Book Description

Fiber-based access is recognized as the most promising technology for solving broadband bandwidth bottlenecks. Time division multiplexing passive optical networks (TDM-PONs) that are passive and non-reconfigurable are currently the most widely deployed type of fiber access networks. However, due to their passive nature, TDM-PONs faces several limitations such as inflexible service area coverage, lack of intelligence for control, and inability to counteract security attacks. In order to address the current limitations of optical access networks, we propose reconfigurable technologies for next generation PONs. Two novel reconfigurable technologies are proposed, analyzed, and experimentally evaluated. The first solution is a reconfigurable power-and wavelength- assignment technology based on a novel non-volatile, reconfiguration node. The proposed remote node can reconfigure the network to adapt it to varying degrees of deployment conditions and/or network attacks. Moreover, the proposed remote node incorporates a novel quasi-passive device that does not consume energy once it is reconfigured into a new latching state. Therefore, the proposed remote node has very low energy consumption and does not require local power supply to preserve the passive character of the distribution network. In particular, two novel quasi-passive optical power splitter technologies based on Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) and transition metal oxide have been designed for the reconfigurable device. A simulation study shows the proposed reconfigurable device would outperform traditional passive splitter in terms of maximum number of supportable users under realistic deployment conditions. The second solution addresses the issue of reconfigurable network consolidation and infrastructure simplification. Current TDM-PONs suffers from limited reach and split-ratio. To enhance the performance in terms of service range and quality of service, reconfigurable network consolidation is a promising solution. It can also simplify the network and reduce cost. We propose the following novel reconfigurable technologies for consolidation and simplification of next generation access networks: (1) Passive reach-extension technology for the drop section of optical access networks; (2) Sleep mode ONUs for energy saving; (3) Centrally managed optical signature that can monitor and protect the upstream link; and (4) Multi-rate burst mode receivers. These reconfigurable technologies can bring the intelligence into optical access networks and improve the efficiency and flexibility for next generation optical access networks.