y ' ≠ 0 for example _{NXYY '}).In addition, each common media (M when Y '=0 for example _{NXYY '}) all comprise one or more shared physical communication paths (for example 322,418,420,422 etc.), each non-common media (M when Y ' ≠ 0 for example _{NXYY '}) all comprise one or more non-shared physical communication paths (for example 428 or 430).

With reference to figure 5, represented the tabulation of different communication medium in the table 500 briefly, the user Chi Guanlian in the service groups in the hub among these media and Fig. 3 and 4 in the cable modem communication network 300 of expression.In the table 500 at transmitter S _NXYZTerritory and medium M _{NXYY '}Used above-mentioned symbol in the territory.

Refer back to Fig. 4, the manufacturer of particular transmitter is provided or provides with subscript " Z " (being the identification of the manufacturer of transmitter) expression.For example, Z=0 is corresponding to the transmitter of being made by vendor A, and Z=1 is corresponding to the transmitter of being made by the B of manufacturer, or the like.Thus, when phase-split network, different service quality may be navigated in particular transmitter/user's set 320 that manufacturer makes separately, therefore, show that specific manufacturer may produce the substandard device.

Owing to the topological structure of communication network 300 is marked, and utilize the one or more technology that are described among Fig. 2 to come at particular transmitter (S for example _NXYZ) and public acceptance point (for example CMTS 302) between given communication media, determine service quality and estimate, network provider can navigate to the channel distortion of medium decision in the physical communication paths possible in the network 300.This can realize by the service quality of each communication media (for example communication media 208,210 and 212) is estimated to compare to analyze.By setting up the network topology shown in Fig. 3 and 4, network provider is recognized, specific medium (M _{NXYY '}) constituted from transmitter (S for example _NXYZ) to each communication media (for example, communication media 208,210 and 212) of receiver (for example CMTS 302); And remind them, exist to use the common media and the non-common media of shared physical communication paths (for example 322,418,420 etc.) and non-shared physical communication paths (for example 428,430 etc.).Therefore, need not to carry out each physical communication paths in physical examination or the test communications network, just the specific service quality restriction can be navigated in the specific physical communication paths.Similarly, can analyze network, be used for determining such physical communication paths, wherein owing to a reason or other reason, compare with other path, these physical communication paths can support to have the more signal of high quality-of-service (for example because little reflection of 320 from the user network joint to particular user device produces less channel distortion in specific physical communication paths).To possible analysis result be described with some examples below, these examples can be realized with the technology among one or more embodiment of the present invention's proposition.

Example 1

Given (among Fig. 4) three transmitter S _N11Z, S _N12ZAnd S _N13Z, have common media M _N130(using shared physical communication paths 406), M _N120(using shared physical communication paths 404) and M _N110(using shared physical communication paths 402,401 and 322), and non-common media M _N111(using non-shared physical communication paths 410), M _N122(using non-shared physical communication paths 412) and M _N133(using non-shared physical communication paths 414).In distortion estimator 216, use with reference to the channel distortion estimation of figure 2 introductions and a method in the service quality estimation, obtaining from each transmitter (is S _N11Z, S _N12ZAnd S _N13Z) estimate to the service quality of the synthetic communication media between the public acceptance point (being CMTS 302).Therefore, having obtained the service quality of three communication medias is estimated, is respectively from transmitter S _N11Z(cover M to CMTS 302 _N111With M _N110) communication media, from transmitter S _N12Z(cover M to CMTS302 _N122, M _N120With M _N110) communication media and from transmitter S _N13Z(cover M to CMTS302 _N133, M _N130, M _N120With M _N110) communication media.

