A whole network element can be represented
by a pictorial representation (bitmap image or vector drawing), a
symbol, or a shape. Not all physical details of the element are
visible in the representation.
Pictorial representation. The
network element base is a bitmap image or vector drawing. This
drawing is meant to be realistic. Several predefined bases are
available for shelf-based equipment, terminals, and mobile
phone access network elements. New bases can easily be
introduced by providing bitmap images.
Symbolic representation. The network
element base has a square and the network element function is
denoted by a symbol containing ITU/ANSI or traditional
symbols. The default type corresponding to the default
symbolic network element representation is called NE (Network
Element).
Symbolic representation of NE type
network element illustrates an NE type network element: here,
an add-drop multiplexer with a capacity of OC192.
Shape representation. The network
element base has a geometric shape that symbolizes the network
element type (or function class). The center of the base may
contain an icon that further refines the network element
function. Several predefined shapes are provided as types of
the network elements.
Shape representation of mux network
element illustrates a Mux shape network element.