Learn about Passive Optical Networks including the components in the system, PON topology and more!

Project Abstract

Home and small-business internet is delivered via point to multi-point optical system called Passive Optical Networks (PON). The PON system is made up of three main 3 components: Optical Line Terminal (OLT) Optical Network Unit (ONU) and an optical splitter. The OLT is used to transmit and receive the data via fiber from the central hub to the optical splitter. From there the splitter outputs as many as 32 end-users from just a single fiber input. The ONU is the end source that connects end-users to the system for fast and reliable wireless connectivity. PON connects millions of Canadians to faster internet service with millions more connected each year. As more companies begin to install fiber optic cables, an increasing number of businesses are offering PON systems to customers, but network devices currently have no industry standard on how they should operate, making it difficult for telecommunication providers to on-board new vendors, devices and PON technologies.

The goal of our capstone project is to work alongside representatives from TELUS to put together a solution of a passive optical network (PON) system architecture using PON devices and equipment from two different vendors and standardize their features so that they operate in the same manner, allowing them to operate together in a passive optical network. This would allow for more plug-and-play interoperability in TELUS' networks across Canada, since currently there are limitations on most device interoperability. Ciena has partnered with us in this project and provided us with a complete PON system along with management software which all have been installed in the Optophotonics Lab at Algonquin College. Ciena also provides with the technical support on their equipment. We’re implementing this solution by using software-defined network (SDN) technologies to standardize the differences in device functionalities.

Components