Testing Passive Optical Networks: FTTX Pon Guide

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2AN 5/21/08 11:02 AM Page 3
FTTx PON Guide

Testing Passive Optical Networks
Third
Edition
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This pocket guide provides an introduction to FTTH technology and testing during installation,
activation and troubleshooting of passive optical networks (PONs).
From POTS to PONs

The invention of the telephone in 1876 and the founding of the Bell Telephone Company in 1878 set the
stage for the widespread development of what is now known as the plain old telephone system (POTS).
Two years later, a photophone, as it was called, allowed for the transmission of sound over a beam of
light.
Over the years, various pioneers have made a long series of fascinating discoveries and technological
breakthroughs, including the laser and the singlemode optical fiber, that make it possible to transmit
massive amounts of information over long distances using light. Today, more than 90% of US long-
distance traffic is carried over optical fibers. However, twisted pairs of copper wire are still widely used
for the short-distance connections between the central office (CO) and subscribers.
Fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) technology represents an attractive solution for providing high bandwidth from
the CO to residences and to small- and medium-sized businesses. FTTH is cost-effective because it
uses a passive optical network (PON).
What makes FTTH even more interesting is the increased network reliability and ease of network testing,
measuring and monitoring. These systems follow the same basic principles as standard fiber networks,
enabling the use of much of the same gear for installation and maintenance.
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Guide PON.3-ang: Guide PON.2AN 5/21/08 10:59 AM Page 1
Table of Contents 4.2 Test Setup for ORL and Optical Loss Measurement Link ....25
1. Introduction to FTTx ................................................................................2 4.3 Test 1: ORL Testing ......................................................................................26
1.1 Description................................................................................................................3 4.3.1 Required Equipment ....................................................................27
1.2 Why FTTx is Hot ..................................................................................................5 4.3.2 Procedure................................................................................................28
1.3 Types of PONs ......................................................................................................7 4.4 Test 2: Bidirectional Loss Testing ......................................................29
1.4 Available Services ............................................................................................9 4.4.1 Required Equipment ......................................................................31

4.4.2 Procedure................................................................................................33
2. Network Design and Engineering ..............................10
4.5 Test 3: Link Characterization Using an OTDR........................34
2.1 Typical FTTx Architecture ..........................................................................11
4.5.1 Required Equipment ......................................................................36
2.1.1 Collision Avoidance in Upstream Transmissions..........14
4.5.2 OTDR Settings....................................................................................38
2.2 OSP Equipment ................................................................................................14
4.5.3 Procedure................................................................................................39
2.2.1 Description ............................................................................................14
5. Service Activation Testing ........................................................42
2.2.2 Splitters ....................................................................................................16
5.1 OLT (Initial Service Activation Only) ................................................43
2.3 Active Equipment ............................................................................................17
5.2 Optical Network Terminals (ONT)......................................................43
3. PON OSP Installation ......................................................................18
6. Network Troubleshooting ..........................................................47
3.1 Fiber ..........................................................................................................................19
3.2 Splitters, Patch Panels and Fiber-Management Systems........20 7. Abbreviations and Acronyms ..............................................54
3.3 Splices and Enclosures ..............................................................................20 8. List of ITU-T PON Recommendations ..................58
3.4 Drop Terminals ..................................................................................................20 9. Appendix ..................................................................................................................61
4. PON Installation Testing ..............................................................21 Acknowledgements ..............................................................................65
4.1 Performing Tests ..............................................................................................24
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1. Introduction to FTTx
1. Introduction to FTTx
1.1 Description
Singlemode optical fiber, with its almost unlimited bandwidth, is now the transport medium of choice in long-haul and
metropolitan networks. The use of fiber-optic cable rather than copper cable significantly reduces equipment and
maintenance costs, while dramatically increasing quality of service (QoS) and now more than ever, many corporate
clients have access to point-to-point (P2P) fiber-optic services.
Fiber-optic cables are now deployed in the last mile, the segment of the network that extends from the central office
(CO) to the subscriber. Since this segment has typically been copper-based, the high-speed services available to
residential clients and small businesses have been limited to generic digital subscriber lines (xDSL) and hybrid fiber
coaxial transmissions (HFC). The main alternative—wireless transmission with direct broadcast service (DBS)—requires
an antenna and a transceiver. Therefore, copper- and wireless-based transport presents the following shortcomings:
• Limited bandwidth in a context where there is an explosive growth in demand for more bandwidth and higher-speed
services over longer reaches
• Different media and equipment requiring extensive maintenance
Although fiber-optic cables overcome all of these limitations, one of the obstacles to providing fiber-optic services
directly to residences and small businesses has been the high cost of connecting each subscriber to the CO. A high
number of P2P connections would require numerous active components and a great deal of fiber-optic cables and
therefore, would have prohibitive installation and maintenance costs. An alternative presently being considered is
deployment of an entirely passive point-to-multipoint (P2MP) topology up to the building, while potentially keeping
copper and wireless premises networks or even providing the fiber up to the subscribers.

The FTTx (fiber-to-the-building, fiber-to-the-

home, fiber-to-the-node, fiber-to-the-premises,
ONT
etc.) architecture offers an attractive solution.
With FTTx, a P2MP passive optical network ONT
ONT
ONT
(PON) enables several customers to share the
Residential
same connection, without any active Splitter
WDM
components (i.e., components that generate or Coupler
OLT Splitter
ONT
transform light through optical-electrical- WDM
Coupler
OLT WDM Splitter

optical conversion) between the CO and Coupler
Splitter
ONT
OLT
customer premises. A feeder fiber F1 is Splitter
brought from an optical line terminal (OLT) in Optical

Video ONT ONT
the CO to a fiber distribution hub (FDH) near Transmitter
Splitter
ONT
a group of premises (see Figure 1-1). In the

ONT
FDH, a passive optical splitter is used to ONT
ONT
Splitter
typically connect a number of F2 FD fibers to
the same feeder fiber. Then, each customer Figure 1-1. Providing triple-play services over a high-bandwidth passive optical network
premises is provided with an optical network
terminal (ONT) connected on one side to the F2 and on the other side to the premises network. This P2P architecture
dramatically reduces costs of network installation, management and maintenance.
The OLT provides voice and data downstream transmission using a 1490 nm wavelength band, while the ONT provides
upstream transmission with a 1310 nm wavelength band, allowing non-interfering bidirectional transmission on the
same fiber. In addition, the OLT may be connected to one branch of a 2 x 1 wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM)
coupler, while the second branch is connected to a video transmission system. The video is provided downstream only,
usually in a 1550 nm wavelength band; once over, the video signal, if it is available, can then be transmitted over the
same 1490 nm band as for voice and data.
4 FTTx PON Guide EXFO www.EXFO.com

Variance of the architecture consists of connecting a number of F2s to a drop terminal and then to an F3 drop fiber to
the premises. Various shared bandwidths will be provided, depending on customer requirements. So far, typical
symmetric or asymmetric rates of 155 Mbit/s, 622 Mbit/s, 1.5 Gbit/s and 2.5 Gbit/s have been planned. The protocol
of choice is based on the asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) and is typically called Ethernet for EPON; ATM-PON for
BPON; ATM and GEM (TDM and Ethernet) for GPON upstream; ATM, GEM (TDM and Ethernet) and ATM/GEM for
GPON downstream.
There are many variations of the FTTx architecture
(see Figure 1-2), including:
FTTC WDM ONT
• Fiber-to-the-cabinet (FTTCab)
Coupler ONT
• Fiber-to-the-curb (FTTC)
• Fiber-to-the-home (FTTH)
OLT
FTTH
• Fiber-to-the-node (FTTN)
ONT
ONT
• Fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP)
= Fiber
• Fiber-to-the-office (FTTO)
= Copper
• Fiber-to-the-user (FTTU)
Figure 1-2. Typical FTTx network
• Etc.

1.2 Why FTTx is Hot

In 1995, British Telecom, Bell South, Bell Canada, NTT and five other international telecommunications companies met
to form the Full-Service Access Network (FSAN), which was founded to facilitate the development of suitable access-
network-equipment system specifications.
The United States legislature adopted the Telecommunications Act of 1996 to promote and reduce regulation in order
to secure lower prices and higher-quality services for American telecommunications consumers and to encourage the
rapid deployment of new telecommunications technology.
The International Telecommunications Union (ITU-T) turned FSAN specifications into recommendations. The FSAN
specification for ATM-based PONs became an international standard in 1998 and was adopted by the ITU as
recommendation G.983.1.
In 2001, the FTTH Council was formed to promote FTTH in North America and to advise the US legislature; this
resulted in the Broadband Internet Access Act of 2001, which provides tax incentives to companies that invest in next-
generation broadband equipment.
In 2003, the US Federal Communication Commission (FCC) removed unbundling requirements on newly deployed
networks, such as FTTx (unbundling regional Bell-operating companies’ (RBOCs) obligation to allow competitive local
exchange carriers (CLECs) to use their network), making the technology more attractive to major carriers. This means
that RBOCs can invest in last-mile fiber network—without having to share it with competitors, providing a major
incentive toward the deployment of FTTx networks. Some predict a US$1 billion market for FTTx networks, for RBOCs
alone.

