WO2025090657A1

WO2025090657A1 - Gradual introduction of upgraded telecommunications service cards through a connection panel

Info

Publication number: WO2025090657A1
Application number: PCT/US2024/052640
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jose-Luis GONZALEZ BLAZQUEZ; Rudy Musschebroeck; David Jan Irma VAN BAELEN; Eric Lydia Paul PEETERS; Jaromir BLIZNAK
Original assignee: Commscope Technologies LLC
Current assignee: Commscope Technologies LLC
Priority date: 2023-10-23
Filing date: 2024-10-23
Publication date: 2025-05-01
Anticipated expiration: 2026-04-23

Abstract

In a PON network, a connection panel connects a new upgraded OLT card to all of the PON networks (customers) with a splitter arrangement. On Day 1, the signal is by four (a 1X4 splitter arrangement, including a 1X2 splitter and two 2X2 splitters) wherein the upgraded signal is shared by all of the PON networks. On Day 2, a second OLT card is added to the network. The splitter which divides the signal by two (a 1X2 splitter arrangement using the same 2X2 splitters) wherein the upgraded signal is shared by the PON networks, doubling the data capacity to the customers. On Day 3, third and fourth OLT cards are added to the network. The connection panel connects each of the cards to each of the PON networks, again doubling the data capacity to the customers over the two card arrangement on Day 2.

Description

GRADUAL INTRODUCTION OF UPGRADED TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICE CARDS THROUGH A CONNECTION PANEL

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 63/545,332, filed October 23, 2023; 63/616,121, filed December 29, 2023, and 63/575,453, filed April 5, 2024; the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

Telecommunications service providers for passive optical networks (PON) from time-to-time desire to upgrade telecommunications service to their customers. In one example, service providers employ GPON OLT (Optical Line Terminal) line cards, and desire to upgrade to higher data rate XGSPON service. One option is to change out all the GPON OLT line cards on Day 1 and replace them with upgraded GPON and XGSPON combination OLT line cards. However, a high number of customers may not want to switch over to the upgraded service on Day 1. The service provider therefore would have an underutilized upgraded system until the higher number of customers eventually subscribed to the upgraded service.

In a coexistence (CEX) system which employs GPON OLT (Optical Line Terminal) line cards and XGSPON OLT line cards, if the take up rate is not high on Day 1 , there will be an excessive investment by the service providers to have a full OLT panel with underutilized XGSPON OLT line cards in the system.

There is a need for equipment, systems and methods to upgrade service provided by the service providers over time as more customers subscribe to the upgraded service, without providing the full amount of higher data rate line cards on Day 1.

SUMMARY

In a PON network, gradual introduction of upgraded service is provided by equipment, systems and methods of the present inventive concepts. A connection panel, module or cable assembly connects a new upgraded OLT card to all of the PON networks (customers) with a splitter arrangement. Within the connection arrangement in one embodiment is a splitter which divides the signal by four (a 1X4 splitter arrangement, including a 1X2 splitter and two 2X2 splitters) for Day 1 operation wherein the upgraded signal is shared by all of the PON networks.

On Day 2, a second OLT card is added to the network. The connection arrangement connects the two cards to the PON networks. Within the connection panel is a splitter which divides the signal by two (a 1X2 splitter arrangement using the same 2X2 splitters) wherein the upgraded signal is shared by the PON networks. This has the effect of doubling the data capacity to the customers.

On Day 3, third and fourth OLT cards are added to the network. The connection arrangement connects each of the cards to each of the PON networks. Within the connection arrangement is a direct connection between the upgraded signal of each card each respective one of the four PON networks 20 (64 homes). This has the effect of again doubling the data capacity to the customers over the two card arrangement on Day 2.

Gradual introduction of upgraded service by adding upgraded OLT cards over time is provided by the inventive equipment, systems and methods disclosed herein.

Multi fiber cables, connectors and ports may be provided on the connection arrangement.

Single fiber cables, connectors and ports may be provided on the connection arrangement.

Other fiber circuits, equipment, systems and methods disclosed herein are provided for the gradual introduction of upgraded service.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a prior art system fully populated by combination line cards.

FIG. 2A shows a first example system populated on Day 1 with a single combination GPON and XGSPON line card connected to customers through a connection panel.

FIG. 2B shows the system of FIG. 2 A on Day 2 with two combination GPON and XGSPON line cards and the connection panel.

FIG. 2C shows the system of FIGS. 2A and 2B on Day 3 with four combination line cards and the connection panel.

FIG. 3 A is a schematic view of the connection panel of FIG. 2A. FIG. 3B is a schematic view of the connection panel of FIG. 2B.

FIG. 3C is a schematic view of the connection panel of FIG. 2C.

FIG. 4 is an example of a first connection module of the connection panel.

