"This standard identifies the structure and the coded representation for trace message formats. Specifically@ trace message formats are described in a manner that makes them independent of transmission layer or technology ?C e.g.@ SONET@ SDH@ optical. Application of this standard to optical networks is for further study. Purpose This standard provides the code elements and format structures for trace messages. A path trace message (referred to as J1 or J2) consists of a sequence of bytes that is repetitively transmitted so that the receiving terminal in a path can verify it is connected to the intended transmitter. Similarly@ a section trace message (referred to as J0) consists of a one-byte or a sequence of bytes that is repetitively transmitted so that the receiving terminal in a section can verify it is connected to the intended transmitter. A tandem connection trace message (referred to as N1[7-8][9-72] or N2[7-8][9-72]) consists of a sequence of bits that is repetitively transmitted so that the receiving terminal in a tandem connection can verify it is connected to the intended transmitter. These codes provide a coded representation that simplifies the exchange of trace message information between telecommunications companies and customers. Trace messages that consist of intelligent codes are not only useful for verifying transmission@ but also provide operations systems valuable information (e.g.@ operator identification of source@ source and sink locations@ path/section functionality) for maintenance operations. Providing such intelligence in the network realizes one more step toward allowing the network to be the ""database of record."""