As a result of these developments, interest in FTTx has spurred:

• FTTx offers the high-bandwidth capability of optical fibers and a wide diversity of services (e.g., data, POTS and video)
at a low cost since a number of end-users can share bandwidth on a single fiber and also that all outside plant
equipment is passive
• New standards such as those established by the ITU-T, the IEC and the Institute of Electronic and Electrical
Engineers (IEEE) have greatly increased the design commonality, rehabitation, survivability and security of PONs,
opening the opportunity for economies of scale and lower costs that previously were not conceivable
• FTTx can now be offered by many different types of carriers:
— Incumbent local exchange carriers (ILECs) and regional Bell-operating companies (RBOCs)
— Rural local exchange carriers (RLECs)
— Competitive local exchange carriers (CLECs)
— Utility companies
— Municipalities
— Etc.
In addition, many countries in Asia and Europe are presently deploying and testing PONs.

1.3 Types of PONs

As shown in Table 1-1, there are three different technologies available for PON P2MP architectures (preferred
characteristics):
Type BPON (Broadband PON) GPON (Gigabit-Capable PON) EPON (Ethernet PON)
Protocol ATM ATM, TDM, Ethernet and GEM1 Ethernet + FEC2
Standard ITU-T G.983 series ITU-T G.984 series IEEE 802.3ah
Architecture Symmetric: FTTCab/B/C/H Symmetric: FTTCab/C/H/B for multidwelling 1000BASE-PX10
Asymmetric: FTTCab/B/C units (MDU); FTTB for business 1000BASE-PX20
Services Voice/data/video/additional digital Voice/data, content broadcast, e-mailing, Triple play
services (ADS) future services file exchange, distant learning, telemedicine,
on-line gaming, etc.: symmetric
FTTCab/C/H/B-MDU/business
Digital broadcast services, video-on-demand
file download, etc.: Asymmetric
FTTCab/C/H/B-MDU, voice:
FTTcab/C/H/B-MDU/business, private line:
FTTB-business xDSL: FTTCab/C
Fiber type ITU-T G.652 (single fiber) ITU-T G.652 (single fiber) ITU-T G.652 (single fiber)
Maximum physical 20 km 10 km (Fabry-Perot laser diodes for 1000BASE-PX10: 10 km
distance (OLT-ONT) 1244.16 Mbit/s and higher) 1000BASE-PX20: 20 km
20 km (with different fiber types,
for further study)
60 km with optical reach extension
Split Ratio Up to 32 Up to 64 Up to16
Up to 128 (considered) Up to 32
Table 1-1. Available PON architectures

Type BPON (Broadband PON) GPON (Gigabit-Capable PON) EPON (Ethernet PON)
Wavelength band Upstream: 1260-1360 nm Downstream: 1480-1500 nm 1000BASE-PX10: downstream:
Upstream and/or downstream: Upstream: 1260-1360 nm 1490 nm + PIN Rx
Intermediate wavelength band: Possibility of using shorter Upstream: 1300 nm
1360-1480 nm (for future use) C-band wavelengths downstream (low-cost FP optics and PIN Rx)
1500 nm wavelength band¸ and 1550 nm upstream 1000BASE-PX20:
Basic band: 1480-1500 nm Downstream: 1490 nm + APD Rx
(Downstream) Enhancement band: Upstream: 1300 nm
(1) 1539-1565 nm (ADS) (DFB optics + PIN Rx)
(2) 1550-1560 (video distribution service)
Future L band: wavelengths not
yet defined (for future use)
Data rate(s) Symmetric: 155.52/622.08 Mbit/s Symmetric: 1244.16/2488.32 Mbit/s Symmetric: 1.25 (nominal 1) Gbit/s
Asymmetric: Asymmetric:
Downstream: 622.08 Mbit/s Downstream: 1244.16/2488.32 Mbit/s
Upstream: 155.52 Mbit/s Upstream: 155.2/622.08/1244.16 Mbit/s
Possible downstream extension
to 1244.16 Mbit/s
Table 1-1. Available PON architectures (continued) CO
Splitter 1 x N
1.4 Available Services
ONT
Figure 1-3 shows the wavelengths
and services used in an FTTx network. OLT WDM
Coupler
Optical ONT
Video EDFA
Transmitter 1490 nm Voice and data
1550 nm Overlaid analog RF video
(may not be provided)
1310 nm Voice and data
Figure 1-3. Wavelengths and services in an FTTx network

2. Network Design and Engineering

2. Network Design and Engineering

2.1 Typical FTTx Architecture
Figure 2-1 illustrates the general CO
1490/1550 nm
architecture of a typical FTTx PSTN Residence
1310 nm
network. At the CO, also referred to 1
.
as the head-end, the public- .
. ONT
Class 5 Switch .
switched telephone network .
.
.
T1-DS-3 TDM .
(PSTN) and Internet services are Internet
WDM .
.
. POTS
Coupler .
interfaced with the optical OC-3/OC-12
OLT
Splitter .
. Twisted-pair
.
.
distribution network (ODN) via .
.
ATM/Ethernet
the optical line terminal (OLT). 1P Switch 32 ONT 10/100-Base-T
Ethernet
The downstream 1490 nm and Data
Video Digital EDFA
upstream 1310 nm wavelengths storage Video
are used to transmit data and voice. VOD

Server RF Modulators
Optical Setup
Analog RF video services are Video box
Transmitter Coax TV
cable broadcast
converted to optical format at the Optical
Video
1550 nm wavelength by the optical RF Modulators
Analog
Digital
Video
video transmitter. The 1550 nm Local TV Satellite RF Modulators
and 1490 nm wavelengths are Broadcast
Signals
TV Signals
combined by the WDM coupler and
transmitted downstream together. Figure 2-1. FTTx general architecture
At present, there are no standards
published for upstream video
transmission. IPTV is being tested
and would be transmitted over
1490 nm
In summary, the three wavelengths (1310, CO

FDH
1490 and 1550 nm) carry different
information simultaneously and in various ..
ONT
directions over the same fiber. OLT .

WDM 1x32 ...
Coupler ..
The F1 feeder cable carries the optical .
Optical
signals between the CO and the splitter, Video Splitter ONT
Transmitter
which enables a number of ONTs to be
connected to the same feeder fiber. An ONT
Figure 2-2. Single splitter FTTx network
is required for each subscriber and provides
connections for the different services (voice, Neighborhood FDH
data and video). Since one FTTx network
typically provides service to up to 32 .. ONT
subscribers, more than 64 with GPON), many CO ..

FDH 1x8 ..
such networks, originating from the same CO, ..
.
are usually required in order to serve a ..
..
OLT .. ONT
community. WDM 1x4 .. ..
Coupler .. ..
. ..
There are different architectures for Optical
Video Splitter ONT
connecting subscribers to the PON. The Transmitter
..
..
simplest uses a single splitter (see Figure 2-2), 1x8 ..
..
but multiple splitters can also be used (see .
Figure 2-3). ONT
Figure 2-3. FTTx network with multiple splitters

ONU1
ONU2
VDSL
FTTC
ONU3 VDSL
OLT OLT CO ONU
ONU4
FTTB
ONU5 ONT
ONU1 ONU5 Splitter
OLT
PON VDSL
ONU
ONU2 ONU4
FTTH
ONT
ONU2 ONU4
VDSL
FTTC
ONU3
OLT ONU
Splitter
ONU1 ONU3 ONU5

FTTH ONT
Figure 2-4. PON topologies Figure 2-5. FTTH, FTTB and FTTC
In addition, as shown in Figure 2-4, other topologies such as the star, ring and bus topologies also exist; even protection
is anticipated with different strategies.
In some cases, it may not be necessary to bring the fiber directly to every subscriber. In this case, the fiber from the
splitter is brought to an ONT, and short copper-based links (typically VDSL, which provides sufficient bandwidth for
triple-play services over short distances) are used for the final connection (see Figure 2-5); this is also known as Fiber-
to-the-Building (FTTB). A single PON can use a combination of FTTH, FTTB and other types of connections.
WDM couplers are used to multiplex the downstream voice/data signal at 1490 nm with the downstream RF video
signal at 1550 nm and the upstream voice/data signal at 1310 nm.