FIG. 5 is an example of a second connection module of the connection panel.

FIG. 6A is a further schematic view of the system shown in FIGS. 2A and 3A.

FIG. 6B is a further schematic view of the system shown in FIGS. 2B and 3B.

FIG. 6C is a further schematic view of the system shown in FIGS. 2C and 3C.

FIG. 7A is a further schematic view of the system shown in FIGS. 2A, 3A and 6A.

FIG. 7B is a further schematic view of the system shown in FIGS. 2B, 3B and 6B.

FIG. 7C is a further schematic view of the system shown in FIGS. 2C, 3C and 6C.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are further schematic views of the system of FIGS. 2-7, showing OLT equipment, example connection panels, and an optical distribution frame holding equipment, connected by cabling.

FIG. 9 shows a different prior art system from the system of FIG. 1, fully populated by GPON and XGSPON line cards, and coexistence equipment.

FIG. 10A shows a second example system populated on Day 1 with a single XGSPON line card connected to customers through the connection panel.

FIG. 10B shows the system of FIG. 10A on Day 2 with two XGSPON line cards and the connection panel.

FIG. IOC shows the system of FIGS. 10A and 10B on Day 3 with four XGSPON line cards and the connection panel.

FIG. 11A is a schematic view of the connection panel of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 1 IB is a schematic view of the connection panel of FIG. 10B.

FIG. 11C is a schematic view of the connection panel of FIG. IOC.

FIG. 12A is a further schematic view of the system shown in FIGS. 10A and

I IA.

FIG. 12B is a further schematic view of the system shown in FIGS. 10B and

IIB.

FIG. 12C is a further schematic view of the system shown in FIGS. IOC and

I IC. FIGS. 13 A, 13B, and 13C show an alternative distribution module with adapters for direct connecting to OLT line cards and PON network.

FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14C show an alternative system using different cabling and cable harnesses to connect the OLT line cards with the PON network on Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3, respectively.

FIGS. 15 A, 15B, and 15C show an alternative system using removable multi fiber patch cords on a connection module to connect the OLT line cards with the PON network on Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3, respectively.

FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C show an alternative system using changeable fiber pathways, including disconnectable multi fiber patch cords to connect the OLT line cards with the PON network on Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3, respectively.

FIG. 17 shows an alternative system with one input or two inputs, and 32 outputs.

FIG. 18A shows a panel incorporating the system of FIG. 17 on Day 1 with a single input port in use.

FIG. 18B shows the panel of FIG. 18A on Day 2 with two input ports in use.

FIGS. 19A- D show a modification to the panel of FIGS. 18A and 18B for controlling access to the respective Day 1 and Day 2 input ports.

FIG. 20 shows an alternative panel to the panel of FIGS. 18A and 18B including a cable assembly defining the inputs, instead of ports.

FIG. 21 shows an alternative arrangement to FIGS. 18 A, 18B, and 20, including a cable assembly defining the inputs and a cable assembly defining the outputs.

FIG. 22 shows an alternative system including a module having two discrete circuits.

FIG. 23 shows the module of FIG. 22 in an opposite perspective view.

FIG. 24 shows a schematic view of the two discrete circuits within the module of FIGS. 22 and 23.

FIG. 25A shows the modules of FIGS. 22 and 23 mounted in a chassis for Day 1 operation.

FIG. 25B shows the chassis of FIG. 25A.

FIGS. 26 and 27 show an alternative module is the module of FIGS. 22 and 23.

FIG. 28 shows the alternative module of FIGS. 26 and 27 mounted in a chassis for Day 2 operation. FIG. 29 shows cables with connectors mounted to the modules in the chassis of

FIG. 28.

FIG. 30 shows alternative modules and two alternative chassis to system of FIGS. 22 - 29.

FIG. 31 shows alternative modules and an alternative chassis to the module and chassis of FIG. 30.

FIG. 32 shows the alternative module of FIG. 31 and a further alternative chassis.

FIG. 33 shows OLT equipment with line cards positioned vertically.

FIG. 34 shows OLT equipment with line cards positioned horizontally.

FIG. 35 shows two modules of the type illustrated in FIGS. 30 - 32.

FIG. 36 is a side view of the modules illustrated in FIGS. 30 - 32.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of one of the modules shown in FIGS. 31 and 32.

FIG. 38 is a first end view of the module of FIG. 37 showing the Day 1 ports.

FIG. 39 is a second end view of the module of FIG. 37 showing the Day 2 ports.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of one of the modules shown in FIG. 30.

FIG. 41 is a first end view of the module of FIG. 40 showing the Day 1 ports.

FIG. 42 is a second end view of the module of FIG. 40 showing the Day 2 ports.

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a further alternative module with three sets of input ports on the front of the module and a set of output ports on a rear of the module.

