NG PON 2: A Passive Optical Networks’ Guide for Newcomers

FACTS CHECKED BY  Jose George​

In the 1990s, working with telecommunication was completely different than it is today. Hardlines were the latest technology around and made everything possible despite its high price and maintenance.  Thankfully, fiber optic is here to help us solve many issues in a blink of an eye. It provides a cheaper, more sustainable, and efficient way to carry all kinds of data and more. In this article, you’ll learn everything about the TWDM-PON network.

Table of Contents

1. Evolution and Development

NG PON 2 cables are fiber optic’s new and improved counterpart. Then, what did people do to upgrade PON for a more stable data transferring and connection experience?

  • GPON Issues that Needed Fixing

GPON network architecture is a standard for passive optical networks. Commonly used in the last mile of FTTP services, GPON dealt with some cons that needed fixing. For example, GPON technology provides from 1.25 Gb/s upstream to 2.5 Gb/s downstream capacity. 

These numbers were good on paper, but when taken to reality, these capacity ranges cannot cope with the user demands. The reason? From 32 to 64 users must share said upstream and downstream capacity, even when using dynamic bandwidth allocation.

  • XG PON: Reaching the End of the Road

Also known as NG PON 1 or 10G PON, the XG PON upcycles GPON capacity by 3 to 4 times. This technology, although reliable, was extremely expensive and bound to get to a dead-end for many simple reasons. 

First, by relying on TDM technology, the XG PON standard faced limitations on the number of physical slots needed. And second, owners need to make big investments upfront without the warranty of reliable technology deployment and evolution. 

  • Reasons to Go with NG PON 2

First of all, using NG PON 2 allows you to enjoy a more stable, wider, and better bandwidth internet connection. Second, using multiple wavelengths in one ODN, ensures the probability to split the signal to different uses and devices. Third, by having symmetrical upstream/downstream capacity, TWDM-PON lets users use their connection as they please. This means that they can upload or download data of any kind, without affecting other users while at it.

In addition, TWDM-PON broadband service, provides users and operators an always-on telecommunication experience. 

2. What is NG PON 2?

Although it may seem complex at first, NG PON 2 standard is fairly easy to get a grasp on. Its main components make it a reliable and desirable protocol to safely transfer data of all kinds.

  • Capacity

NG PON 2 is a multi-wavelength passive optic network capable of working with 40 to 80 Gb/s. Also, it works with three different channel rates. These channels range from 10/10 Gbit/s to 2.5/2.5 Gbit/s and 10/2.5 Gbit/s per user. However, NG PON 2 has the capacity to produce from 1 to 4 different wavelength signals in the Optical Bands. This ensures the augmentation of the bandwidth to make it as symmetrical as possible using the L and C bands.

  • Downstream Channel

NG PON 2 offers symmetrical upstream/downstream capacities. However, channels work differently from one another. When it comes to downstream purposes, TWDM-PON wavelengths work in L-band at 1596-1603 nm. This position in the spectrum allows coexistence with RF video and Legacy PON.

  • Upstream Channel 

On the contrary, when it comes to upstream, NG PON 2 channels work in C-band. The upstream channel works in wide, reduced, and narrow bands, perfectly coexisting with WDM1r and RF video wavelengths. In addition, this upstream signal differs depending on the user. For example, a common household user needs more downstream than upstream capacities. On the other hand, businesses and content creators demand more upstream capacities or even symmetrical upstream/downstream ones.

3. Advantages of NG PON 2

Advantages are vital for users to pick one protocol over the other, and with NG PON 2, there’s no exception to it.

  • Using FTTH for Everything
Using FTTH for Everything

NG PON 2 allows operators to use FTTH architecture to provide service to different users using one single fiber cabinet. This means that it’s possible using different wavelengths for different users or even different rates in the same wavelengths. Said ability allows all kinds of users to enjoy the benefits of NG PON 2 without trouble.

  • Legacy PON Investment Fully Preserved

Updating passive optic network protocol from Legacy PON to NG PON 2 is possible, as both use the same main infrastructure. This means that all cables, cabinets, splitters, fibers, and more tangible goods stay the same. In fact, it’s possible to simply pile up NG PON 2 over GPON connections without interfering with its functioning. In addition, if operators find some competition, using the pre-existing infrastructure makes it easier to upgrade loyal high-end users.

  • Pay-As-You-Grow

Pay-as-you-grow allows users of all kinds to upgrade and expand the protocol from time to time. The key is to make a gradual expansion depending on how big or demanding the user is. This is a great option for small businesses to upgrade the TWDM-PON service as they grow, adapting to every users’ needs.

TWDM-PON offers many pros to users all around the globe. These pros allow users to fully enjoy stable, reliable, and upgradable internet connections. In addition, it allows operators to expand their businesses at the same time small businesses grow and upgrade their connections. 

Now, do you have a clear picture of it? If you look for help with your network or cables, feel free to contact us.