Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) is a passive network that started in the 90s. It makes use of fiber optics which create a network granting users access. Optical line terminals (OLT) start by converting signals to light. A single optical fiber carries a light signal over short and even long distances. The single optical fiber then undergoes division into separate strands via a splitter. Since the data is delivered using a standard Ethernet connection, an optical network terminal plays the role of converting the light to this form. Most people view GPON as an excellent option for voice and data cabling. Its popularity in America as far as cabling systems are concerned is one such example owing to its numerous advantages.
One benefit of GPON is that it can transmit data over longer distances than other cabling systems. The distance ranges from 10 to 20km. Other cabling systems such as conventional copper are limited to only about 100 meters.
GPON is also known for its higher speeds compared to other cabling systems. Their bandwidth is classified as high performance and ranges between five gigabits per second (5Gbps) and 25 Gbps. The five is usually down and goes to maximum performance at 25. Larger businesses can access speeds of up to 40 Gbps. These speeds are too high when comparing these cables with copper wires. These speeds can be transmitted over long distances, making them more preferred than copper wires.
The space occupied by GPON fiber cables is much smaller than that of copper wires. It is, in fact, just a fraction of the copper wires. Less space is needed when connecting it in a building. Extended signal reach technology has also reduced the need for signal boosting equipment which occupied a lot of space. A few server rooms and equipment are needed to sustain business network needs. The reduced number of boosting equipment and the small size of the wires makes the network available without a lot of space. A single optical fiber can split up to 32 signals to serve up to around 128 end ports.
The cost has been reduced with GPON technology in place. GPON cables are cheaper compared to copper LAN cables. With reduced server rooms, less money is needed in the installation than the bulky copper wires. Long-term saving is enabled by eliminating the need to have wiring closets and other associated electronics in place. The cost of GPON is around 40-50% less. It takes a shorter time to set it up and run with reduced costs. A splitter can split a single fiber into many different signals, eliminating more fiber. Maintenance is not done frequently, like in the case of copper wires. Equipment failure is rare and hence requires less maintenance. Such things make it very economical.
GPON has the capacity to offer a variety of services. Such services include surveillance cameras, data, voice coverage, and Wi-Fi, among other network functions. These services are all essential in conducting business. Having all these services provided by this single cabling system also helps save on costs that could be spent having each function with its own cabling system. The diversity of GPON in terms of performance makes it outdo other systems. Managing GPON is easier, and troubleshooting can be done in a few easy steps.
Conserving the environment is always an objective of any IT system. GPON is environmentally friendly. Less electricity and air conditioning are needed when using GPON. This is attributed to it not requiring certain specified operating temperatures. Fewer components and requirements are needed to run. The efficiency and high-level technology needed to set up the cabling system make it one of the best innovations of recent times.
GPON is an innovative technology with excellent features compared to copper cables used before. It surpasses copper cables by far from efficiency to being economical and environmentally friendly. Their network is easily managed and requires less maintenance adding to its special characteristics. Less equipment is needed during installation. These features have made it popular, especially in the US and other nations. The providence of GPON advantages Ethernet users. It is an innovation that would see brighter days ahead.