A flexible access system for fiber and copper distribution networks

The access network (AN) is the whole network between the first local homing node (local switch, crossconnect, TV-Headend, etc.) and the subscriber terminal (voice, data and TV). The access network serves derived lines (lines connected to some remote electronic equipment in the feeder/loop plant). Many different, application specific types of access products exist, which are briefly discussed. With the universal AN, the functionality of the different, application specific access products can be integrated into a single universal AN-system. An overview of the functional architecture of this universal AN-system is given. The functional architecture is described. The advantages of the universal AN-system are discussed.