At S _N11ZQoS be estimated as qualified (promptly change in time remain on or level on), and S near expectation _N12ZWith S _N13ZService quality estimate to be attenuated under the situation of (promptly changing the level that is lower than expectation in time), can obtain conclusion, may be at common media M _N120On fault has taken place because it is unique medium shared in the service that is attenuated.Notice that this shows at the medium M that uses shared physical communication paths 404 _N120In may have problems rather than medium M _N220Existing problems.This is the statement of carrying out with possibility, because also may be transmitter S _N12ZWith S _N13ZAll break down.In this point, be that fault has taken place which physical unit in the network although do not judge clearly, along with the increase of the number and the degree of receiver in the network, the possibility of error analysis has reduced.Also has a kind of possibility, i.e. M _N122With M _N133All have fault, permission another transmitter in entering network is with medium M _N120It is qualified to think, promptly can support the grade of service of expecting.In any case network provider can both navigate to attenuation points the real nearer degree in problem source of distance, promptly most likely used the M of shared physical communication paths 404 _N120Therefore, advantageously, by the service quality of each transmitter is estimated to compare analysis, the limit of service quality in the network can be navigated on the segmentation physical connection given in the network, and need not carry out physical examination or each physical connection in the network is carried out local test.

It should be noted that and to represent these service quality estimations without term " qualified " or " decay ", can compare with the amount relevant, thereby can decay be divided into grade according to seriousness with umerical or quantitative measurement separately.

Example 2

At whole three transmitter S _N11Z, S _N12ZAnd S _N13ZThe service quality situation estimating to be attenuated respectively under, can obtain conclusion, used the medium M of shared physical communication paths 402,401 and 322 _N110Be possible error source, because it is by whole three transmitter S _N11Z, S _N12ZAnd S _N13ZShared unique medium.Equally, possible error source can be navigated to physical piece given in the communication network, and need not be to carrying out local test or physical examination in the whole network.

Example 3

At transmitter S _N11ZAnd S _N13ZService quality be estimated as acceptable quality, and transmitter S _N12ZThe service quality situation estimating to be attenuated under, can obtain conclusion, medium M _N122Fault may take place, and healthy few of danger of network backbone.Therefore, network provider subsequently expatriate personnel search and repair M _N122Fault.This fault may occur in medium M _N122In the non-shared physical communication paths of using 412, perhaps occur in physical network main line junction (for example the user network joint 318), or particular transmitter S _N12ZBreak down.In addition,, can discern the production firm of the design of setting out, and the service quality of other transmitter of the same manufacturer that obtained is estimated to compare according to the value of " Z ".Whether therefore, can judge transmitter according to identification of the manufacturer breaks down.For example, suppose to allow the manufacturer of poor quality to enter network, make and compare with the transmitter that other manufacturer makes, after through the short work lifetime, the signal service quality of being sent by the transmitter of vendor A manufacturing descends.

Although only introduced three special cases, in communication network 300, also there are many other situations, service quality can be navigated on the specific physical communication paths in communication network 300 interior geographical position.With the hub is that extend possible path on the basis, judges whether the factor that causes decay is that hub is decayed or performance or the headend itself of CMTS break down.For example, referring to Fig. 3, the service quality of the transmitter under the hub 1304 can be estimated to estimate compare, whether have problems thereby can estimate in the particular hub in the communication network 300 with the service quality of other hub (for example hub n 310).

In addition, can estimate similarly to compare, judge whether the decay of service quality is owing to serving the reason of the whole service groups of hub separately service quality.For example, with the service quality of the communication media in the service groups estimate with same hub under the service quality of communication media of another service groups compare, judge whether whole service groups all has problems under a hub.

Referring to Fig. 6, the individual consumer in the service groups of illustrated table 600 a pair hub (being hub 1 304) is shone upon briefly, and which medium (medium M for example is described _{NXYY '}) information of relevant communication network health is provided, this information is to be provided by given user when carrying out above-mentioned comparative analysis.As shown, [x] expression is the information which medium provides specific user's network health in the relevant communication network.For example, medium M ₁₁₁₀With M ₁₁₁₁Information about network health is provided, and this information is by transmitter S _111ZProvide, and medium M ₁₁₁₀With M ₁₁₂₀, M ₁₁₃₀With M ₁₁₃₃Information about network health is provided, and this information is by the transmitter S in the communication network 300 _113ZProvide.