FIG. 44 is a schematic showing operation of the module of FIG. 43 on Day 1 using a first set of the input ports.

FIG. 45 is a schematic showing operation of the module of FIG. 43 on Day 2 using a second set of the input ports.

FIG. 46 is a schematic showing operation of module of FIG. 43 on Day 3 using a third set of the input ports.

FIG. 47 is a side view of the module of FIG. 43.

FIG. 48 is a rear perspective view of the module of FIG. 43.

FIG. 49 is a top perspective view showing the module of FIGS. 43, 47 and 48 with a plurality of other modules mounted in a chassis.

FIG. 50 is a rear perspective view of the modules and chassis of FIG. 49.

FIG. 51 is a top perspective view of the chassis of FIGS. 49.

FIG. 52 is a perspective view of a further alternative module with a set of input ports, a set of output ports, and a parking area. FIG. 53 is a further perspective view of the module of FIG. 52.

FIGS. 54A and 54B show the module of FIGS. 52 and 53 on Day 1 of operation.

FIGS. 55A and 55B show the module of FIGS. 52 and 53 on Day 2 of operation.

FIGS. 56A and 56B show the module of FIGS. 52 and 53 on Day 3 of operation.

FIG. 57 shows four of the modules of FIGS. 52 and 53 mounted in a chassis. Six

FIG. 58 shows an alternative system with a single input on Day 1, and two outputs.

FIG. 59 shows a panel incorporating the system of FIG. 58, with a single input port in use, and 32 outputs.

FIG. 60 shows the alternative system of FIG. 58 with two inputs on Day 2, and two outputs.

FIG. 61 shows the panel of FIG. 59, with the two inputs on Day 2, and 32 outputs.

FIG. 62 shows a further implementation of the panel of FIGS. 59 and 61, including two circuits, each with a single input, and 32 outputs on Day 1.

FIG. 63 shows the panel of FIG. 62 with two inputs for each circuit and 32 outputs on Day 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to FIG. 1, a prior art PON network 1 is shown. A plurality of combination GPON and XGSPON OLT line cards 10 are shown, each connected to a PON network 20 of customers. In network 1 , the combination GPON and XGSPON OLT line cards 10, or combo card 10, each provide service to each PON network 20 of 64 customers. If the number of customers who switch over to the higher data rate service is relatively low, the service provider has an underutilized network of upgraded service provider line cards. In the example shown, there are four PON networks 20.

Referring now to FIG. 2 A, a PON network 100 is shown. A connection panel 30 connects a single combo card 10 to all of the PON networks. Within connection panel 30 is a splitter which divides the signal by four (a 1X4 splitter arrangement) wherein the upgraded 10G signal is shared by all of the four PON networks 20 (256 homes). Referring now to FIG. 2B, PON network 100 is shown with a second combo card 10 now added to the network 100. Connection panel 30 connects the two combo cards 10 to all of the PON networks 20. Within connection panel 30 is a splitter which divides the signal by two (a 1X2 splitter arrangement) wherein the upgraded 10G signal is shared by two of the four PON networks 20 (128 homes). This has the effect of doubling the data capacity to the customers.

Referring now to FIG. 2C, PON network 100 is shown with a third combo card 10 and a fourth combo card 10 now added to the network 100. Connection panel 30 connects each of combo cards 10 to each of the PON networks 10. Within connection panel 30 is a direct connection between the upgraded 10G signal of each combo card 10 to each respective one of the four PON networks 20 (64 homes). This has the effect of again doubling the data capacity to the customers over the arrangement of FIG. 2B.

Referring now to FIG. 3 A, and also to FIG. 2 A, the first OLT card 10 or combo card 10 is shown connected to a 1X4 splitter arrangement 32 on Day 1.

Referring now to FIG. 3B, and also to FIG. 2B, the first and second OLT cards 10 or combo cards 10 are each shown connected to a 1X2 splitter arrangement 34 on Day 2.

Referring now to FIG. 3C, and also to FIG. 2C, the first, second, third, and fourth OLT cards 10 or combo cards 10 are each shown directly connected to a respective single output 36 on Day 3.

Referring now to FIG. 4, a splitter module 40 is shown. Splitter module 40 is used in connection panel 30 on Day 1 and on Day 2 implementations. First port 42 is connected to first combo card 10 on Day 1. Within module 40 internal fiber optic circuitry including a 1X4 splitter arrangement then connects to each of ports 72, 74, 76, 78, through fiber pathways 52, 54, 56, 58.

