With the construction of 5G network, PON‘s story is turning a new page. This time, the next generation of PON technology is adopting a new paradigm to more effectively implement higher capacity. 25G PON will utilize the data center ecosystem rather than the transmission system historically used in PON technology. It represents the next stage in the evolution of optical fiber, which is also a new dimension of PON story.

    As the number of data center deployments increases, the number of 25G optical devices will increase and the cost of devices will decrease. Of course, it is not possible to plug these data center components directly into the optical line terminal (OLT) and optical network unit (ONU) transceivers. PON applications will require new wavelengths, higher transmitter power, and higher receiver sensitivity.

    In terms of market demand, the second factor required for the success of 25G PON is to ensure that 25G has clear use cases, including residential, commercial, and so on. The residential market can provide an opportunity to converge gigabit services on PON. In the commercial space, 25G will offer 10G or more, which can be extended to enterprises.

    In addition, with the advent of 5G, long-distance transmission will require 25G. Although XGS-PON or 10G PTP can effectively solve the medium-range and backhaul problems, 25G PON is required for higher density and higher throughput of single cell due to the increase of rf bandwidth and MIMO antenna layer. At the same time, 25G PON is consistent with the evolution of mobile networks, as the 25G physical interface will be used for centralized and distributed units.

   The 25G PON is the most effective method to evolve the fiber network to the next generation. It is a simple technology that USES a single wavelength and does not require a tunable laser. It can coexist with GPON and XGS-PON and provide higher 25Gb/s downlink rate and 25Gb/s or 10Gb/s uplink rate. It is also based on mature optical technologies and a growing ecosystem, allowing the technology to be brought to market faster. It can meet the needs of higher density residential, commercial and other needs in the short term, while coping with the competitive threat of 25G EPON and cable TV operators.