Effective strategies for gradual copper-to-fiber transition in access networks

In this paper, we analyze the improvements that can be achieved with the introduction of low-cost technical arrangements and devices into the present Fiber-To-The-Cabinet (FTTC) networks aiming: to support statistical multiplexing of groups of copper pairs shared among subscribers at protocol layer two, and to relay signals along the main cable. With simple calculations, we prove the bit rate per user can be increased well beyond, that achieved with present Fiber-To-The-Home (FTTH) network standards. Crosstalk performance degradation with respect to ideal case are analysed in the case of VDSL2 35b and G.fast technologies. Costs of the considered solutions are compared with those of FTTH networks. We show that in a short-medium term the low cost of investments required for updating the FTTC network can extend the life of existing copper-based networks providing at the same time a significant performance improvement with respect to the current FTTC configuration. This facilitates the smooth transition to FTTH supported by the re-investing of the acquired revenues. The solution considered in this paper moves in the direction of rendering feasible the European Gigabit Society (EGS) vision, whose objectives are extremely challenging (if not unreachable within the foreseen 2025 timeframe) with an all-fiber approach. In fact, as shown in this paper the Gigabit-ready hybrid copper-fiber approach technology provides a feasible path to significantly reduce “gigabit” deployment costs so to gradually move toward all-fiber EGS vision.