On Day 2 second port 44 is connected to first combo card 10. Also on Day 2, third port 46 is connected to second combo card 10. Fourth port 48 is not used in the example, but it could be used in other examples, if desired. Within module 40, internal fiber optic circuitry including a 1X2 splitter arrangement connects second port 44 to first port 72 and second port 74, through fiber pathways 62, 64, respectively. Also within module 40, internal fiber optic circuitry including a 1X2 splitter arrangement connects third port 46 to third port 76 and fourth port 78, through fiber pathways 66, 68, respectively. Splitter module 40 may include a housing structure with exterior multi fiber adapters at ports 42, 44, 46, 48, 72, 74, 76, 78, for receiving multi fiber connectors. Within the housing structure of splitter module 40 are the various fiber pathways and splitter devices.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a distribution module 80 is shown. Distribution module 80 is used in connection panel 30 on Day 3 implementations. Ports 82, 84, 86, 88 connect to first, second, third, and fourth combo cards 10. Within module 80, internal fiber optic circuitry connects each of ports 82, 84, 86, 88 to ports 112, 114, 116, 118, through fiber pathways 92, 94, 96, 98.

Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, Days 1, 2 and 3, respectively, are represented in network 100. Further shown in FIGS 6A-C, are hydra cables 120, 130 which connect between the various cable ports of network 100. Combo cards 10 may include LC fiber ports. Modules 40, 80 include multi fiber or MPO ports. Each of the hydra cables 120 includes LC connectors 122 on one end of cable assembly 126, and an MPO plug 124 on an opposite end.

Referring now to FIG. 7A, an example splitter module 40 is shown in further detail. Splitter module 40 is used in connection panel 30 on Day 1 and on Day 2 implementations. First port 42 is connected to first combo card 10 on Day 1. Within module 40, internal fiber optic circuitry including a splitter arrangement 150 (in this case a 1X2 splitter and two 2X2 splitters) then connects to each of ports 72, 74, 76, 78, through fiber pathways 52, 54, 56, 58. The example splitter arrangement 150 includes a 1X2 splitter 152 followed by two 2X2 splitters 154, to divide the signal power by one-quarter.

Referring now to FIG. 7B, on Day 2 second port 44 is connected to first combo card 10 by disconnecting OLT side hydra 120 from port 42, and then connecting the same hydra 120 to port 44. Also on Day 2, third port 46 is connected to second combo card 10. Within module 40, internal fiber optic circuitry including the splitter arrangement 150 connects second port 44 to two or more of port 72, 74, 76, 78, through fiber pathways. Also within module 40, internal fiber optic circuitry including the splitter arrangement 150 connects third port 46 to two or more of ports 72, 74, 76,78, through fiber pathways. The splitter arrangement 150 includes two 2X2 splitters 154, to divide the signal power by one-half. Between Day 1 and Day 2, only the input (OLT side) hydra 120 from the first combo card 10 needs to be moved. The output (PON side) hydras 130 do not need to be moved or otherwise disrupted. Various fiber pathways in module 40 are possible. FIG. 4 shows second port 44 connected to ports 72 and 74, and third port 46 connected to ports 76 and 78. FIG. 7 shows second port 44 connected to each of ports 72, 74, 76, 78, and third port 46 connected to each ports 72, 74, 76, 78. Other pathways and splitter arrangements are possible.

Referring now to FIG. 7C, distribution module 80 is shown in greater detail. Distribution module 80 is used in connection panel 30 on Day 3 implementations. Ports 82, 84, 86, 88 connect to first, second, third, and fourth combo cards 10. Within module 80, internal fiber optic circuitry connects each of ports 82, 84, 86, 88 to ports 112, 114, 116, 118, through fiber pathways 92, 94, 96, 98. From Day 2 to Day 3, all of the hydras 120, 130 need to be removed from splitter module 40 to distribution module 80, and the hydras 120 for third and fourth combo cards 10 added to distribution module 80.

Sixteen (16) fiber muti fiber connectors are shown. Other muti fiber connectors are possible.

Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the network 100 of FIGS. 2-7, is shown with OLT equipment rack 160 with cards 10, and example connection panels 30 in the rack 160. Cabling 130 connects the connection panels 30 to an optical distribution frame 162 holding equipment 164, such as splitter panels or splice panels.

FIG. 9 shows a different prior art network 2 from the network 1 of FIG. 1, fully populated by GPON and XGSPON line cards, and coexistence equipment 220. A plurality of existing GPON OLT line cards 200, and newly added XGSPON OLT line cards 210 are shown, each connected to a PON network 20 of customers. In network 2, the GPON OLT line cards 200 and the XGSPON OLT line cards 210, each provide service to each PON network 20 of 64 customers. If the number of customers who switch over to the higher data rate service is relatively low, the service provider has an underutilized network of upgraded service provider line cards. In the example shown, there are four PON networks 20.

FIGS. 10A and 11A show a second example system populated on Day 1 with a single XGSPON line card 210 connected to customers through the connection panel.

FIG. 10B and 1 IB show the system of FIGS. 10A and 11A on Day 2 with two XGSPON line cards 210 and the connection panel 30.

