Broadband optical network apparatus and method
US7181142B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 9, 2002 |
| Grant date | Feb 20, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 23, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04Q2011/0015
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Methods and apparatus for providing enhanced optical networking service and performance which are particularly advantageous in terms of low cost and use of existing infrastructure, access control techniques, and components. In the exemplary embodiment, current widespread deployment and associated low cost of Ethernet-based systems are leveraged through use of an Ethernet CSMA/CD MAC in the optical domain on a passive optical network (PON) system. Additionally, local networking services are optionally provided to the network units on the PON since each local receiver can receive signals from all other users. An improved symmetric coupler arrangement provides the foregoing functionality at low cost. The improved system architecture also allows for fiber failure protection which is readily implemented at low cost and with minimal modification.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.