The Future World of Fiber Optics Is Electrifying
Multiple System Operators, Telco, Wireline, and Wireless service provider networks are all advertising next-generation technology levels and promising to provide next-generation facilities.
While Providers of MSOs/CATV are opening up Distributed Access Architectures, making digital optics more accessible to the subscriber, Telco/Wireline providers are projecting next-generation PON for the future of their network evolution.
In the meantime, the 5G wireless network is significant in the whole industry as the initiating factor for a broader convergence of networking. In 2019, the scheme to massively operate and subsequently combine these technologies seemed like hype, not an assurance. However, the question remains; is your network all set for the hype?
Distributed Access Architectures (DAA)
There is discussion about the needs of setting up SFP-type transceivers deeper into the network to facilitate DAA’s like digital return path, RemoteMAC, and RemotePHY. The most up-to-the-minute trends in this field suggest 10G DWDM SPF+ transceivers installed in conventional CATV nodes, as well as in external plant cabinets to back Remote MAC and RemotePHY. Latest OEM RemotePHY nodes require these 10G transceivers to ensure they are rated for industrial temperatures of even up to 90°C!
Next-Generation PON Architecture
Different from the upgrade to GPON from BPON, migrating to EPON or 10G variants from GPON will, evidently, not be trivial.
Instead, these technologies can be converged on a similar network alongside existing next-generation PON options (such as XGS-PON, XG-PON, and 10GEPON), the near-future generation NG-PON2, and not excluding point-to-point Ethernet services.
As service providers use passive WDM networking, they are facilitated enough to control current fiber and PON infrastructure for diverse service offerings, plus wireless, residential, and commercial backhaul. Service providers will be faced with an additional challenge of securing the suitable passive components for their network. As every service provider has distinctive demands, next-generation PON will, by little, surpass mere reference architecture.
5G wireless will facilitate network convergence and the installation of DAA and next-generation PON. It also guarantees data rates up to 10 times existing LTE services.
5G will depend on fiber-fed small cells near the subscriber. Similar to next-generation PON, 5G will converge with LTE wireless and current broadband services, and just like DAA, 5G will install digital SFP-type transceivers deeper into the network. DAA and next-gen PON networks are enough to provide the fiber access and data rates that 5G front-haul and backhaul needs.
Technology cycles are the impressive parts of this industry! Still, guarantees of new technologies always seem like hype.
Actually, in a matter of probably 1, 2, or 3 years, we will experience the massive scale NG-PON2, RemotePHY, or 5G wireless operations. So, it is not too early to ask if you are prepared for the hype!
