Last Mile Systems, In‐House‐Networks, LAN‐ and MAN‐Applications

This chapter reviews the most important issues related to communication systems that use polymer optical fibers (POF) as transmission media. In‐home networks and networks within transportation systems are two areas where POF can exploit its strengths. The chapter also presents a knowledge‐based framework to support the design of 60 GHz radio over fiber (RoF) land networks for smart cities. The design framework is developed using design rule‐based approach. Free space optical communications is an emerging technology that offers a large bandwidth for data, voice and video transmissions in mostly short‐ to medium‐link distance applications. Wireless Local Area Networks are meant to provide local connectivity and are aimed at the rapid provision of nomadic and multiple‐access connectivity to a network. The chapter also talks about green optical access networks and energy efficiency in optical core networks.