Therefore, advantageously, network provider can be with the decay source location of network possible source (for example physical communication paths) in the network, and the qualified person need not be sent to the scene.In order to determine a user's the possible basic reason of decay, the scene technical staff need not sent to is checked each high-level node, and the most highdensity node of the next one of may having to then search for, or the like.More advantageously, network provider can be before producing catastrophic consequence to client/user, just can check out the decay of the service quality that given segmentation connects in the inflexible communication network when relative, and it is repaired that inflexible communication network has unique and known physical connection in the time of relatively.In addition, network provider can also be determined to carry out the worst case that network connects, and utilizes it can make necessary judgement, and proposes to satisfy the best solution of business budget.

Referring to Fig. 7, the flow chart of method according to an embodiment of the invention is described, it navigates to inflexible communication network when relative with service quality, for example the specific user or the part of the network of representing with Fig. 1 to 4.

Initial step comprise to for example Fig. 1 to 4 describe relative the time inflexible communication network in the channel distortion of a plurality of communication medias estimate.(for example the communication media 208,210 and 212 of Fig. 2 has comprised a plurality of medium M in Fig. 3 and 4 to these communication medias _{NXYY '}) separately transmitter (for example transmitter 202,204 and 206 of Fig. 2, perhaps the transmitter S among Fig. 3 and 4 in the transmitter pond _NXYZ) and public acceptance point (for example CMTS 302 of the receiver 214 of Fig. 2 or Fig. 3 and 4) between define.According to any technology illustrated in fig. 2, for example carry out the particular channel distortion and estimate with the distortion estimator among Fig. 2 216.Determine the service quality estimation of the signal that each communication media is supported with these channel distortion estimation (be medium decision channel distortion estimation) result, the signal that for example uses the particular medium of routine techniques to support has which type of modulation level and signal rate.

According to one embodiment of present invention, for each communication media in a plurality of communication medias, these service quality are estimated to obtain or to receive (step 702) from memory, and perhaps directly (for example) obtains from distortion estimator.Each communication media in a plurality of communication medias all be relatively the time in the transmitter pond in the inflexible communication network separately transmitter and public acceptance point between define.Each communication media all passes through at least one shared physical communication paths and at least one non-shared physical communication paths transmits data.In one embodiment, QoS locator 220 (for example being placed among the CMTS 302 of headend 104) receives the service quality estimation of each transmitter in the network from the distortion estimator 206 (for example being placed on the CMTS 302 of headend 104) of Fig. 2.

Estimate to be stored in these service quality in the memory (for example memory 218 of Fig. 2) (step 704), memory may be placed in the public acceptance point, perhaps be connected with public acceptance point, public acceptance point (for example) is placed in the CMTS 302 in the communication network 300 of Fig. 3 and 4.Storing step can carry out before or after receiving step (being step 702).

After this, the service quality estimated result is compared analysis, thereby given service quality is navigated on the specific physical communication paths (step 706), physical communication paths can be shared or non-shared.After this, according to the result of comparison step, specific service quality is estimated to navigate to and may be estimated on the related physical communication paths (step 708) with specific service quality.In one embodiment, carry out these and relatively reach positioning step, to causing the service decay in the communication network or may the physical communication paths related carrying out geo-location with specific service quality.For example, comparison and positioning step have been illustrated in several examples of explanation in the above.

Although utilize certain embodiments and application, the present invention disclosed herein is illustrated, under the situation that does not deviate from the scope of the present invention that proposes in claims, those skilled in the art can make many modifications and distortion to this.

Claims

1. method that relatively the time, in the inflexible communication network service quality is positioned, it comprises:

The service quality that receives a plurality of communication medias is estimated, wherein, each communication media in a plurality of communication medias of definition between transmitter and the public acceptance point in communication network separately in a plurality of transmitters relatively the time in the inflexible communication network, wherein each communication media all passes through at least one shared physical communication paths and at least one non-shared physical communication paths transmission data; With

Compare the service quality estimated result, thereby service quality is separately navigated on the physical communication paths possible in the communication network.

2. method according to claim 1 further comprises: according to comparative result, separately service quality is estimated to navigate on the possible physical communication paths related with service quality estimation separately.