2.1.1 Collision Avoidance in Upstream Transmissions

In the case of the upstream direction (i.e., toward the OLT) of a P2MP PON, collisions of data must be prevented from
different ONT signals arriving at the splitter at the same time; therefore, time-division multiple access (TDMA) is used.
TDMA can send burst or delayed data from each ONT back to the OLT at a specific time (timeslot). Each ONT
transmission timeslot is granted by the OLT so that the packets from various ONTs do not collide with each other.
2.2 OSP Equipment

2.2.1 Description
Outside plant (OSP) equipment consists of gear and components located between the OLT and the customer premises
(ONT); this includes both optical and non-optical components of the network. The optical components make up the
optical distribution network (ODN) and include splices, connectors, splitters, WDM couplers, fiber-optic cables, patch
cords and possibly drop terminals with drop cables. The non-optical components include pedestals, cabinets, patch
panels, splice closures and miscellaneous hardware (see Figure 2-6).
CO FDH ONT
Drop Terminal
Splitter
1XN Distribution Fiber Drop
Voice WDM ONT
Data Coupler
OLT
ONT
Optical
Video EDFA
Transmitter
Patch Panel Patch Panel Drop Terminal
ONT
Figure 2-6. OSP equipment for ONU installed outside premises

OSP equipment includes the following:

1260 1360 1460 1675 • Fiber-optic cables: the feeder cables form the segment between
O E U the CO and the first splitter; distribution fibers link the splitter to
the drop terminals (if used) near the subscribers and drop cables
(also if used) connect the individual ONTs to the drop terminal
Note: On account of Rayleigh scattering, macrobending,
microbending, etc., fiber-optic cables introduce signal loss
(attenuation) that is proportional to their length. Figure 2-7
shows the attenuation in a typical fiber.
• Fiber distribution hub(s) include:
- Cabinets, pedestals, splice enclosures (aerial or buried)
O = Original band S = Short band L = Long band
E = Extended band C = Conventional band U = Ultra-long band - Splitter(s) (an important component; see section 2.2.2)
Note = Low water-peak fiber - Patch panel(s)
- Fiber-management elements
Figure 2-7. Spectral attenuation
• Drop terminals
• Connectors: most often, but not exclusively, SC/APC is used
(8° slope on ferrule reduces reflections by more than 60 dB,
typical loss ≤ 0.5 dB)

2.2.2 Splitters
Number of Ports Splitter Loss (dB)
The bidirectional optical branching device used in the P2MP PON is called an (excluding connectors
optical power splitter or simply a splitter, which has one input from the F1 port and excess
and multiple output ports. Splitters are passive because they require no external splitter loss)
energy source other than the incident light beam. They are broadband and only 2 3
add loss, mostly due to the fact that they divide the input (downstream) power.
4 6
This loss, called splitter loss or splitting ratio, is usually expressed in dB and
depends mainly on the number of output ports, as shown in Table 2-1. For 8 9
instance, the input (downstream) optical signal is divided equally in cascade or 16 12
branches; for instance a 1x2 splitter has only two branches or one split that 32 15
bares a 3 dB loss (50% light in each leg); in a 1x4 splitter another two branches
64 18
will be added to each leg of the original 1x2 split this time adding another 3 dB
for a total of 6 dB loss; in a 1x8 splitter two more branches or 1x2 split will be Table 2-1. Splitter loss
added to each leg of the original 1x4 split, again adding another 3 dB for a total
of 9 dB loss. A 1x16 splitter will then bare a 12 dB, and a 1x32 splitter will have a minimum of 15 dB loss, not counting any
additional loss due to connections and imperfections (typically 1dB is added to the original splitting loss) therefore, a 1x32
splitter will have a typical 16 dB loss.
PON uses an equal part among the output ports to F2, allowing multiple users to share a single optical fiber and consequently
a shared bandwidth. In the upstream direction, optical signals are combined from a number of ONTs into the single fiber F1.
It should be noted that, contrary to what one might expect, the splitter adds approximately the same loss even for light traveling
in the upstream direction.
There may be one splitter or several cascaded splitters in an FTTx network, depending on the network topology. ITU-T
Recommendations G.983 currently enables split ratios up to 32, while Recommendations G.984 extends the ratio up to 64.
Regardless of the topology, the splitter must accommodate the allowed optical-loss budget.

Splitters can be packaged in different shapes and sizes, depending on the basic technology used. The most common
types are the planar waveguide (typically for high split ratios) and the fused-biconic taper (FBT) fiber (typically for low
counts). Both types are manufactured for mounting in closure tray assemblies. Figures 2-8 and 2-9 illustrate the two
technologies.
PON Passive Optical Components PON Passive Optical Components

Splitter Technology Splitter Technology
Planar Waveguide
Core Fused Biconic Taper (FBT) Fiber
Cladding
Si Substrate
Input 2 Fused Biconic Taper Output
Mask
Core
PLC = Planar Lightwave Circuit
Cladding
Si Substrate
b = kn
Optical circuit on a substrate made using 3
Core
Cladding tools and techniques based on CVD or Icon 1
Si Substrate
Exchange based on semiconductor industry
Cladding
Core
Cladding
Si Substrate
Figure 2-8. Planar waveguide splitter Figure 2-9. FBT splitter
2.3 Active Equipment

The active equipment includes the following:
• The OLT (voice/data transmitter/receiver), located at the CO
• Video equipment (transmitter) and an erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA), which is used to amplify the analog RF
video overload signal before transmission through the WDM coupler
• The ONT (its electrical power supply and battery backup), located at the customer premises

3. PON OSP Installation

3. PON OSP Installation

Installation of outside plant equipment in an FTTx network can be carried out in many ways and each installation may
be different, depending on such factors as the distance from the CO, residential density and distribution urbanism, to
name a few. Fiber-optic cables can be installed using the most appropriate aerial- or underground-installation
techniques. The placement of splitters and other passive components and the types of cabinets used, depend on
geographical factors and on the PON topology.
3.1 Fiber
Fiber-optic cable installation is one of the most costly elements in PON deployment. Several methods are available, and
the choice of method depends on various factors, including cost, right-of-way, local codes, aesthetics, etc., and whether the
installation is being performed in a new premises development (Greenfield installation) or in an existing development over
existing routes (overlay/overbuild). Three basic cable-installation methods are available:
• The direct burial method places the cable underground in direct contact with the soil; this is done by trenching,
plowing or boring.
• A duct installation in which the optical cable is placed inside an underground duct network. Although the initial duct
installation is more expensive than a direct burial installation, the use of ducts makes it much easier to add or remove
cables.
• Aerial installations comprise the placement of the cable on poles or towers above the ground. This type of installation,
commonly used for overbuilding, is usually more affordable than underground installation and does not require heavy
machinery. The optical cable can be lashed to a supporting messenger cable or self-supporting optical cables can
be used.
For densely populated areas with particular right-of-way challenges, several alternative methods are available such as
installing the cable in grooves cut into the pavement or inside drainpipes, sewer pipes and natural gas pipelines. There
are three types of cables: feeder F1, distribution F2 and drop F3 (optional).

3.2 Splitters, Patch Panels and Fiber-Management Systems

Splitters and patch panels are usually installed in cabinets mounted on pedestals or fixed on posts, also called “fiber
distribution hubs” (FDH). The number, type and placement of the splitters depend on the topology of the network and
the number of fibers in the F1 feeder cable (see OSP Equipment, Figure 2-6).
3.3 Splices and Enclosures

Splices can be mechanical or fused. Mechanical splices are the least expensive but have higher insertion loss and
backreflections than fused splices, which have very low loss (0.02 dB) and almost no backreflection but typically require
expensive and extensive fusion-splicing equipment and a well-trained technician. The number of splices depends on
the cable section lengths used (typical section lengths are ≤ 2 km, 4 km and 6 km). The shorter the length, the easier
the maintenance, but the whole cable assembly requires more splices, more time and costs much more than longer
lengths, which in turn are difficult to maintain. Note that splices are protected from the environment by splice closures.
3.4 Drop Terminals

Drop terminals are typically used for easing service connection and distribution and if used can be aerial, underground
or located in apartment buildings, depending on the installation. Cable drops between splitter and premises are
sometimes pre-connectorized and can be buried or aerial-mounted. They are usually short in length (≤ 30 m).

