Selecting the most suitable next-generation in-building network: From copper-based to optical solutions

Next generation optical access networks will increase the bandwidth to the customer substantially and even beyond the current in-building network bandwidth. The same way optical is revolutionizing the access network, there is an ongoing trend where optical is used for in-building networks as well. Different optical solutions are available today, each with their specific application areas. Often it is not only a choice between different optical transmission media, but also the topology and installation method can differ according to the situation. Next to the new optical solutions, copper-based technologies can still have several advantages in new installations. Choices are based on the installation economics and several influencing parameters like building status, type and size, available infrastructure and bandwidth requirements. This paper presents a detailed techno-economic model for all different fixed in-building network solutions and this model is applied in various realistic scenarios. As a conclusion, the paper also presents a general selection scheme for different in-building scenarios, based on the technical requirements and the outcome of the techno-economic calculations. This scheme can be used as a general guideline for choosing the most suitable in-building network solution in a specific scenario.