Optical Network Units (ONUs) are a key part of fiber-to-the-home networks and enable delivery of high-speed broadband services to end users. There are a number of standards that ONUs must comply with to ensure interoperability and performance. Some key standards include:
ITU-T G.984 - This standard defines GPON networks. Most GPON ONUs conform to this standard which allows them to connect to GPON fiber networks deployed by operators worldwide. It covers aspects like framing, signaling, ONU management etc.
IEEE 802.3ah - Specifies Ethernet in the First Mile over optical fiber. ONUs with Gigabit Ethernet ports comply with this standard for high-speed Ethernet connectivity. It defines the physical layer for transmission over fiber.
ITU-T G.987 - Specifies 10-gigabit GPON networks also known as XGPON. XGPON ONU follows this standard to achieve 10Gbps speeds on fiber networks. It builds on G.984.
SCTE 55-1 - Applies to RF video overlay for CATV services. CATV ONU use this standard for delivery of cable TV services alongside broadband internet. It ensures compatibility with existing HFC networks.
Wi-Fi Alliance certifications - ONU with WiFi conform to standards like 802.11ac Wave 2 and 802.11ax (WiFi 6) to ensure wireless interoperability and performance. Vendors highlight these certifications.
TR-069 - Allows remote management of ONU settings by the operator's management system. Facilitates easy setup and troubleshooting.
IPv4/IPv6 support - ONU support key IP standards for routing traffic and addressing. Includes support options like DHCP server/relay as well as NAT.
Power consumption and safety standards for ONU hardware.
Quality and durability standards for ONU enclosures.
Management protocols for remote provisioning and control.
1 Gbps ports on most ONUs per IEEE 802.3ab. Multi-Gig ports follow 802.3bz.
RJ-45 connectors for Ethernet per TIA-568. Fiber connectors like SC/APC.
SFP/SFP+ slots for pluggable optics per MSA standards.
Number of PON ports, Ethernet ports, WiFi radios, CATV ports etc.
Supported PON technologies - EPON, GPON, XGS-PON, XG-PON, NG-PON2.
Performance - Traffic management, QoS, low latency for applications like online gaming.
WiFi 6, mesh networking and 5G/4G support on latest models.
IPTV support - Multicast forwarding, IGMP snooping, number of VoD streams etc.
Integration of voice ports, POTS, FXO, FXS.
Bridge/router modes, VLAN support, firewall features, USB ports.
Diagnostics - Like optical power monitoring, PRBS bit error testing.
In summary, established standards ensure ONU interoperability and performance while vendors differentiate by innovating on hardware, features and software capabilities. As fiber broadband networks evolve to multi-gigabit speeds, WiFi 6 wireless meshing, 5G backhaul and low-latency applications, ONU vendors adapt products to exceed standards and meet customer needs.
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