4. PON Installation Testing

4. PON Installation Testing

The purpose of any fiber-optic network is to perform high-speed, error-
free data transmission. Adequate testing during network installation
guarantees that products meet specifications, plus it minimizes costly
and time-consuming troubleshooting efforts by locating dirty/damaged
connectors, questionable splices and other faulty components before
they disrupt service.
One of the most important factors in ensuring proper transmission is
controlling the power losses in the network against the link-loss
budget specifications from the ITU-T Recommendation and IEEE
standard, which is done by establishing a total end-to-end loss budget
with sufficient margin, while reducing backreflections to a minimum.
This is particularly true for high-power analog RF video signals from Figure 4-1. Adequate loss and backreflection testing
extremely narrowband lasers, since strong backreflections degrade the is important
quality of the video transmission.
Adequate loss and backreflection testing is important to ensure that at each transmission wavelength:
• End-to-end loss and backreflection meet the specifications
• Upon questionable results, each segment meets or exceeds the requirements
Note: The ratio of the output power to the input power of a device is called the “attenuation” and has a positive value
because the loss is increasing. When a device is inserted in an assembly, the attenuation is called the
“insertion loss” and has a negative value because the performance is decreased.
Due to the high power levels involved, it is especially important that all connectors be properly cleaned and inspected—
meeting loss budget and specifications.

As singlemode fibers have very small cores, typically 9 micrometers in diameter, a single particle of dust or dirt can
obstruct the transmission area; therefore, when making connections, observe the following guidelines:
• Never allow unmated connectors to touch any surface and never touch a connector ferrule for any reason other than cleaning
• First inspect the connector end-face, then clean and inspect each connector again using a fiberscope or a videoscope
(which is safer and more accurate) prior to mating—even if there was only a temporary disconnection. Clean and
inspect test equipment connectors every time the instrument is used and use a fiberscope or videoscope after cleaning
• Use of an appropriate cleaning method with tape, cleaning kit, dry-air blower, surface-cleaning pad or optical-quality
fabric cleaner is recommended. Pure alcohol specially for cleaning fiber optics can also be used
• Keep unused connector ports capped and all unused caps in a small resealable plastic bag
Note that number of installations use APC connectors, especially when high-powered overload analog RF video is used,
and since they are angled, special care should be taken when inspecting, cleaning and connecting these connectors.
Never connect an APC connector to a PC or UPC connector.
WARNING!
Never look directly into a live fiber with the naked eye. Always use protective gear to inspect cable ends and
connectors or use videoscope.
Carefully follow all safety procedures listed in each of the test instrument’s user guide.
Never look directly into fibers, connectors or equipment apertures, unless you are absolutely sure that the
light source has been powered off.
When using a fiberscope, always be absolutely sure that the light source has been powered off. If possible,
use a videoscope to inspect fiber ends and connectors.
Do not power up any laser-transmitter equipment until you are certain that all work has been completed on the
transmission system and that all cabled fibers are properly cleaned and connected.
4.1 Performing Tests

The four main optical tests to be performed during network installation are:
• Unidirectional cable-section attenuation before splicing
• Bidirectional optical return loss (ORL) measurement
• Bidirectional end-to-end attenuation measurement
• Bidirectional end-to-end link characterization
These tests are described in detail further. Each part describes the test setup
and the test installation.
Useful test instruments include an ORL meter, optical loss test set (OLTS) or Figure 4-2. EXFO’s cleaning kit
a combination of both, in addition to an optical time-domain reflectometer
(OTDR).
Ideally, the PON should be tested after each segment is installed. Therefore,
once each section of the cabled fiber is installed, OTDR tests should be
performed. After installing a splitter, end-to-end tests should be performed on
the feeder fiber F1 between each splitter output port and the output port of
the OLT. When the drop terminals have been installed, tests should be
performed between each drop terminal output port and the patch panel of
the fiber distribution hub (distribution fiber F2). This test can also be carried
out between the drop terminal port and the patch panel of the OLT. This is
performed when the output of the splitter is not connectorized but spliced
directly to the distribution fiber. Finally, when the drop cable is installed, the
Figure 4-3. Fiber inspection probe (FIP-400) used
link can be tested between the drop cable ONU connector and the OLT with the FTB-400 platform
output port.

4.2 Test Setup for ORL and Optical Loss Measurement Link
Since communication over the fiber is bidirectional, the ORL must be measured in
both directions. Using an ORL meter or compatible OLTS at each end of the link,
the ORL should be measured first in one direction, then in the opposite direction.
Modern OLTS units can now be used for measuring both ORL and optical loss at
the same time.
The optical-loss test requires a sequence of two measurements. Two OLTS units
are first referenced together using their individual light sources. Then, each OLTS
sends a calibrated power value from its light source over the section under test to
the other OLTS, which measures the received power and calculates the loss.
ITU-T recommendations G.983 and G.984 series allow a maximum ORL of 32 dB
for a link. IEEE 802.3ah allows a minimum of 20 dB and a maximum of 15 dB for
EPON. Note: Never connect an APC connector to a PC or UPC connector.
Table 4-1 shows a typical ORL value for different types of connectors.
Note: Be careful not to confuse the acronyms OLTS (optical loss test set) and
OLT (optical line terminal).
Connector Type Typical ORL (dB)

UPC 50-55
Figure 4-4. EXFO’s FOT-930 MaxTester II,
a multifunction handheld ORL/OLTS. APC 65-70
Table 4-1. Typical connector ORLs
Note: A larger value indicates less reflection and
is therefore better

4.3 Test 1: ORL Testing

ORL is defined as the ratio of reflected power to incident power and is measured at the input of a device under test
(DUT). ORL represents the sum of all the reflections through all the optical interfaces of the DUT; it is given in dB units
and is a positive number. Reflectance, on the other hand, is a negative number and is defined as the reflection from a
single optical interface, such as a transition from a fiber end (glass) to air.
Link ORL is made up of Rayleigh backscattering from the fiber core and the reflectance from all the interfaces found
along the link. ORL can be a problem in digital high-speed transmission systems but is particularly critical for analog
transmission, such as the 1550 nm CATV signals possibly used in FTTx systems (e.g., analog RF video in a PON). While
Rayleigh backscattering is intrinsic to the fiber and can not be completely eliminated, reflectance is caused by different
network elements (mainly connectors and components) with air/glass or glass/glass interfaces and can always be
improved by special care or better designs. To optimize transmission quality, backreflection effects (e.g., light-source
signal interference or output power instability) must be kept to a minimum. Therefore, attention must be focused on
ensuring quality network connections through highly accurate ORL measurements.
The main effects of ORL include the following:
• Strong fluctuations in the laser output power
• Interference at the receiver end
• Lower carrier-to-noise ratio in analog systems, leading to distortions on video signals
• Higher bit error rate (BER) in digital systems
• Possible permanent damage to the laser if not protected

4.3.1 Required Equipment

Figure 4-5 shows a test setup for measuring the ORL and the optical loss. ORL is measured using an ORL meter (or
an ORL test set). The ORL meter includes a source and an optical power meter (OPM) to measure reflected power.
Some OLTS units can perform this test, making a dedicated ORL meter unnecessary—either one can provide a total
end-to-end ORL of the system.
CO FDH
Drop
Splitter Terminal
Voice WDM ONT
Data Coupler
OLT
Optical
Video EDFA
Transmitter
Patch Panel Patch Panel Drop
Terminal
ONT
Figure 4-5. Testing the bidirectional ORL from the CO to the drop terminal

4.3.2 Procedure
The ORL meter should be calibrated and referenced. Refer to the user guide supplied with the instrument for complete
information.
Before connecting or splicing cables, measure the ORL for each splitter branch separately. Perform the ORL test in both
directions. Check for uniformity at the different splitter ports. Once all connections are made, measure end-to-end ORL.
Note: The higher the ORL reading, the better.
CO FDH
Drop
Splitter Terminal
Voice WDM ONT
Data Coupler
OLT
Optical
Video EDFA
Transmitter
Terminal
ONT
Figure 4-6. Testing the ORL from the CO to the drop terminal

Figure 4-7. Good ORL values Figure 4-8. Poor ORL values (based on a 32 dB
specificaion)
4.4 Test 2: Bidirectional Loss Testing
Optical loss is defined as the difference in power level between the transmitting source and the receiving power meter.
The total optical system/link loss is the sum of the insertion loss (IL) of the OLT connector, WDM coupler, splices, fiber
attenuation, splitter, ONT connector and any faulty connector matings. IL is the loss of optical energy resulting from the
insertion of a component or device in an optical path.
When the network is designed, a loss budget is established in accordance with standard values. This is a detailed
analysis to ensure that the receiver will receive the level of power required for error-free transmission. The loss budget
takes into account the transmitter power and the receiver sensitivity, as well as the expected loss of every optical
component in the network. The loss budget requirement for the PON, based on ITU-T is shown in Table 4-4:

Attenuation2 (dB)
ORL (dB) IEEE802.3ah
Class A Class B Class B+ Class C
1000BASE-PX
ITU-T Rec.
10 km 20 km
Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max.
Min. Max. Min. Max.
GPON >32 5 20 10 25 15 30 G.984.2
G.983.1
See Table 4-2
BPON 32 5 20 10 25 15 30 G.9821
G.983.3
D 5 19.5 10 23.5
EPON 20 15
U 20 20 24 24
Table 4-2. PON loss budget table
BPON Down Up
Standards
Class B+ Min. Max. Min. Max.
Bit rate (Mbit/s) 622.08 155.52

Video overlay (dB) 9 27 13 29 G.983 series
IPTV (dB) 10 28 10 28
Table 4-3. Class B+ loss budget table

The splitters in a PON cause an inherent loss because the input power is divided between several outputs. Splitter loss
depends on the split ratio and is approximately 3 dB for a 1:2 splitter, increasing by 3 dB each time the number of
outputs is doubled. A 1:32 splitter has a splitter loss of at least 15 dB. This loss is seen for both downstream and
upstream signals. Splices or connectors at the splitter ports create an additional loss.
An example of a PON loss budget is shown in Table 4-4. In this example, no loss from dispersion or any non-linear
effects are taken into account (only 1 dB loss would be expected for very high-bit-rate systems at 1550/1490 nm).
Based on the worst-case total loss of 25 dB (at 1310 nm), this system would meet a class B loss budget but with no
margin. The worst loss comes from the splitter (68%), and its loss would need to be improved, otherwise class C
transmission would be required to guarantee the loss margin.
Loss (dB) Number/Length Total Loss (dB) 4.4.1 Required Equipment

Splitter (1:32) ~ 16-17 1 17 Loss can be measured using a separate
WDM coupler (1:2) ~ 0.7-1.0 1 1 source and an optical power meter (OPM).
Splice (fused) ~ 0.02-0.05 4 0.2 A basic OLTS consists of a light source
Connector (APC) ~ 0.2 2 0.4 and an OPM, while an advanced OLTS
Fiber G.652C ~ 0.35/km 18.2 km 6.4
consists of a light source and OPM
Worst case: 1310 nm
Total loss (dB)
combined in one unit and is particularly
1310 nm 25.0 useful for bidirectional testing, automatic
Minimum budget Maximim of referencing and results analysis. Some of
loss class class B the more advanced OLTS units can
Table 4-4. A typical loss budget scenario (worst case: 18.2 km maximum) perform automatic bidirectional end-to-
end loss and ORL tests together, also
providing an estimate of the link distance
and chromatic dispersion.

The following considerations are important when selecting an OLTS for PON applications:
• Some OLTS models are automated—automated testing reduces testing time and risk of operator errors
• A high dynamic range allows for testing of very lossy components, such as the splitter and/or increasing the distance
coverage
• An integrated talk-set facilitates bidirectional communication between technicians performing end-to-end tests
• Dual- or triple-wavelength (1310/1490/1550 nm) testing capability is essential for testing PONs based on legacy
fibers showing larger attenuation compared to the more recent vintages. Testing at the three service wavelengths
ensures knowledge of loss budget for each service and is especially critical for meeting video quality requirements.
For further information on choosing and using an OLTS, refer to the following articles from our website
(www.EXFO.com):
• How to Choose an Optical Loss Test Set
http://documents.EXFO.com/appnotes/anote021-ang.pdf
• Accurate Loss Testing Made Easy
http://documents.EXFO.com/appnotes/pnote006-ang.pdf
• Loss Measurement in Fiber-Optic Networks
http://documents.EXFO.com/appnotes/pnote007-ang.pdf

4.4.2 Procedure
To perform automatic loss testing using two OLTS units, four steps are
usually required (refer to the user guide supplied with the instrument for
detailed information):
• Offset nulling (if required by the instruments) compensates for detector
noise and internal offsets—some test units do not require this step
• Test setup (on both instruments) allows for the selection of the
wavelength(s) and other test parameters
• Referencing (on both instruments) is necessary to measure loss
through the fiber only, and not through the test jumpers and
accessories—some units automatically perform this step Figure 4-9. Good link loss results
• Test initialization (on initializing instrument)—some units automatically

perform this step for both instruments
The loopback method of referencing can be used and must be performed
on each OLTS. The loopback reference is performed by connecting a test
jumper at each unit’s source port and looping it back to the same detector
port of the unit. The measured power level at the detector port is stored
as a reference (see Figure 4-11).
Another, more accurate, option is the side-by-side referencing method,
which is performed by connecting the source of unit A to the detector port
of unit B and the source of unit B to the detector port of unit A.
Figure 4-10. Poor link loss results

Once both OLTS units have been referenced, the jumper on each
OLTS is disconnected from the detector port and connected to the
fiber under test (FUT). The test is initiated on one OLTS. The source
of this OLTS sends light through the link. The other OLTS measures
the received power values and communicates this information to the
initiating instrument, which compares the quantity of light received
with the reference measurement. The difference between the two
measurements corresponds to the average link loss.
4.5 Test 3: Link Characterization Using an OTDR

During PON installation, it is important to ensure that each cable Figure 4-11. OLTS loopback referencing
section meets or exceeds the cable specifications. This can best be
accomplished by using an OTDR. Unlike an OLTS, which
characterizes the overall loss of an entire link using two instruments,
an OTDR provides a detailed map of all of the section losses (see
Figure 4-12), allowing users to locate and characterize every Reflection
individual element in the link, including connectors, splices, splitters,
Power (dB)
couplers and faults.
Loss
An OTDR operates by sending a high-power pulse of light down the
fiber and measuring the light reflected back. Every event in the link Slope shows
(i.e., each optical component and optical fault) causes a reflection or fiber attenuation
an optical loss, or both. Fiber ends and fiber breaks as well as
connectors and other components each reflect a small part of the
pulse back to the OTDR. The OTDR uses the time it takes individual Figure 4-12. Cable section mapping from splitter input to
reflections to return to determine the distance of each event. WDM coupler output

Optical fibers uniformly backscatter a small portion of the light over their entire
length. The OTDR measures this backscattered light to determine the
attenuation of the fiber. Sudden reductions in the level of backscattered light
correspond to optical losses due to splices or other events. For instance, the
typical attenuation of the G.652.C fibers can be measured over the ranges of
wavelengths used in the PON, typically:
• 0.33 dB/km at 1310 nm (0.35 dB/km for worst case)
Larger spectral attenuations may be observed in old G.652 fibers.
The faults that can be detected by the OTDR include misalignments and
mismatches, angular faults, dirt on connector ferrules, fiber breaks and Figure 4-13. EXFO’s FTB-7400E OTDR housed
macrobends. Macrobends are unwanted events that are caused when a fiber is in the FTB-200 Compact Platform
bent tighter than its minimum bend radius (such as tie-wrap too tight) and can
easily be detected by comparing the loss at 1310, 1490 and 1550 nm, due to the fact that macrobends have more
significant losses at higher wavelengths (1550 nm) than at lower ones (1310 nm). The best OTDR wavelength available
for macrobending detection is 1625 nm (the longer the wavelength, the better).
Each fiber should be tested from the OLT at the CO to the splitter, as well as from the splitter to the ONTs
(bidirectionally if possible). Several types of events, such as mismatched core sizes, generate different levels (gainers
vs. losses), depending on whether the light comes from one direction or the other. Bidirectional testing provides more
accurate results since the loss values measured in each direction can be averaged.

