FIBER-TO-THE-HOME NETWORK ARCHITECTURE: A COMPARISON OF PON AND POINT-TO-POINT OPTICAL ACCESS NETWORKS

摘要

As observed early in this paper, optical access systems must meet a variety of service provider requirements, some of which are in conflict with one another. Point-to-point networks using off-the-shelf Enterprise networking type of equipment are attractive because a wide of variety of interoperable equipment is available, large amounts of bandwidth can be delivered and individual subscribers can be upgraded as necessary. The type of bandwidth delivered is more appropriate to high speed, IP-centric users such as businesses. These types of customers also can take better advantage of the upgrade step from 100Mbps to 1Gbps and the flexibility of per endpoint equipment evolution. As the density of subscribers served increases and the variety of services grows, as in residential deployments, the amount of fiber, Node equipment and number of components to integrate makes the point-to-point solution less optimal. Point-to-point networks in residential applications also have significant excess capacity relative to near term needs that must be carried in a business case. Some of the equipment integration and volume issues can be overcome by more integrated products but then the original advantages of using off-the-shelf equipment are negated. PON systems are designed to minimize Node equipment and fiber infrastructure. They are also usually designed for specific applications. Those targeted at residential use provide all required services in an integrated package at a relatively low price. Insuring easy evolution of a PON to increasing service demands requires forethought in network design, specifically in splitter placement. Evolution of the optoelectronics at either end also requires more planning as groups of subscribers are affected. Proper PON design, coupled with near term increases in PON speeds will deliver more than enough capacity for anticipated residential applications. Finally - and most importantly - complete, integrated PON solutions designed specifically for residential markets are available today. They offer a complete solution that is both cost effective and scalable to meet all anticipated residential needs.