FIGS. 10C and 11C show the system of FIGS. 10A, 10B, 11 A, 11B on Day 3 with four XGSPON line cards 210 and the connection panel 30. FIG. 12A is a further schematic view of the system shown in FIGS. 10A and

11 A.

FIG. 12B is a further schematic view of the system shown in FIGS. 10B and

I IB.

FIG. 12C is a further schematic view of the system shown in FIGS. 10C and

I IC.

Referring now to FIGS. 13A, 13B, and 13C, an alternative distribution module 280 is shown. Distribution module 280 is used in connection panel 30 on Day 3 implementations. Ports 82, 84, 86, 88 define adapters 282 which directly connect to first, second, third, and fourth combo cards 10 or XGSPON line cards 210 (with CEX), and directly connect to the PON networks.

Referring now FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14C show an alternative system 300 using different cabling and cable harnesses 310, 320, 330 to connect the combo cards 10 or XGSPON line cards 210 with the PON network on Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3, respectively. In the case of cable harness 330, a direct connection between the combo cards 10 or XGSPON line cards 210 (with CEX) such as with a panel 280 is possible instead of the additional cabling shown in FIG. 14C.

FIGS. 15A, 15B, and 15C show an alternative system 400 using removable multi fiber patch cords 410, 412, 414 on a connection module 402 to connect the cards 10 with the PON network on Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3, respectively. One advantage of system 400 is that input (OLT side) hydras 120 from the cards 10 do not need to be moved or otherwise disrupted on Day 2 or Day 3. Also, the output (PON side) hydras 130 do not need to be moved or otherwise disrupted on Day 2 or Day 3.

FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C show an alternative system 500 using changeable fiber pathways, including disconnectable multi fiber connections 502, 504, 506, to connect the cards 10 with the PON network Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3, respectively. One advantage of system 500 is that input (OLT side) hydras 120 from the cards 10 do not need to be moved or otherwise disrupted on Day 2 or Day 3. Also, the output (PON side) hydras 130 do not need to be moved or otherwise disrupted on Day 2 or Day 3.

FIG. 17 shows an alternative system 600 with one input 612 (Day 1) and two other inputs 614, 616 (Day 2), and multiple split outputs 620 (Day 1 and Day 2). Thirty-32 (32) outputs 620 are shown in system 600. Day 1 is shown with a single OLT input at input 612. Day 2 is shown when a second OLT input is added for increased data capacity, such as with a second OLT card added to the system using inputs 614, 616 instead of input 612. Day 2 is twice the data capacity of Day 1. The Day 1 signal passes through a 1 x 2 splitter 630 and, two 2 x 1 couplers 632. Two 1 x 16 splitters 634 are shown for providing the 32 outputs 620. The Day 2 signals pass through the two 2 x 1 couplers 632 and then the two 1 x 16 splitters 634.

FIG. 18A shows a panel 650 incorporating the system 600 of FIG. 17 on Day 1 with a single input or port 612 in use by cable 636. FIG. 18B shows the panel 650 of FIG. 18A on Day 2 with two inputs or ports 614, 616 in use with the same cable 636 and a second cable 638. In one implementation, ports 612, 614, 616 are single fiber ports, such as SC fiber adapters. In one implementation, outputs 620 are single fiber ports, such as SC fiber adapters. Panel 650 can have a housing construction with all front ports, and internal circuitry like that shown in FIG. 17.

FIGS. 19A- D show a modification to the panel 650 of FIGS. 18A and 18B for controlling access to the respective Day 1 input port 612, and Day 2 input ports 614, 616. A slideable cover 670 is movable between a first position (FIG. 19A) where port 612 is exposed and ports 614, 616 are covered, to a second position (FIG. 19D), where ports 614, 616 are exposed and port 612 is covered.

FIG. 20 shows an alternative panel 652 to the panel 650 of FIGS. 18A and 18B including a cable assembly 654 defining the inputs 662, 664, 666 in the form of connectorized cables, instead of ports 612, 614, 616.

FIG. 21 shows an alternative arrangement to FIGS. 18 A, 18B, and 20, including a cable assembly 672 with a first cable assembly 654 defining the inputs, and a second cable assembly 674 defining the outputs in the form of connectorized cables 676.

FIGS. 22-25B show an alternative system 700 including a module 702 having two discrete fiber circuits 704, 706. A plurality of modules 702 are used in system 700 as shown in FIG. 25 A. Modules 702 are positioned on a chassis 710. Chassis 710 can be rack mounted with flanges 712.

FIGS. 22 and 23 show the module 702 having a body 720 and a first end 722 and a second end 724. First end 722 includes fiber adapters 730 defining ports used on Day 1. Second end 724 includes fiber adapters 740 used on Day 2.

