Link functions are used to create relationships between objects in the network. When two objects are linked, a relationship is recorded that describes how the objects are connected to each other.

Links are used in several products to describe the network’s structure and enable analysis, tracing, and documentation of the network.

Examples of relationships include:

•a cable connected to a node,

•a cable connected to equipment,

•a conduit containing a cable,

•a fiber connected to another fiber.

 

Connect two objects

Use the Connectfeature  to create a relationship between two objects.

1. Select Edit >  Object >  Connect (J) or press n the toolbar.

2. Select the first object.

3. Select the object to which the first object should be linked.

 

Once the link is created, the objects’ relationships are updated in the database.

 

Status messages

Instructions and status messages are displayed in the status bar at the bottom of the application while the link is being created.

Unlink objects

If a relationship is no longer relevant, the link can be removed.

1. Select the existing link.

2. Select the function to disconnect or remove the connection.

3. Confirm the action.

 

When the link is removed, the objects’ relationships in the database are updated.

Links and Topology

Connections are used to describe the network’s topology—that is, how objects are related to one another.

By creating, modifying, or deleting connections, you can influence how the network is analyzed and presented in the system.

 

Product-Specific Features

 

dpCom

In dpCom, connections are used both to describe links between objects and to describe how objects are organized within the network structure.

For example:

•cables be placed in pipes,

•pipes be placed in ducts,

•ducts be placed in routes.

 

These relationships are used by functions that analyze the network’s structure and routing paths.

 

Automatic fiber connection

When connecting a cable to an ODF, the system can automatically create fiber and connector connections.

This feature is enabled via the user settings in dpCom.

If existing connections are detected, you can choose to:

•connect automatically,

•connect the cable and open the fiber connection tool,

•connect the cable only.

 

For more information, see the section Connect Fiber.

 

Connect ducts

The Connect function can also be used to connect ducts.

For the connection to be made, the cables in question must share a common end node.

If the node contains a duct splice box, the connection is made in the existing splice box.

After a successful connection, tracking of the continuous duct path is automatically activated.