ICTNPL403
Evaluate the capability of access networks


Application

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to gather information on the types of access networks and evaluate their capability to meet present and future demands, including evaluation and comparison of competing access network technologies.

It applies to individuals with a range of telecommunications skills and extensive knowledge of core and access network capabilities of the service provider. It prepares individuals for entry into planning and design for network additions and implementations to accommodate network growth and new technologies within the industry.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

Element

Performance Criteria

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Scope the project

1.1 Prepare for given work according to site-specific safety requirements and enterprise work health and safety (WHS) processes and procedures

1.2 Determine types of access networks currently deployed by accessing and using network information sources

1.3 Determine nature, quantity, architecture and condition of existing network equipment and their attributes

1.4 Produce a brief on deployment scope of current access networks, including geographical limitations and their contribution to the larger network

2. Assess capability and technologies of current and future access networks

2.1 Produce layout of the topology of identified types of access networks with network elements clearly indicated

2.2 Evaluate equipment type and technologies of the access network to determine compatibility with existing network equipment and interoperability with other networks

2.3 Assess current and future capability and limitations of the network to ensure potential growth of the network

2.4 Determine future offerings of product and services outlining product offerings allowable over each network

3. Document capability evaluation

3.1 Assess capability of current access networks to deliver products and services to customers

3.2 Recommend preferred solutions for network growth with future capabilities

Evidence of Performance

Evidence of ability to:

evaluate capability and limitations of the various access network technologies for present and future needs

determine and source equipment that will be used across the spectrum of access network technologies

outline product offerings allowable across all competing access network technologies.

Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.


Evidence of Knowledge

To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:

identify access networks from information sources

explain access networks in terms of:

common attributes and features

typical access network technologies and topologies

explain how to assess capability and limitations of a network including:

its contribution to the boarder network; and,

its capacity to deliver customer products and services

outline typical problems and challenges that arise from working with access network technologies

explain the basis on which various network technologies are selected.


Assessment Conditions

Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances must be typical of those experienced in the Telecommunications – Network Planning field of work and include access to:

network design documentation and other site related documentation

equipment specifications

live network or training facilities

organisational guidelines

networked computers

networked telecommunications components.

Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational education and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.


Foundation Skills

This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.

Skill

Performance Criteria

Description

Reading

1.1-1.4, 2.2-2.4, 3.1

Identifies and evaluates written and visual text in specialised workplace documentation to determine key information and specific requirements

Writing

1.4, 2.1, 3.2

Develops material for a specific audience using clear and detailed language and expected forms and conventions

Oral Communication

1.3, 1.4, 3.2

Articulates technical information using an appropriate tone and vocabulary for intended audience

Numeracy

1.4, 2.1, 2.2

Employs mathematical calculations to determine features and limitations of different networks and equipment

Navigate the world of work

1.1

Takes personal responsibility for following explicit and implicit policies, procedures and legislative requirements

Interact with others

3.2

Selects and uses appropriate conventions and protocols when communicating with clients and co-workers in a range of work contexts

Get the work done

1.1-1.3, 2.2-2.4, 3.1, 3.2

Takes responsibility for planning, sequencing and prioritising tasks and own workload for efficiency and effective outcomes

Makes routine decisions and implements standard procedures for routine tasks, using formal decision-making processes for more complex and non-routine situations

Addresses less predictable problems and initiates standard procedures in response, applying problem-solving processes in determining a solution


Sectors

Telecommunications – Network Planning