FIG. 24 shows a schematic view of the two discrete circuits 704, 706 within the module 702 of FIGS. 22 and 23. One adapter 732 of first adapters 730 forms an input for circuit 704 which is split by splitter 736 into a plurality of output adapters 734. In the example shown, the splitter 736 is a one by two splitter. Adapters 734 of first adapters 730 include two ports and may be referred to as a duplex adapter. Adapters 742 of second adapters 740 form inputs ports which pass through to adapters 744. On Day 1, adapters 732, 734 are used. On Day 2, cables are disconnected from adapters 732, 734, and cables are connected to adapters 742, 744.

FIG. 25A shows the modules 702 of FIGS. 22 and 23 mounted in a chassis for Day 1 operation. For Day 2 operation, the modules are rotated around so that second end 724 is adjacent a front of chassis 714.

System 700 of FIGS. 22-25B is advantageous in that the same module 702 is used on Day 1 and Day 2. In the example shown, the module 702 id reversible.

FIGS. 26-29 show an alternative module 802 for an alternative system 800 similar in some respects to system 700. Module 802 of FIGS. 26 and 27 has a similar first end 822 to module 702. Module 802 is reversible in a similar manner as module 702. Module 802 includes less adapters 840 and no internal circuitry at second end 824 relative to module 702. In this case, one half as many adapters 840 results in less signal loss due to there being less fiber interconnections.

FIG. 28 shows the alternative module of FIGS. 26 and 27 mounted in chassis 710 for Day 2 operation. Day 1 operation would look similar to FIG. 25 A. FIG. 29 shows input cables 850 with connectors mounted to the adapters 840, and output cables 860 with connectors mounted to the same adapters 840 of the modules 802 in the chassis of FIG. 28.

FIGS. 30-42 shows an alternative system 900 including modules 902, 1002 and two alternative chassis 910, 1010 to systems 700, 800 of FIGS. 22 - 29. Modules 902, 1002 are reversible like modules 702, 802, with first ends 922, 1022, and second ends 924, 1024. FIG. 38 is a first end view of the module of FIG. 37 showing the Day 1 ports. FIG. 39 is a second end view of the module of FIG. 37 showing the Day 2 ports. FIG. 41 is a first end view of the module of FIG. 40 showing the Day 1 ports. FIG. 42 is a second end view of the module of FIG. 40 showing the Day 2 ports. First ends 922, 1022, define inputs 932, and outputs (split signal) 934 for Day 1 operation. Second ends 924, 1024 define inputs 942, and outputs (no split signal) 944 for Day 2 operation. Modules 902, 1002 also have the two discrete circuits like modules 702, 802. Module 902 is a single module and has a single set of discrete circuits. Module 1002 is double module and has two sets of discrete circuits.

FIG. 30-32 shows alternative chassis 910, 1010 for mounting the modules 902, 1002 in a horizontal or vertical orientation with respect to the input and output ports. FIG. 33 shows first OLT equipment 1040 with line cards 1042 positioned vertically. The vertical orientations of the modules 902, 1002 are useful for cable routing and cable management connecting with vertically oriented line cards. FIG. 34 shows second OLT equipment 1050 with line cards 1052 positioned horizontally. The horizontal orientations of the modules 902, 1002 are useful for cable routing and cable management connecting with horizontally oriented line cards.

FIGS. 43-51 show a further alternative module 1102 with three sets of input ports on a front 1122 of the module and a set of output ports 1138 on a rear 1124 of the module.

FIG. 44 is a circuit schematic showing operation of the module of FIG. 43 on Day 1 using a first set of the input ports, in this case a single port 1126. The other input ports are not used. The input signal is split into fourths.

FIG. 45 is a circuit schematic showing operation of the module FIG. 43 on Day

2 using a second set of the input ports, in this case two ports 1128. The other input ports are not used. The input signals are split into halves.

FIG. 46 is a circuit schematic showing operation of the module FIG. 43 on Day

3 using a third set of the input ports, in this case four ports 1130. The other input ports are not used. The input signals are not split and the circuit paths are pass through.

FIGS. 49 and 50 show the module 1102 of FIGS. 43, 47 and 48 with a plurality of other modules mounted in a chassis 1110. Module 1102 has rear output ports 1138 that are front accessible for the output cables. If a connection or disconnection to ports 1138 is needed, the module 1102 can be removed from the chassis 1110 for access to the ports 1138. FIG. 51 is a top perspective view of the chassis of FIGS . 49 showing cable troughs 1114 extending from a front 1112 to a rear 1113 of chassis 1110.

FIGS. 52-57 show a further alternative module 1202 with a set of input ports 1220, 1222, 1224, 1226, a set of output ports 1238, and a parking area 1240.

FIGS. 54A and 54B show the module 1202 of FIGS. 52 and 53 on Day 1 of operation.

