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With the rapid growth of the digital economy and smart society, FTTH (Fiber to the Home) has become the core solution for global fixed broadband deployment. To deliver high-quality transmission from the operator’s central office to the end-user, several key technologies in the access network play a vital role. This article provides an overview of the main components of FTTH access networks.
The OLT is located in the operator’s central office and acts as the “brain” of the FTTH network. It controls downstream data delivery, upstream data reception, bandwidth allocation, user authentication, and security management. With the evolution of 10G-PON, XG-PON, and 50G-PON, the OLT defines the network’s performance and capacity.
The ODN connects the OLT and the end-users, consisting of optical cables, splitters, fiber distribution boxes, and splice closures. As a passive network, it requires no external power supply, ensuring high reliability.
One of the key devices is the optical splitter, which divides a single fiber into 32, 64, or even 128 branches, enabling large-scale user access at reduced costs.
Deployed at the user’s premises, the ONU/ONT converts optical signals into electrical signals, providing access for computers, TVs, smartphones, and smart home devices. Future ONUs are expected to integrate more intelligent features such as low-latency processing, home network optimization, and unified voice/video services.
PON is the backbone of FTTH. Current mainstream standards include:
EPON/GPON: 1G~2.5G, widely deployed.
10G-EPON/XG-PON: meeting gigabit broadband and enterprise demands.
NG-PON2 / 50G-PON: enabling ultra-high bandwidth and 5G backhaul.
PON relies on passive optical splitting, minimizing active equipment and lowering OPEX, making it the foundation for large-scale FTTH adoption.
WDM (Wavelength Division Multiplexing) for maximizing fiber capacity.
AI-powered intelligent network management for predictive maintenance and self-healing.
Green and sustainable solutions with low-power optical modules and eco-friendly materials.
From OLT and ODN to ONU and PON, along with new innovations, FTTH access networks build a high-speed, stable, and low-latency infrastructure. This not only supports household broadband but also enables cloud computing, big data, telemedicine, and smart city applications.
As an industry-leading optical communication manufacturer, CY-FIBER specializes in MPO/MTP connectors, fiber patch cords, waterproof fiber components, and FTTH solutions, delivering high-quality and scalable products to global customers and driving the development of the digital society.