Another important consideration when using an OTDR is the dead-zone phenomenon. Due to the fact that the detector
in the OTDR is extremely sensitive, it may become saturated by strong reflections, such as from the OTDR output
connector and from the first event (connector) in the network. Often, the longest dead zone occurs at the first
connection (the OTDR bulkhead connector). Since it is impossible to measure loss within a dead zone, loss due to
splices and connectors close to the OTDR launch point can not be determined under ordinary circumstances. However,
the use of a pulse suppressor box (PSB) between the OTDR and the FUT can work around this problem. The PSB
contains a length of fiber-optic cable that allows the first connector, as well as events hidden by the dead zone, to be
included in the link loss measurement.
Loss from the last connector of the FUT can be measured in the same way, by connecting the PSB to the last
connector. The PSB enables the OTDR to compare backscattering levels before and after the event in order to calculate
the connector loss.
4.5.1 Required Equipment
For PON testing, the OTDR should be capable of testing at either
three wavelengths (1310, 1490 and 1550 nm). In many cases,
testing at 1550 nm is considered adequate to cover the 1490 nm
region at the same time. It is generally agreed that the fiber
attenuation at 1490 nm is approximately 0.02 dB greater than at
1550 nm, which for a maximum of 20 km adds 0.4 dB of total
attenuation. This is usually true for very recent vintage fiber (late
’90s and younger), especially for the G.652.C. However, this may be
questionable for older vintage fiber (early ’90s and older) when
G.652.C did not yet exist and when little interest was placed on the
water peak (E-band). Figure 4.14. FTTx PON OTDR trace

For testing long fibers or lossy components, high dynamic range is necessary, whereas when characterizing a discrete
event, a short pulse is often required. These two features contradict each other: a longer pulse will provide a higher
dynamic range, while a shorter pulse will come with a lower peak power, limiting the dynamic range.
The OTDR analysis software must be well-designed to thoroughly locate all possible types of events, such as reflections
caused by connectors, fiber breaks or fiber ends; as well as losses caused by splices or macrobends; in addition to gains
caused by imperfect core alignments or diameter differences (delta variations in mode-field diameter). A good-quality
OTDR should be able to clearly point out all types of events on the trace; to make them easily identifiable to the user
and to list the events in an event table.
It is important to select an option that provides a well-designed, easy-to-use interface and includes features such as
signal averaging, report generation and printing, as well as an automatic mode of operation. Some OTDRs also include
a built-in visual fault locator (VFL).
For further information on using an OTDR, refer to the following articles on our website (www.EXFO.com):
• Bidirectional OTDR Testing: Multimode vs. Singlemode Fibers
• Optimizing OTDR Measurement Parameters
• Fiber-Optic Testing Challenges in Point-to-Multipoint PON Testing

4.5.2 OTDR Settings

Before using an OTDR, it is important to understand the test parameters to be able to test them correctly. Although
many OTDRs have an Auto mode in which the instrument attempts to determine the optimal settings for the link under
test, in some situations, it may be necessary to manually set the parameters in order to obtain the desired results. When
testing at several different wavelengths, the same settings for all wavelengths or different settings for each individual
wavelength can be used. In addition, there are usually options for storing test results in a database and for printing
reports. The main test parameters are described below. Refer to the instrument’s user guide for complete information.
• Distance range: Determines the maximum distance at which the OTDR will detect an event.
• Pulse width: Determines the time width (duration) of the pulse that is sent by the OTDR. A longer pulse travels
further down the fiber and improves the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) but results in less resolution, making it more
difficult to separate closely spaced events. A longer pulse also results in longer dead zones. In contrast, a shorter
pulse width provides higher resolution and shorter dead zones, but less distance range and lower SNR. Generally, it
is preferable to select the shortest possible pulse width, enabling to see everything and then proceed to make further
adjustments for optimization.
When testing downstream in an FTTx network, the optical power of the OTDR pulse must be large enough to go
through the splitter(s) and the dynamic range must be high.
• Acquisition time: Sets the acquisition duration (time period during which test results are averaged). In general,
longer acquisition times produce cleaner traces (especially with long-distance traces) due to the fact that as the
acquisition time increases, more of the noise is averaged out; this averaging increases the SNR and the ability of the
OTDR to detect small and closely spaced events.
When performing a quick test, in order to locate a major fault, such as a break, a short acquisition time should be
used (e.g., 10 s). To fully characterize a link with optimal precision and to make sure the end-to-end loss budget is
respected, a longer acquisition time (45 s to 3 min) is preferable.

• Pass/warning/fail criteria: Some OTDRs can display a message at the end of an analysis to inform the user if one
or more events exceed a preset threshold. Separate warning and fail thresholds can be set for each type of
measurement (i.e., splice loss, connector loss, reflectance, fiber section attenuation, total span loss, total span length,
and ORL). This feature can be used to ensure that each optical component in the link meets its acquired values.
4.5.3 Procedure
During installation, OTDR testing should be performed after installation of each segment of the network. Figures 4-15
and 4-16 show examples of tests performed from the end of the last installed link toward the OLT in the CO.
Bidirectional testing with an OTDR is important because for some events, such as for a splice between two fibers with
a slightly different geometry, the loss found with an OTDR varies for different testing directions. Averaging the losses
from a bidirectional measurement will eliminate the impact of fiber geometry and will provide the true loss values.
It is sometimes useful to test from the CO toward the splitter(s) and all the way to the ONTs. However, when many
distribution fibers are being tested, the reflection of each of the different fibers will be combined and the interpretation
of the trace OTDR will become more difficult and often not possible.
For further information, refer to the following article on our website (www.EXFO.com):
• Fiber-Optic Testing Challenges in Point-to-Multipoint PON Testing

CO FDH
Drop
p
Splitter Terminal
Voice WDM ONT
Data Coupler
OLT
Optical
Video EDFA
Transmitter
p ONT
Terminal
Figure 4-15. Testing from the splitter output to the CO
CO FDH
Drop
Splitter Terminal
Voice WDM ONT
Data Coupler
OLT
Optical
Video EDFA
Transmitter
Patch Panel Patch Panel Drop ONT
Terminal
Figure 4-16. Testing from an ONT or drop terminal to the CO

Figure 4-17. Simplified OTDR trace

5. Service Activation Testing

5. Service Activation Testing

The following tests should be performed when first activating the network or when connecting an ONT.
5.1 OLT (Initial Service Activation Only)

An optical power measurement at the OLT is required to ensure that sufficient power is delivered to the ONTs. This is
only done during the initial activation because it can not be repeated without interrupting service for the entire network
once the network has been connected. To perform this measurement, disconnect the feeder fiber and measure the
power directly at the output of the WDM (combining video and OLT signals). Two methods can be used:
• An OPM measures the total optical power: optical filters can be used to measure the power at each individual
wavelength, one wavelength at a time
• A wavelength-demux PON power meter measures the power of each wavelength simultaneously: power thresholds
can be set in order to provide pass, warning or fail status for each wavelength
After reconnecting the feeder fiber, perform a similar test at the FDH, measuring the power at each splitter output.
5.2 Optical Network Terminals (ONT)

Each time a new ONT is added to the PON, the downstream and upstream optical power at the drop should be
measured. The preferred method is to use a wavelength-demux PON power meter that can be connected as a pass-
through device. Another method is to use an OPM and filters; however, this method does not allow measurement of the
upstream signal, nor pass-through operation.
Figure 5-2 shows a PON power meter connected as a pass-through device between the drop and the ONT. This type of
instrument simultaneously measures the downstream power at 1550 and 1490 nm and the upstream power at 1310 nm.
Unlike an OPM, which measures the average power of an optical signal, the PON power meter detects the power of the
traffic bursts in order to provide accurate measurement.

Bit Rate Class 1490 nm Power (dBm) Standards

(Mbit/s) OLT Tx ONT Rx
Min Max Sens. Over
155.52 A -6 0 -28.5 -8 G.983/G.984 series
B -4 +2 -30 -8
C -2 +4 -33 -11
622.08 A -7 -1 -28 -6 G.983/G.984 series
B -2 +4 -28 -6
C -2 +4 -33 -11
1000 (nominal) -3 +2 -24 EPON: 1000BASE-PX10 100
+2 +7 -24 EPON: 1000BASE-PX20
1244.16 A -4 +1 -25 -4 G.983/G.983 series
B +1 +6 -25 -4
C +5 +9 -26 -4
2488.32 A 0 +4 -21 -1 G.984 series
B +5 +9 -21 -1 DFB+APD
C +3 +7
1 1
-281
-81 DFB/SOA+ PIN
Table 5-1. OLT optical power budget requirements for single-fiber topology Tab
Rx max. power sensitivity is called overload is c
Wh
to
No
Figure 5-1. EXFO’s PPM-350 PON Power Meter

Bit Rate Class 1490 nm Power (dBm) Standards The downstream power at 1550 and
(Mbit/s) OLT Tx ONT Rx 1490 nm must meet the minimum ONT
Min Max Sens. Over receiver sensitivity (depending on the
155.52 A -6 0 -27 -5 G.983/G.984 series PON class). The upstream power should
B -4 +2 -30 -8 correspond to the ONT specifications. If
C -2 +4 -33 -11 the optical power level is insufficient, refer
622.08 A -6 -1 -27 -6 G.983/G.984 series
to Chapter 6 and perform the
B -1 +4 -27 -6
C -1 +4 -32 -11
troubleshooting steps. Perform other
1000 (nominal) -1 +4 -24 EPON: 1000BASE-PX10 troubleshooting steps as necessary to
-1 +4 -27 EPON: 1000BASE-PX20 correct the problem. Similarly, the
1244.16 A -3/-2+2/+3-24/-23 -3/-8 G.983/G.983 series upstream power at 1310 nm must meet
B -2 +3 -28 -7/-13 minimum criteria to be properly detected
C +2 +7 -29 -8/-14 at the OLT. Knowing the worst-case
2488.32 A G.984 series
optical power budget, it is simple to define
B
C
a minimum optical power value that the
1310 nm signal must have at the ONT
Table 5-2. PON optical loss budget requirements for single-fiber topology (Rx max. power sensitivity output.
is called “overload”)
When all problems have been corrected and the measured power level at the drop is sufficient, connect the drop directly
to the ONT.
Note: It is crucial to understand that the 1310 nm signal transmitted upstream by the ONT is, by nature, a burst and
is not continuous. For this reason, the power of the ONT must be detected with the appropriate instrument.
Meter