3. method according to claim 2, wherein positioning step comprises: service quality is separately estimated to navigate on the possible physical communication paths, and need not carry out physical examination to possible physical communication paths.

4. method according to claim 1, wherein service quality is separately estimated the decay of expression to the service quality of the expectation of communication network.

5. method according to claim 1, each communication media in wherein a plurality of communication medias all uses known and unique physical pathway.

6. method according to claim 1, wherein communication network comprises the cable modem communication network.

7. method according to claim 1 further comprises: determine to comprise in the possible physical communication paths shared physical communication paths.

8. method according to claim 1 further comprises: determine that possible physical communication paths is non-shared physical communication paths.

9. method according to claim 1 further comprises: during receiving and comparison step carries out, continue the current service that provides in the communication network, make current service not be interrupted.

10. method according to claim 1, wherein receiving step comprises: receive from the service quality of memory and estimate.

11. method according to claim 1 further comprises: monitoring service quality is separately estimated in time, thereby detects in the possible physical communication paths variation that service quality is separately estimated.

12. one kind is used for the system that inflexible communication network positions service quality relatively the time, it comprises:

Be used to receive the device that the service quality of a plurality of communication medias is estimated, wherein, each communication media in a plurality of communication medias of definition between separately transmitter and the public acceptance point in communication network in a plurality of transmitters relatively the time in the inflexible communication network, wherein each communication media all passes through at least one shared physical communication paths and at least one non-shared physical communication paths transmission data; With

Be used for comparison service quality estimated result, thereby general's service quality separately navigates to the device on the physical communication paths possible in the communication network.

13. system according to claim 12 further comprises:, separately service quality is estimated to navigate to device on the possible physical communication paths related with service quality estimation separately according to comparative result.

14. system according to claim 13, the described device that wherein is used to locate comprises: service quality is separately estimated to navigate to possible physical communication paths, and need not carry out the device of physical examination to possible physical communication paths.

15. system according to claim 12, wherein, service quality is separately estimated the decay of expression to the service quality of communication network expectation.

16. system according to claim 12 further comprises being used for determining that possible physical communication paths comprises the device of shared physical communication paths.

17. system according to claim 12 further comprises being used for determining that possible physical communication paths is the device of non-shared physical communication paths.

18. system according to claim 12 further comprises a device, it is used for monitoring in time service quality estimation approach separately, thereby detects in the possible physical communication paths variation that service quality is separately estimated.

19. one kind is used for system that service quality is positioned, it comprises:

Inflexible communication network in the time of relatively comprises:

Public acceptance point;

A plurality of transmitters that are used for sending signal to public acceptance point;

A plurality of communication medias, it is connected to public acceptance point with separately transmitter in a plurality of transmitters, and each communication media in wherein a plurality of communication medias all passes through at least one shared physical communication paths and at least one non-shared physical communication paths transmits data to public acceptance point; With

Be connected to the service quality locator on the public acceptance point, wherein, the service quality locator is estimated that specific service quality navigate in the physical communication paths possible in the communication network according to the analysis result that the service quality that receives from public acceptance point is estimated.

20. system according to claim 19 further comprises the distortion estimator that is connected to receiver and service quality estimator.Wherein distortion estimator is that each communication media in a plurality of communication medias determines that service quality estimates.

21. system according to claim 19 further comprises the memory that is connected to the service quality locator.

22. system according to claim 19 further comprises the network controller that is connected to the service quality locator.

23. system according to claim 19, wherein public acceptance point comprises a plurality of receivers.

24. system according to claim 19, wherein public acceptance point comprises an independent receiver.

25. system according to claim 19, wherein public acceptance point comprises the Cable Modem Terminal System of cable modem communication network.

26. system according to claim 25, wherein Cable Modem Terminal System comprises the service quality locator.

27. system according to claim 19 wherein comprises optical fiber link or cable link at least one shared physical communication paths.

28. system according to claim 19 wherein has one or more in a plurality of transmitters to be connected to public acceptance point by hub.

29. system according to claim 19, the one or more transmitters in wherein a plurality of transmitters are connected to public acceptance point by hub separately.