Passive Optical Networks (PON) dominates the FTTx media coverage. However, there is another interesting alternative, Active Ethernet. It is worth of reading in my opinion.  Stephen Hardy has a very good paper about  that.

 

 

Active Ethernet FTTH offers PON alternative

by Stephen Hardy

November 30, 2008

by Stephen Hardy

Given all the attention that PON has received, one could be forgiven for the belief that it is the only way to deploy FTTH. Yet hundreds of networks around the world—and particularly in Europe—use Ethernet switches to deliver high-speed voice, data, and video services to single-family homes and apartment complexes. And while incumbent carriers almost unanimously have favored PON, Ethernet proponents say the demands for higher bandwidth plus the opportunities provided by upgrades to fiber to the node and other DSL-based networks means the door to such customers hasn't closed completely.

The use of Ethernet switches in FTTH networks isn't new, even though the approach hasn't garnered as much publicity as PON. One reason for the comparative lack of attention might be the fact that there isn't an agreement among proponents of the technology about what to call it. "Active Ethernet" has gained some favor, as it differentiates the use of powered Ethernet switches in the outside plant from the passive splitters in a PON. However, not all implementations place the switches in the field; the Ethernet equipment can reside in the central office (CO), with a fiber running directly from the CO to each subscriber. For this reason, Alcatel-Lucent (www.alcatel-lucent.com) favors the use of Active Ethernet to describe an arch

However, not all implementations place the switches in the field; the Ethernet equipment can reside in the central office (CO), with a fiber running directly from the CO to each subscriber. For this reason, Alcatel-Lucent (www.alcatel-lucent.com) favors the use of Active Ethernet to describe an architecture with switches in the field and "point to point" for one with equipment only in the CO. However, PacketFront (www.packetfront.com) doesn't see the need to differentiate and refers to both as Active Ethernet. Cisco (www.cisco.com), the market leader, also doesn't see the need to split hairs; however, it coined its own term, "Ethernet FTTH" .

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