The ever-growing requests for more bandwidth from applications running over the Internet are driving the need to upgrade access networks with high-capacity connections. This book presents fundamental passive optical network (PON) concepts, providing readers with the tools needed to understand, design, and build these new access networks. The logical sequence of topics begins with the underlying principles and components of optical fiber communication technologies used in access networks. Next, the book progresses from descriptions of PON and fiber-to-the-X (FTTX) alternatives to their application to fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) networks and, lastly, to essential measurement and testing procedures for network installation and maintenance.

A wealth of practical material and special features enables readers to grasp the differences among the major types of PON architectures and identify the pros and cons of FTTX alternatives, including:

• A detailed overview of optical cables, passive components, and transceivers needed to implement FTTP networks
• Illustrations of FTTP implementation criteria in different categories of neighborhoods, optical power budget analysis for network designs, and options for supplying electrical power to customer equipment
• Discussions of FTTP cable plan implementations, including cabling interfaces and enclosures in the central office, cables and equipment enclosures in the outside plant, and optical cable installation procedures
• Descriptions of measurement techniques and troubleshooting guidelines for verifying that networks have been configured properly

An accompanying Web site provides a free downloadable interactive FTTP network simulation tool. This educational program provides readers with practical hands-on experience with FTTP networks.

With global telecommunications companies racing to install cost-effective FTTP networks, this is essential reading for engineers and managers involved in telecommunications and signal processing. Moreover, the 126 homework problems make this an excellent textbook for senior-level courses covering the principles and applications of PON technology.