FIGS. 55A and 55B show the module 1202 of FIGS. 52 and 53 on Day 2 of operation.

FIGS. 56A and 56B show the module 1202 of FIGS. 52 and 53 on Day 3 of operation. FIG. 57 shows four of the modules 1202 of FIGS. 52 and 53 mounted in a chassis 1210. Airflow openings in module 1202 facilitate cooling in and around the chassis and other equipment.

The diagrams show the fibers and splitters that are connected to the first fiber of the OLT MPO connectors at first input port 1220.

On Day 1, the first fiber of OLT MPO 1 (1220) is split and gives services to fibers 1-4 of the ODF MPO 1 (1238). The 16th fiber of OLT MPO 1 (1220) is split and gives service to fibers 13-16 of ODF MPO 4 (1238). So all ODF MPO ports 1238 are used. See also FIG. 15A-15C.

The “1 +2+3+4” below arrow 1250 on Day 1, means that this first fiber is giving service to fibers 1,2, 3, 4 of ODF MPO 1.

The “1+3” below arrow 1250 on Day 2, means that this first fiber is giving service to fibers 1 and 3 of ODF MPO 1.

The “2+4” below the arrow 1252 Day 2, means that this first fiber is giving service to fibers 2 and 4 of ODF MPO 1.

On Day 3 the first fibers of each OLT MPO are giving service to respectively fibers 1,2,3 and 4 of ODF MPO 1.

As service moves from Day 1 to Day 2, and Day 2 to Day 3, the disconnected and now unused cables and connectors of the circuit on Day 1 are stored in parking area 1240. As service moves from Day 1 to Day 2, and Day 2 to Day 3, ports 1222, 1224, 1226 are then used as inputs as line cards are added.

FIGS. 16A-16C shows an alternative implementation for FIGS. 52-57. There on Day 1 , fiber 1 of OLT MPO 1 is giving service to the first fibers of the 4 different ODF MPOs. Figure 16C shows that on Day 3, the fibers of each OLT MPO are giving service to the corresponding fibers of the ODF MPOs.

Fiber connectors with 8, 12, 16 or 24 fibers may be used. For OLT line cards having 16 ports, the 16 fiber MPO is a logical choice. In the future (e.g. with line cards that combine GPON, XGS-PON and 50G-PON) line cards may have fewer ports, or other numbers of ports.

FIG. 58 shows an alternative system 1300 with a single input port 1312 in use on Day 1, and two output ports 1320. Input port 1312 is connected to a connectorized input cable 1310. System 1300 includes a splitter 1330. One of the outputs 1322 from splitter 1330 is connected to first output port 1320a. A second output 1324 from splitter 1330 is connected to a second input port 1314, which is connected to second output port 1320b.

System 1300 may include a further splitter which splits each of the outputs 1322, 1326 within the system into greater numbers of outputs, such as 16. In that example, system 1300 would have 32 outputs 1320. In one example, input ports 1312, 1314 are single fiber ports like SC or LC, and each of output ports 1320 are single fiber ports like SC or LC. The further splitter may be located further downstream if desired after output ports 1320.

System 1300 may include a multi fiber input 1312, wherein each fiber is connected to its own splitter 1330. In one example, input ports 1312, 1314 are multi fiber ports like MPO, and each of output ports 1320 are single fiber ports like SC or LC.

FIG. 59 shows a panel 1400 incorporating the system of FIG. 58, with a single input port 1312 in use, and 32 outputs. Input port 1314 is connected to splitter 1330 by second output 1324. Second output 1324 is in the form of a connectorized cable which extends from an interior of the panel 1400 to an exterior of the panel 1400 for selective connection to second input port 1314.

FIG. 60 shows the alternative system of FIG. 58 with two inputs 1310, 1316 now provided on Day 2, and two outputs 1320. Day 2 represents when the system 1300 has increased service capacity. Second output 1324 from splitter 1330 is disconnected from port 1314, and placed in a parking area 1340. Additional service is added to port 1314 by newly added input 1316.

FIG. 62 shows a further implementation of the panel 1500 of FIGS. 59 and 61, including two circuits, each with a single input 13112, and 32 outputs on Day 1.

FIG. 63 shows the panel of FIG. 62 with two inputs 1312, 1314 for each circuit and 32 outputs for each circuit on Day 2. With the disclosed examples, different split ratios are possible including: 1 :2 and 1 : 1 over time; or 1 :4, 1 :2, and 1 : 1 over time.

In the disclosed examples, the OLT input connectors or ports may be SC, LC, MPO type connectors on a panel or module, or alternatively they may be cabled directly with a fanout to the OLT such as with a module. In one example, the inputs to the OLT may be 16 fiber MPO ports. The OLT connectivity in some examples, may be MPO 16 fiber to SC or LC ports.

