Enhanced TWDM lowers cost for gigabit ultra-broadband for backhaul, small cells
Operators are looking to upgrade fixed-line networks to meet demands for data-hungry enterprise cloud services, mobile backhaul for small cell deployments and consumer applications. TWDM-PON (Time and Wavelength Division Multiplexed Passive Optical Networks) is seen as ideal thanks to its highly flexible, 40 Gbps capacity. However, the current cost of TWDM-PON means that it is better suited for premium gigabit services. For deployments not immediately requiring the full capacity, operators need a TWDM system with a lower entry cost.
Alcatel-Lucent has solved this issue with ‘Universal TWDM’, an enhancement to its existing TWDM. By allowing different types of optics to be used, it enables operators to initially deploy 10 Gbps capacity and easily add more as demand grows, providing a smooth upgrade to full TWDM without the need to replace network components, evaluate new technology, or reconfigure operations and business support systems (OSS/BSS).
TWDM-PON requires new optics capable of providing four tunable 10 Gbps wavelengths. With these optics not yet available in large quantities, TWDM’s current cost is higher than established technologies.
However, Universal TWDM enables operators to accelerate TWDM adoption by providing a lower cost option that scales to full TWDM as demand for gigabit services grows. It also enables operators to:
- Start with one non-tunable 10 Gbps wavelength using commonly available optics, significantly reducing the initial cost of TWDM;
- Add more wavelengths – and more capacity – as required by plugging in more optics;
- Upgrade seamlessly to full 40 Gbps TWDM without replacing network components – such as line cards, access nodes and optical network units – or reconfigure OSS/BSS;
- Protect existing fiber investments, as Universal TWDM and full TWDM-PON can co-exist with current PON technology.
Compared to established 10 Gbps technologies, such as XG-PON1, Universal TWDM: has a similar initial cost, has a significantly lower cost when switching to full TWDM-PON, and provides greater revenue opportunities as it supports asymmetrical and symmetrical gigabit services, which are particularly important for enterprise cloud services.
White Paper:
TWDM-PON is on the Horizon: Facilitating fast FTTx network monetization
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