Why GPON Broadband Technology is the Next Big Thing

First made available in the middle of the 90s, passive optical networks (PON) have gradually undergone massive improvements with the establishment of several standards. Of particular is the Gigabit PON (GPON), a new optical solution resulting from efforts by the Full-Service Access Networks (FSAN) consortium to standardize PON networks operating at bit rates above 1 Gbit/sec. 

GPON has been billed as the next big thing in optical access networks. The network offers unprecedented high bit rate support while still enabling the transfer of multiple services, i.e., voice, data, and IP video, in their original formats and with extremely high efficiency. GPON leverages a fiber-optic broadband connection to create a point-to-multipoint network, allowing individual users comprehensive access to any Ethernet end-point. GPON implements enhancements in data transmission distance and bandwidth, allowing for fast and secure data transmission. Here's a look at why broadband technology is poised to change optical data transmission for the better. 

About GPON 

GPON is the most advanced PON protocol currently in the market, providing multiple-service support. The protocol packs outstanding OAM&P features, enabling it to offer far higher efficiency and higher bit rates when compared to ATM-and Ethernet-based PON technologies.

GPON also offers the lowest cost for all modes of operation. The cost of running a GPON protocol is meager, considering that it doesn't require external IT support. Besides, it's a passive system; therefore, it uses very little energy. 

Features of GPON 

The main features of GPON based upon the requirements implemented by the FSAN group is as below: 

• Full-Service Support, including voice (TDM), Ethernet, ATM, leased lines, and others

• Physical maximum reach of at least 20 km with logical reach support within the protocol of 60 km

• Support for various bit rate options using the same protocol, including symmetrical 622 Mbits/sec, symmetrical 1.25 Gbits/sec, 2.5 Gbits/sec downstream, 1.25 Gbits/sec upstream, and others

• Strong Operations, Administration, Maintenance, and Provisioning (OAM&P) capabilities offering end-to-end service management

• Security at the protocol level for downstream traffic due to the multicast nature of PON

Why GPON is the Next Frontier in Optical Access Networks 

Passive optical network technologies are network backbones that help organizations achieve cost-effective speed upgrades, higher bandwidth, legacy system compatibility, and flexible network topology. GPON is by far the most efficient and cost-friendly passive optical network protocol with enormous potential to transform optical networks for the better. 

GPON offers higher efficiency and bit rates when transferring multiple services over the PON. The protocol boasts of exceptionally high bandwidth utilization for any type of service and a variant of standard ITU-T Generic Framing Protocol (GFP) encapsulation of different types of services both packet and TDM, onto a synchronous transport protocol. Besides, it has a lower operating cost and a much faster payback period than passive network technologies, i.e., APON and EPON. 

What Makes GPON Feature Shine Bright? 

Greater Transmission Range with Faster Speeds 

GPON optical systems can transmit data over 10 to 20 kilometers compared to copper, managing a range of 100 meters only. The optical protocol also provides high-performance bandwidth of 2.5 gigabits per second (Gbps) downstream and 1.25 Gbps upstreram. The fact that GPON can transmit data over long distances without compromising on the speed makes it the best POS. 

Security 

Cybersecurity is now more critical for any business than before. GPON offers exceptionally high levels of security where data is encrypted to keep it secure. The protocol cannot be tapped or hijacked, ensuring total data security. 

Superior Technology 

GPON packs more advanced features compared to other technologies. For instance, the network protocol supports the employment of burst-mode (high-speed) transmission with statistical usage capabilities, dynamic control, and bandwidth sharing, as well as access to information rate parameters. Its superior technology makes it the best POS network available. 

Scalability 

In addition to being highly secure and efficient, GPON delivers simplicity and superb scalability allowing for future expansion. It provides a straightforward migration path for adding services onto the PON using the Generic Framing Procedure (GFP)-based adoption method. This is unlike APON and EPON, which require a specific adaptation method for each service and new methods for adopting merging services. As such, GPON scalability facilitates future IT infrastructure expansion, giving it a competitive edge over other POS.  

Final Thoughts 

GPON immense potential indeed makes it the next big thing in optical access networks. It's undoubtedly the most advanced PON protocol with plenty of benefits, including scalability, low operation cost, multi-service support, security, faster speeds, and sophisticated technology. If you're thinking of shifting your home or business network from Cable or DSL transmission to POS, look no further than GPON.