10G-EPON OLT chips support symmetric and asymmetric

PMC-Sierra sources cited the devices’ in-band optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) and upstream signal analyzer capabilities as differentiators. The line diagnostic features can pinpoint the location of cuts and bends, even those beyond the splitter, the PMC-Sierra sources asserted. The results of the tests can be displayed on a computer via a combination of PMC-Sierra-supplied firmware and software.

Meanwhile, on-chip fiber automatic protection switching (APS) enables rapid switch-over in cases of network failures. The chips’ quality of service support exceeds China Telecom specifications, including IPv6 protocol support. A loss-less power save capability reduces power requirements as well as operational expenses, PMC-Sierra says. The technique is currently in the process of being standardized by the IEEE and ITU, the sources explain.

PMC-Sierra offers reference designs and software design kits (SDK) for the new devices. The SDK includes a 10G-EPON protocol stack, a complete set of traffic management drivers, IEEE 802.3av/ah OAM protocol including operator-specific stacks, optical diagnostics functions, and pre-integrated peripheral drivers.

The OLT device family reference designs will be available in the second quarter of 2011 to select customers. Companion ONU devices should be available later this year, the sources said.

October 13, 2011

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