Full service optical access networks: ATM transport on passive optical networks

Multimedia communication has become the driving force for installing broadband systems in the public network. Different alternative solutions have been presented to realize a broadband interactive access network, such as installing optical fiber or upgrading the existing copper network with ADSL for twisted pair or hybrid fiber coax for CATV networks. Among these alternatives, optical fiber access networks are seen as the most future-safe solution. Especially, passive optical networks prove to be a cost-effective way to introduce fiber into the access network. This article presents ATM-based transport on passive optical networks, starting with a current implementation of an ATM-PON (APON) system that has already been installed for various trials. It further describes the evolution of APON systems to high-splitting, long-range PONs. The increase in both number of subscribers and distance range is discussed in combination with some specific technological issues such as upstream burst mode optical amplification. Special emphasis is placed on the work carried out within the scope of the ACTS PLANET project.