Plenary/Plenary Session

1.Futurewei Technologies

This talk considers the future evolution of PON technology through 2025, considering both the available technologies to implement them, and the apparent applications to use them. In a distinct shift from the previous linear speed-based evolution of PON, it is expected that several distinct PON systems will be developed. The first is the continuation of single-channel TDMA PONs, this time to 50 Gb/s. This is meant to be the successor to XG(S)-PON, and aims to be a lower cost solution. Since it is an evolutionary system, its coexistence with previous generations is very important. The second is an evolution of the TWDM-PON family of systems, also extending the per-channel line rate to 50 Gb/s. The TWDM-PON currently sees some application in business services where its special features are needed, and this extension allows the provision of multiple 10 Gb/s UNIs on each channel. The third is a system using wavelength routing devices to increase capacity and optical efficiency beyond that possible with splitters. The near term applications of this type of system include 5G wireless fronthaul, and the “SuperPON” concept (where several TWDM PONs are combined with a wavelength router to achieve greater fiber sharing). Beyond the physical layer technology, the talk also considers the application of SDN and NFV techniques. Counter to the popular opinion, we find very little to be gained by employing these methods. In contrast, it is the business model that requires innovation. Unbridled plug-and-play interoperability requires the equitable reallocation of development costs.