[Paper Review] Technological and Cost based Analysis of Future-Proof Fiber Access Passive Networks: GPON and WDM PON

Satyanarayana Katla, Abhinov Balagoni|arXiv (Cornell University)|Aug 24, 2013

Advanced Photonic Communication Systems4 references3 citations

TL;DR

This paper analyzes GPON and WDM PON technologies for future-proof fiber access networks, comparing their technical architectures and cost structures. It concludes that WDM PON offers superior scalability and vendor interoperability compared to GPON, positioning it as a more viable next-generation solution despite GPON's current deployment dominance.

ABSTRACT

This paper discusses the key principles of Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) which is based on Time Division Multiplexing Passive Optical Network (TDM PON) and Wavelength Division Multiplexing Passive Optical Network (WDM PON), which is considered to be next generation passive optical network. In the present day scenario, access to broad- band is increasing at a rapid pace. Because of the advantages of fiber access in terms of capacity and cost, most of the countries have started deploying GPON access as an important part of national strategy. Though GPON is promising, it has few limitations. On the other hand WDM PON, a next generation network, is quite promising unlike GPON, it is easily scalable and interoperable with different vendors. This paper provides an overview of GPON, WDM PON and its key dissimilarities based on technicalities and cost.

Motivation & Objective

• To evaluate the technical and economic viability of GPON and WDM PON for future fiber access networks.
• To identify the limitations of GPON in terms of scalability and vendor interoperability.
• To assess WDM PON as a next-generation alternative with enhanced scalability and flexibility.
• To provide a comparative analysis of GPON and WDM PON based on key performance and cost factors.

Proposed method

• Analyzes the underlying principles of GPON based on Time Division Multiplexing (TDM) in passive optical networks.
• Reviews the operational mechanisms of WDM PON, which uses wavelength division multiplexing for increased capacity.
• Compares the two technologies across technical parameters such as scalability, capacity, and vendor interoperability.
• Evaluates cost structures and deployment economics for both GPON and WDM PON solutions.
• Uses a comparative framework to assess performance, scalability, and cost-effectiveness.

Experimental results

Research questions

• RQ1 How do GPON and WDM PON differ in terms of technical architecture and scalability?
• RQ2 What are the key limitations of GPON that hinder future network evolution?
• RQ3 To what extent can WDM PON support multi-vendor interoperability compared to GPON?
• RQ4 How do the deployment and operational costs of GPON and WDM PON compare?
• RQ5 Which technology offers a more sustainable and future-proof solution for broadband access?

Key findings

• WDM PON demonstrates superior scalability compared to GPON due to its wavelength-based capacity expansion.
• WDM PON supports better interoperability across different vendors, reducing vendor lock-in risks.
• GPON, while widely deployed, faces inherent limitations in capacity growth and network flexibility.
• The cost structure of WDM PON is favorable for future deployment, especially in high-capacity scenarios.
• WDM PON is positioned as a more viable next-generation solution for future-proof fiber access networks.