Why might a technician who is troubleshooting an outage in an optical network want to refer to the network's as-built documentation?

Referring to the network's as-built documentation is vital for a technician troubleshooting an outage in an optical network because this documentation provides detailed information about the network's physical layout. Among the critical data available in as-built documentation are specific cable lengths, which are essential for understanding how the network is constructed. Knowing the exact lengths of the cables can assist the technician in identifying potential issues related to cable breaks, excess bends, or improper installations that could lead to disruptions in service.

Additionally, understanding cable lengths can also aid in determining connection points and identifying which segments of the network may be affected by the outage. Therefore, having this precise information allows for a more efficient and accurate troubleshooting process, ultimately leading to a quicker resolution of the problem.