GPON technology
GPON fiber-optic network is becoming increasingly popular as it guarantees fast and secure connection to the Internet. Moreover, its assembly and installation is very cost-effective and easy. This technology has great potential, so it is important to have an idea of what it is.
What is GPON technology?
To begin with, it would be best to explain what GPON technology is . The acronym stands for Gigabit-Capable Passive Optical Networks . This is the latest variant of the passive optical network PON, described in the standard ITU-T G.984.x. The FSAN (Full Service Access Network) group is responsible for its creation, which created it as a successor to the APON / BPON standard.
GPON is a much more efficient technology as it provides 2488 Mbps from OLT to ONT and 1244 Mbps from ONT to OLT. It is based on the P2MP architecture. Its optical parameters are defined in the G.984.2 standard.
GPON networks are delivered in different ways using different variants of FTTx optical infrastructure, from fiber to X. There are many variants, but there are four main, most common ones:
- FTTH - Fiber to the Home ;
- FTTF - Fiber to the Flat ;
- FTTB - Fiber to the Building ;
- FTTC / FTTO - Fiber to the Curb and Fiber to the Office.
Advantages of using passive optical networks
GPON is considered a passive technology because it does not require any additional devices for communication between the operator and the recipient. Only OLT ( optical line termination ) by the operator and ONT / ONU ( optical network terminal unit / optical network unit ) by the user are active.
GPON network allows multiple connections over a single fiber optic cable. The operator only needs to put a splitter in the right place and the signal can be split to 128 recipients(or more). It works similarly to cable TV installed in an apartment building. GPON transmits not only high speed internet, but also telephony and television.
With FTTH, you can bring the latest services into your home, including next-generation television, cloud services, or even a smart home system. GPON network allows you to quickly receive and transmit huge data resources without any technological limitations. The application of this technology opens up many different possibilities.
GPON for operators
GPON supports the business of operators because it is an extremely profitable solution. Using this technology allows to significantly reduce capital expenditures at all stages of implementation - from construction to final implementation. In addition, maintenance of the fiber optic network is also significantly cheaper.
An additional advantage for suppliers is the fact that, thanks to appropriate terminal devices, the use of optical fiber allows the introduction of a modern model of differentiated services. Such an offer stands out in the market and attracts many interested customers.
Pros and cons of GPON connection
Of course, this standard has its strengths, but there are also disadvantages. It is good to know the pros and cons of GPON connection.
The advantages are certainly the following:
- optical cable with a stable large capacity,
- the ability to send and receive huge data resources,
- safety (reduced risk of electric shock);
- possibility to combine several services, e.g. telephone / TV / Internet;
- uninterrupted access to the Internet regardless of electricity (thanks to the use of additional devices);
- inspections without disconnecting the network.
To the disadvantages, in turn, can be attributed:
- thin fiber optic cable, which is easily damaged without proper protection;
- lengthy preparation for installation;
- problems with detecting possible faults;
- operators are not ready to utilize the full potential of the speed and capacity offered.
Optical fibers are gradually replacing traditional copper cables. GPON is a step into a future that transcends further technological limitations. There is no doubt that the development of this solution should be supported.