ONT
CO FDH Drop
ONT
TerminalDrop
Splitter Terminal
1XN Distribution Fiber
Voice WDM
Data
ONT
Coupler
OLT
Optical
Video EDFA
Transmitter
Terminal
ONT
Figure 5-2. PON power meter connected between the drop and the ONT

6. Network Troubleshooting
m
6. Network Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting a PON first involves locating and identifying the source of an optical problem in what may be a complex
optical network topology that includes several splitters, fibers and ONTs. Figure 6-1 shows a multisplitter topology
network with multiple splitters. The numbers indicate the different zones where a problem may be located.
Table 6-1 shows how noting which
ONTs are affected can help locate the Neighborhood FDH
problem. If a break occurs in the cable
between the OLT and a downstream .. ONT
splitter, all ONTs downstream from that CO ..

FDH 1x8 ..
splitter will be affected. However, if a ..
problem such as macrobending or dirty .
..
connectors causes optical power to be .. .. ONT
OLT ..
WDM 1x4 ..
lost somewhere in the network, only a Coupler .. ..
. ..
number of downstream ONTs may be Optical
Video Splitter ONT
affected. Since the attenuation in fiber- Transmitter
..
..
optic cables is proportional to length, 1x8 ..
distant ONTs receive a weaker ..
.
downstream optical signal than closer
ONT
ones. The upstream optical signals
received at the CO from the more Figure 6-1. Troubleshooting zones in a typical FTTx network
distant ONTs are also weaker and the
OLT will detect such decreased
performance.

Problems that may occur in an FTTx network include:

• Optical power level at one or more ONTs does not meet the specified minimum power level
• Loss of signal (no power)
• Increased BER or degraded signal (may be caused by insufficient power)
• Hardware problem with an active component (at ONT or CO)
Since most of the components in the network are passive, a large part of the issues are due to
dirty/damaged/misaligned connectors or breaks/macrobends in the fiber-optical cable. These will affect one,
some or all subscribers on the network, depending on the location of the problem.
Most problems can be located using the following equipment:
• Wavelength-demux PON power meter: This instrument is connected as a pass-through device, allowing
both downstream and upstream traffic to travel unimpeded. It measures the power at each wavelength
simultaneously. It also detects the burst power of the ATM traffic. This meter can be used for
troubleshooting at any point in the network (see Figure 6-2).
• Optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR): A monitoring OTDR provides a graphical trace that enables
to locate and characterize every element in a link, including connectors, splices, splitters, couplers and
faults.

Affected ONTs Possible Locations of Problem

All ONTs or several ONTs (the most distant ones) In the CO (zone 1)
throughout the network Along the feeder fiber (zone 2)
At the main FDH (zone 3)
All ONTs or several ONTs (the most distant ones) At the main FDH (zone 3)
in one branch Along the intermediate cable (zone 4)
At a secondary FDH (zone 5)
One ONT At the last FDH (zone 5)
Along one distribution fiber (zone 6)
At drop terminal, along the drop, or at the ONT (zone 7)
Table 6-1. Locating a problem in a typical FTTx network

The following table shows possible causes and troubleshooting steps for common problems:
Problem Possible Cause Troubleshooting Steps

One ONT is Dirty/damaged connectors or At the end of the drop:
malfunctioning; excessive macrobends after ❑ Measure the optical power
optical power level last splitter ❑ Inspect the connectors
at ONT is low ONT failure At the drop terminal:
❑ Measure the optical power
❑ Inspect the connectors
At the splitter output:
One ONT is not working; Fiber break after last splitter ❑ Measure optical power at ONT to confirm there is no signal
no optical power (in distribution fiber or drop cable) ❑ Measure optical fiber at drop terminal
ONT failure If signal is present: Problem is in drop cable
❑ Test drop cable from ONT or from drop terminal using VFL or OTDR
If signal is not present: Problem is in distribution fiber
❑ Test distribution fiber from drop terminal using OTDR
One ONT is malfunctioning; ONT hardware problem ❑ Refer to ONT manufacturer’s troubleshooting procedure
power level at ONT is OK
Table 6-2. Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Troubleshooting Steps

Some or all ONTs connected Dirty/damaged connectors or At the splitter output:
to one splitter are macrobends before splitter ❑ Measure the optical power
malfunctioning; ❑ Inspect the connectors
power level at ONTs is low Check for macrobends (inside and outside FDH)
At the splitter input:
All ONTs connected to one Fiber break before last splitter ❑ Test feeder fiber (or fiber between splitters in the case of multisplitter
splitter are not working; link) with OTDR from ONT, drop terminal, or splitter
no optical power
All ONTs are not working; Break in feeder fiber or ❑ Test feeder fiber with OTDR from FDH or from CO
no optical power problem at CO ❑ Measure OLT output power
❑ Measure power of video signal before WDM coupler
❑ Measure WDM coupler output power
❑ Check equipment at CO
BER increase Insufficient power at ONT or ❑ Perform steps above as necessary
ONT hardware problem ❑ Refer to ONT manufacturer’s troubleshooting procedure
Intermittent problem ONT hardware problem ❑ Refer to ONT manufacturer’s troubleshooting procedure
Table 6-2. Troubleshooting (continued)

CO FDH ONT
Drop
Splitter Terminal
1XN Distribution Fiber
Voice WDM ONT
Data Coupler
OLT
ONT
Optical
Video EDFA
Transmitter
Terminal
ONT
Figure 6-2. Using a PON power meter for troubleshooting various points in the network

7. Abbreviations and Acronyms

7. Abbreviations and Acronyms

ADS Additional digital service EDFA Erbium-doped fiber amplifier
ADSL Asymmetric digital subscriber line (copper based) EFM Ethernet in the first mile
APC Angled physical contact/angled polished EFMA Ethernet-in-the-first-mile alliance
connector EPON Ethernet-ready passive optical network
APD Avalanche photo diode (detector) FBT Fused biconic taper (fiber coupler/splitter)
ATM Asynchronous transfer mode protocol FCC Federal communications commission (US)
BER Bit error rate (ITU-T uses bit error ratio) FDH Fiber distribution hub
BLEC Building local exchange carrier FEC Forward error correction
BPON Broadband passive optical network FO Fiber-optic
CD Chromatic dispersion FP Fabry-Perot (laser)
CDMA Collision detected multiple access FSAN Full-service access network
CLEC Competitive local exchange carrier FTTB Fiber-to-the-building
CO Central office FTTC Fiber-to-the-curb
CVD Chemical vapor desposition FTTCab Fiber-to-the-cabinet
CWDM Coarse wavelength-division multiplexing FTTH Fiber-to-the-home
DBS Direct broadcast service FTTN Fiber-to-the-node
DFB Distributed-feedback (laser) FTTP Fiber-to-the-premises
DSL Digital subscriber line (copper based) FTTx Fiber-to-the-x, where x = (H)ome, (C)urb,
DSLAM Digital subscriber line access multiplexer (B)uilding, (N)ode, (P)remises, etc.
DUT Device under test FUT Fiber under test
DWDM Dense wavelength-division multiplexing GEM GPON encapsulation mode
GPON Gigabit-capable passive optical network NF Noise figure (noise from an optical amplifier in dB)
HDD Horizontal direct drilling OC Optical carrier (transport rate)
HDSL High-bit-rate digital subscriber line ODN Optical distribution network
(copper based) ODU Optical distribution unit
HDTV High-definition television OLT Optical line terminal/termination
HFC Hybrid fiber coaxial transmissions OLTS Optical loss test set
IEC International electrotechnical commission ONT Optical network terminal/termination
IEEE Institute of electrical and electronic engineers ONU Optical network unit (non-transmitting ONT)
ILEC Incumbent local exchange carrier OPM Optical power meter
IP Internet protocol ORL Optical return loss
IPTV Internet protocol television OSA Optical spectrum analyzer
ITU International telecommunication union OSC Optical service channel
ITU-T International telecommunication union— OSNR Optical signal-to-noise ratio
telecommunications standardization sector OSP Outside plant
wavelength
OTDR Optical time-domain reflectometer
LFD Live fiber detector
P2MP Point-to-multipoint
MAN Metropolitan area network
P2P Point-to-point
MFD Mode-field diameter
PBX Private branch exchange
MLM Multilongitudinal mode (Laser)
PC Polished connector
MM Multimode
PIN Positive-insulator-negative (detector)
MMF Multimode fiber
PLC Planar lightwave (or lightguide) circuit
MWM Multiwavelength meter

