Powering issues in an optical fibre customer access network

The authors give a review of alternatives for powering equipment at the customer end of an optical customer access network (CAN). The alternatives include: local, network, hybrid and optical powering. Comparisons are based on the following aspects; operation and maintenance costs, technological constraints, expected problems, safety, and power requirements. Related issues, such as sizing of backup battery, are discussed. Descriptions of a demonstration unit for local powering and optical CAN trials by Telecom Australia are given.<>