Statistical optical analysis of passive optical networks provides "plug and play" installation with fiber in the loop system

Two approaches to performing an optical power budget analysis of passive optical networks (PONs) are addressed. A worst case approach and a statistical approach are described and applied to various PON configurations. The results of the two approaches are compared for their impact on the requirements and cost of the fiber-in-the-loop (FITL) system transmitter and receiver. The highest loss component in the PON, the splitter/coupler, is examined in greater detail with actual product performance statistics for a particular coupler technology. Its impact on PON optical loss and dynamic range requirements is compared to requirements derived from generic performance guidelines.