Optical Access Networks

5.7 Summary

In this chapter, we first reviewed the Ethernet PON (EPON) which is standardized in the IEEE 802.3ah. We reviewed the multi-point control protocol (MPCP) standardized for EPON. We then discussed dynamic bandwidth allocation (DBA) algorithms for EPON, and the IPACT protocol in particular. Several commercial initiatives on EPON are undergoing and products are expected as soon as standardization efforts are complete.

Then, we studied the ATM-PON (APON) (also called Broadband PON (BPON)) and the GFP-PON. We discussed the WDM-PON, which is gaining attention as an attractive solution for solving the broadband access needs in the future. WDM-PONS are still in the process of test trials by several organizations and research communities. These two technologies (EPON and WDM-PON) will clearly go a long way towards meeting future end-user broadband requirements. Finally, we discussed various aspects related to the scalability and deployment of PONS and the concept of open access in broadband access networks which is gaining a lot of ground.