Configuration Management

DICOM requires fixed IP addresses and configuring AE Titles at each individual device. Dynamic addressing as is used for most networks to date is not provided. Configuration management defines the use of external (non-DICOM) protocols to perform functions during configuration and operation of DICOM networks and network applications.
The profiles address the use cases for:

· Automatic self-configuration on power up

· Installation of new DICOM equipment

· Network and device reconfiguration

· Multiple device time synchronization

The configuration management tasks are being performed by making explicit requirements that specific external protocols be used with specific selections of options and parameters. The following protocols are used for the configuration management:

· The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), which automates the configuration of computers that use TCP/IP. DHCP can be used to automatically assign IP addresses, deliver TCP/IP configuration parameters (such as the subnet mask and default router) and provide other configuration information such as the addresses of time servers.

· Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP), which programs use to look up contact information from a server.

· Network Time Protocol (NTP) which is designed to synchronize the clocks of computers over a network.

· Domain Name System (DNS) which is a distributed internet directory service.

There are three profiles included as part of configuration management:

· The Basic Network Address Management Profile – This profile utilizes DHCP to provide services to assign and manage IP parameters.

· Basic Time Synchronization Profile – The basic time synchronization profile defines services to synchronize the clocks on multiple computers.

· Application Configuration Management Profile – The application configuration management profile uses LDAP to exchange and manage the device parameters.