What is a passive optical network (PON)?
A passive optical network (PON) is a system commonly used by telecommunications network providers that brings fiber optic cabling and signals all or most of the way to the end user. Depending on where the PON terminates, the system can be described as fiber to the curb, fiber to the building or fiber to the home.
How does a passive optical network work?
A PON system consists of an optical line terminal (OLT) at the communication company's central office and several optical network units (ONUs) near end users. Typically, up to 32 to 128 ONUs can be connected to a single OLT. The word passive simply describes the fact that optical transmission has no power requirements or active electronic parts once the signal is being transmitted across the network. This is in contrast to active optical networks, which require electrically powered switching hardware to pass cells or frames across the fiber cabling.
What is EdgePON or Remote OLT (rOLT)?
An EdgePON or remote OLT (rOLT) extends the reach of a traditional Optical Line Terminal by relocating key access functions closer to subscribers. As an intelligent node within the PON infrastructure, it connects ONUs, ONTs, and CPE devices to the aggregation or Layer 3 IP network, enabling efficient service delivery in areas beyond the practical reach of a centralized OLT. This approach increases network flexibility and scalability, helping broadband providers expand high-speed fiber services while supporting applications such as MDUs, B2B deployments, and suburban infill developments.
