Differences Between GPON and EPON:
GPON: GPON is based on the ITU-T G.984 standard, established by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU-T).
EPON: EPON is based on the IEEE 802.3 standard, which is part of the Ethernet standard, suitable for constructing passive optical networks.
GPON: GPON uses the GPON Encapsulation Method (GEM) as its upper-layer protocol, enabling the simultaneous transmission of various services such as data, voice, and video.
EPON: EPON uses Ethernet frames as its upper-layer protocol, making it easier to integrate with existing Ethernet networks.
GPON: GPON typically provides symmetric or asymmetric rates, with symmetric rates reaching up to 2.5 Gbps and asymmetric rates at 1.25 Gbps.
EPON: EPON offers symmetric rates, typically at 1 Gbps.
GPON: GPON supports longer transmission distances, up to 60 kilometers. Additionally, GPON supports more users with a split ratio often as high as 1:128.
EPON: EPON has shorter transmission distances, typically around 20 kilometers. The split ratio is generally 1:32.
GPON: Interoperability between OLTs and ONUs from different vendors may be challenging, requiring stricter vendor certification.
EPON: EPON typically exhibits better interoperability as it adheres to IEEE standards, aiding compatibility between devices from different vendors.
GPON: GPON is widely used in operator networks globally, especially in FTTH (Fiber to the Home) and FTTB (Fiber to the Building) deployments.
EPON: EPON finds widespread use in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in countries like Japan and South Korea.
In summary, the choice between GPON and EPON often depends on specific deployment requirements, network scale, and geographical location.