How Does Passive Optical Network Tackle Radio Access Network Evolution?

Abstract

This paper describes full service access network operator group perspectives on the feasibility of optical access networks to carry radio access network traffic for the existing and future mobile generations. The paper discusses topics related to the evolution of radio access interfaces, such as backhaul, midhaul, and fronthaul, their transmission through optical distribution networks, and passive optical network technology feasibility based on both time and wavelength division multiplexing and multiple accesses. Technology extensions are also discussed to provide guidance for future research.