PMD Polarization mode dispersion or physical TDMA Time-division multiple access

medium dependent TIA Telecommunications Industry Association
PON Passive optical network Tx Transmitter
POTS Plain old telephone service UPC Ultra-polished connector
PSB Pulse suppressor box VDSL Very-high-speed digital subscriber line
PSTN Public switched telephone network (copper based)
QoS Quality of service VFL Visual fault locator
RBOC Regional Bell operating company VOD Video-on-demand
Rec ITU-T Recommendation VoIP Voice over Internet protocol
RLEC Rural local exchange carrier WDM Wavelength-division multiplexing
RT Remote terminal xDSL Generic digital subscriber line (copper based)
Rx Receiver
SC Supervisory channel or service channel
SDH Synchronous digital hierarchy
SM Singlemode
SMF Singlemode fiber
SNR Signal-to-noise ratio
SONET Synchronous optical network
STM Synchronous transfer mode
(SDH transfer rate)
TDM Time-division multiplexing

8. List of ITU-T PON Recommendations

8. List of ITU-T PON Recommendations

Fiber Recommendations
G.650.1: Definitions and test methods for linear, deterministic attributes of single-mode fibre and cable
G.650.2: Definitions and test methods for statistical and non-linear related attributes of single-mode fiber and ca
G.652: Characteristics of a single-mode optical fibre and cable
G.653: Characteristics of a dispersion-shifted single-mode optical fibre and cable
G.654: Characteristics of a cut-off shifted single-mode optical fibre and cable
G.655: Characteristics of a non-zero dispersion-shifted single-mode optical fibre and cable
G.656: Characteristics of a fibre and cable with non-zero dispersion for wideband optical transport
G.657: Characteristics of a bending loss insensitive single mode optical fibre and cable for the access network
Component and sub-system Recommendations

G.671: Transmission characteristics of optical components and subsystems
PON System and network Recommendations

G.983 series:
G.983.1: Broadband optical access systems based on Passive Optical Networks (PON)
G.983.2: ONT management and control interface specification for B-PON
G.983.3: A broadband optical access system with increased service capability by wavelength allocation
G.983.4: A broadband optical access system with increased service capability using dynamic bandwidth assignment
G.983.5: A broadband optical access system with enhanced survivability

G.984 series
G.984.2: Gigabit-capable Passive Optical Networks (G-PON): Physical Media Dependent (PMD) layer specification
G.984.4: Gigabit-capable Passive Optical Networks (G PON): ONT management and control interface specification
G.984.5: Enhancement band for gigabit capable optical access networks
G.984.6: Gigabit-capable Passive Optical Networks (GPON): Reach extension
G.985: 100 Mbit/s point-to-point Ethernet based optical access system
IEEE 802.3ah—2004: IEEE standard for information technology, telecommunications and information exchange
between systems—local and metropolitan area networks. Specific requirements Part 3: Carrier Sense Multiple Access
with Collision Detection (CSMA/CD) Access Method and Physical Layer Specifications Amendment: Media Access
Control Parameters, Physical Layers and Management Parameters for Subscriber Access Networks

9. Appendix
9. Appendix
PON Classification
1. ONU
1.1 ONU installed inside premises
1.2 ONU installed outside premises
2. Drop terminals/drop cables
2.1 ODN installed using drop terminal and drop cables
2.2 ODN installed without drop terminal and drop cables (F2 directly to ONU)
3. Splitter
3.1 ODN using single splitter with maximum split ratio
3.2 ODN using multistage splitter with various split ratios
4. F1
4.1 F1 with no redundancy
4.2 F1 using redundancy
5. Video
5.1 PON without video distribution
5.2 PON including video distribution
5.2.1 PON with overlaid analog RF video
5.2.2 PON with digital IPTV
6. Monitoring
6.1 PON without optical/physical monitoring
6.2 PON with optical/physical monitoring

Notes

Notes

Acknowledgements
This guide would not have been possible without the enthusiasm and teamwork of EXFO staff, particularly the hard
work and technical expertise of Mr. Benoît Masson, Senior Product Manager, and Dr. André Girard, Senior Member of
Technical Staff, who also plays a prominent role in the following international organizations:
• Member of ITU-T SG15 on Optical and Other Transport Technologies
• International Convenor of IEC SC86B WG7 on Passive Components
• Chairman of Canada IEC TC86 National Committee
• Co-Chair of TIA SC FO-4.3 (Interconnecting Devices and Passive Components)
• Canada Liaison to ANSI IEC Technical Advisory Group
No part of this guide may be reproduced in any form

or by any means without the prior written permission of EXFO.
Printed and bound in Canada
ISBN 1-55342-002-0
Legal Deposit—National Library of Canada 2004
Legal Deposit—National Library of Quebec 2004
© 2008 EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc., Quebec City, Canada. All Rights Reserved.
FTTx PON Guide: Testing Passive Optical Networks, 3rd edition
For details on any of our products and

services, or to download technical and
application notes, visit our website at
www.EXFO.com.
FTTxPG.3AN 08/05

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Cover PON_3: Cover Guide PON.

2AN 5/21/08 11:02 AM Page 3

FTTx PON Guide

From POTS to PONs

1.1 Description................................................................................................................3 4.3.1 Required Equipment ....................................................................27

1.2 Why FTTx is Hot ..................................................................................................5 4.3.2 Procedure................................................................................................28

1.4 Available Services ............................................................................................9 4.4.1 Required Equipment ......................................................................31

www.EXFO.com FTTx PON Guide EXFO 1

www.EXFO.com FTTx PON Guide EXFO 3

The FTTx (fiber-to-the-building, fiber-to-the-

OLT WDM Splitter

brought from an optical line terminal (OLT) in Optical

a group of premises (see Figure 1-1). In the

4 FTTx PON Guide EXFO www.EXFO.com

www.EXFO.com FTTx PON Guide EXFO 5

1.2 Why FTTx is Hot

6 FTTx PON Guide EXFO www.EXFO.com

As a result of these developments, interest in FTTx has spurred:

www.EXFO.com FTTx PON Guide EXFO 7

1.3 Types of PONs

Table 1-1. Available PON architectures

8 FTTx PON Guide EXFO www.EXFO.com

www.EXFO.com FTTx PON Guide EXFO 9

2. Network Design and Engineering

2. Network Design and Engineering

are used to transmit data and voice. VOD

In summary, the three wavelengths (1310, CO

directions over the same fiber. OLT .

subscribers, more than 64 with GPON), many CO ..

Figure 2-3. FTTx network with multiple splitters

12 FTTx PON Guide EXFO www.EXFO.com

ONU1 ONU3 ONU5

www.EXFO.com FTTx PON Guide EXFO 13

2.1.1 Collision Avoidance in Upstream Transmissions

2.2 OSP Equipment

Figure 2-6. OSP equipment for ONU installed outside premises

14 FTTx PON Guide EXFO www.EXFO.com

OSP equipment includes the following:

www.EXFO.com FTTx PON Guide EXFO 15

16 FTTx PON Guide EXFO www.EXFO.com

PON Passive Optical Components PON Passive Optical Components

Figure 2-8. Planar waveguide splitter Figure 2-9. FBT splitter

2.3 Active Equipment

www.EXFO.com FTTx PON Guide EXFO 17

3. PON OSP Installation

3. PON OSP Installation

www.EXFO.com FTTx PON Guide EXFO 19

3.2 Splitters, Patch Panels and Fiber-Management Systems

3.3 Splices and Enclosures

3.4 Drop Terminals

20 FTTx PON Guide EXFO www.EXFO.com

4. PON Installation Testing

4. PON Installation Testing

22 FTTx PON Guide EXFO www.EXFO.com

4.1 Performing Tests

24 FTTx PON Guide EXFO www.EXFO.com

Connector Type Typical ORL (dB)

www.EXFO.com FTTx PON Guide EXFO 25

4.3 Test 1: ORL Testing

26 FTTx PON Guide EXFO www.EXFO.com

4.3.1 Required Equipment

www.EXFO.com FTTx PON Guide EXFO 27