The ODN optical distribution network is the final link connecting users with telecom operators' internet, cable connections, and telephone services. Over the past decade, the ODN optical distribution network has played a silent yet crucial role in the wide application and deployment of the Passive Optical Network (PON). During this period, the focus of ODN optical distribution network development was on reducing upfront costs rather than increasing functionality. Currently, the industry is pushing to introduce modern technology into the ODN optical distribution network to reduce operating costs and improve the performance of the access network.
The components of the ODN optical distribution network have basically remained unchanged, still comprising optical fibers and passive splitters. What has truly changed is the way ODN optical distribution networks are constructed.
The first generation ODN optical distribution network required skilled technicians to perform splicing using expensive fusion splicers, an operation typically conducted in a controlled environment, such as an enclosed van, to prevent dust and other contaminants. Although this approach was costly and time-consuming, it ensured low optical link loss and good performance.
The main advantage of the second generation ODN optical distribution network is that all splicing and subsequent testing are completed at the factory, eliminating the need for on-site fiber splicing. This allows for faster installation, lower costs, and predictable installation results. Some products even offer pre-terminated optical cables to facilitate connections from user homes to ODN junction boxes without the service provider's involvement.
In addition to pre-termination, another major innovation of the second generation ODN optical distribution network is the use of digital labels for each fiber and port. These labels can be easily inputted into an intelligent database to create a digitized optical distribution network.
The emergence of pre-terminated and digitally labeled fibers, splitters, and fiber storage boxes has significantly reduced network deployment time and costs for operators, but it did not address operating costs. The third generation ODN optical distribution network aims to reduce the operating costs of the ODN optical distribution network by introducing automation, active monitoring, and intelligent technologies.
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