Strategies for economical next-generation 50G and 100G passive optical networks [Invited]

This paper discusses whether scaling current time-division-multiplexed passive optical network technology based on intensity modulation with direct detection with on–off-keying to even higher bit rates can continue to meet future bandwidth demands in a cost-effective way or if other strategies like alternative modulation formats, transmission technologies, digital signal processing, and/or expansion of capacity via multiple wavelengths are required to enable economical next-generation 50G and 100G passive optical networks.