Requirements and Solutions for Next-Generation Access

Next-generation access systems will have to provide sustained bandwidths in excess of 100 Mb/s per residential customer, in conjunction with increased reach in the range of 20 to 60 km. In addition, low energy consumption and ease of installation and operation are required. Many potential solutions have been proposed which range from Active to Passive Optical Networks. We provide an analysis of possible solutions, with focus on Passive Optical Networks.