A new approach to the provision of POTS and CATV over passive optical networks

A novel approach to the provision of POTS (plain old telephone systems) and CATV over passive optical networks utilizing mature analog carrier technologies is described. Specifically, a network providing 32 subscribers with POTS (with pulse code modulation quality) and 16 CATV channels (with a signal-to-noise ratio of 50 dB) from a single headend laser is described. Two subscriber terminals were constructed. They were compact and of relatively low power consumption. The system is expected to be economically feasible on short- to medium-term timescales. System upgrades in terms of additional channels, subscribers, and premium services are discussed.<>