Gigabit Passive Optical Networks (GPON) are the backbone of
modern high-speed internet. But are they right for you?In this comprehensive
survey of GPON technology, we explain how GPON works, as well as discuss the
advantages and disadvantages of these optical networks.About
GPON
Gigabit Passive Optical Networks (GPON) is a communications
technology that harnesses the power of optical fiber to deliver high-speed
internet, television and other services to homes and businesses. The term
"passive" highlights its unique characteristics: it uses passive
components such as optical splitters to deliver data signals without the need
for active electronic devices on-site. How does
GPON work?
GPON is essentially based on a combination of optical fibers,
optical splitters, and dedicated equipment to transmit data between the central
office and the end user premises. Let's take a closer look at the key
components and processes that make up GPON technology:
Optical Line Terminal (OLT): The journey starts at the
central office where the OLT is installed. This high-performance device acts as
the brain of the GPON network. It communicates with the Optical Network Unit
(ONU) at the customer premises and manages the data distribution.
Optical Fiber: The backbone of GPON is optical fiber. Optical
fiber is a thin strand of glass or plastic that can transmit data using light
signals. Fiber optic cables connect the OLT in the exchange with the ONU at the
customer premises. It acts as a data highway on which information is
transmitted in the form of light.
Optical Splitter: To distribute the optical signal
efficiently, optical splitters are used in GPON networks. These passive devices
split the incoming optical signal from the OLT into multiple paths. Each path
leads to a single ONU. Typical splitter ratios are 1:2, 1:4, 1:8, and 1:32,
depending on the network design.
Optical Network Unit (ONU): ONUs are customer-facing
equipment in a GPON network. They are installed at the customer premises and
receive the optical signal from the OLT and convert it into an electrical
signal that can be used by the customer's devices, such as computers, routers,
and set-top boxes.
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