In the disclosed examples, the output connectors to the ODF may be SC, LC, MPO type connectors, or cabled fanout assemblies with fanouts to these connectors, or alternatively using cabled modules that can mount directly into the ODF.

In the disclosed examples, various housing styles may be used for the connectivity between the OLTs and the ODFs. In some examples, the housings may be an LGX type or other type of cassette or module where several of them can be held inside a panel or chassis. The cassettes or modules can be horizontally or vertically mounted. In other examples, the housing style may be a 19 inch panel of 1RU height or more.

Having described the preferred aspects and implementations of the present disclosure, modifications and equivalents of the disclosed concepts may readily occur to one skilled in the art. However, it is intended that such modifications and equivalents be included within the scope of the claims which are appended hereto.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A telecommunications connection panel, comprising: a panel construction including: first, second, and third OLT multi fiber input ports; a plurality of PON multi fiber output ports; a splitter arrangement including: a first 1X2 splitter with an input and two outputs; first and second 2X2 splitters each with two inputs and two outputs; wherein the two outputs of the first 1X2 splitter each pass though one of the two inputs of the first and second 2X2 splitters, respectively; the first OLT multi fiber port having N fibers connected to the input of the first 1X2 splitter; the second OLT multi fiber port having N fibers connected to the other of the two inputs of the first 2X2 splitter; the third OLT multi fiber port having N fibers connected to the other of the two inputs of the second 2X2 splitter; wherein an N number of splitter arrangements is provided; the plurality of PON multi fiber output ports connected to the outputs of the N number of splitter arrangements; wherein a signal provided to the first OLT multi fiber port is split by one- fourth; wherein a signal provided by the second OLT multi fiber port is split by one-half; wherein a signal provided by the third OLT multi fiber port is split by one- half.

2. The telecommunications connection system of claim 1 , comprising: first, second, third, and fourth PON multi fiber output ports.

3. A telecommunications connection system, comprising: a first OLT card provided on Day 1 ; a second OLT card provided on Day 2; a splitter arrangement including: a first 1X2 splitter with an input and two outputs; first and second 2X2 splitters each with two inputs and two outputs; wherein the two outputs of the first 1X2 splitter each pass though one of the two inputs of the first and second 2X2 splitters, respectively; a first multi-fiber port connected to the input of the first 1X2 splitter; a second multi fiber port connected to the other of the two inputs of the first 2X2 splitter; a third multi fiber port connected to the other of the two inputs of the second 2X2 splitter; the first OLT card connected to the first multi-fiber port on Day 1; the first OLT card disconnected from the first multi-fiber port on Day 2; the first OLT card connected to the second multi fiber port on Day 2; the second OLT card connected to the third multi fiber port on Day 2; wherein a signal provided by the first OLT card on Day 1 is split by one- fourth; wherein a signal provided by the first OLT card on Day 2 is split by one- half; wherein a signal provided by the second OLT card on Day 2 is split by one- half.

4. A method of providing telecommunications service, comprising: providing a first OLT card on Day 1 ; providing a second OLT card provided on Day 2; providing a connection arrangement including: a first 1X2 splitter with an input and two outputs; first and second 2X2 splitters each with two inputs and two outputs; wherein the two outputs of the first 1X2 splitter each pass though one of the two inputs of the first and second 2X2 splitters, respectively; a first multi-fiber port connected to the input of the first 1X2 splitter; a second multi fiber port connected to the other of the two inputs of the first 2X2 splitter; a third multi fiber port connected to the other of the two inputs of the second 2X2 splitter; connecting the first OLT card to the first multi-fiber port on Day 1 ; disconnecting the first OLT card from the first multi-fiber port on Day 2; connecting the first OLT card to the second multi fiber port on Day 2; connecting the second OLT card to the third multi fiber port on Day 2; wherein a signal provided by the first OLT card on Day 1 is split by one- fourth; wherein a signal provided by the first OLT card on Day 2 is split by one- half; wherein a signal provided by the second OLT card on Day 2 is split by one- half.

5. A telecommunications connection panel, comprising: a cable arrangement including: first, second, and third OLT input ports; a plurality of PON output ports; a splitter arrangement including: a first 1X2 splitter with an input and two outputs; first and second 2X1 splitters/couplers, each with two inputs and one output; wherein the two outputs of the first 1X2 splitter each pass though one of the two inputs of the first and second 2X1 splitters/couplers, respectively.

6. The telecommunications connection system of claim 5, comprising: a further splitter connected to each of the first and second 2X1 splitters/couplers.

7. A telecommunications connection system, comprising: a first OLT card provided on Day 1 ; a second OLT card provided on Day 2; a splitter arrangement including: a first 1X2 splitter with a first input and two outputs; a pass through circuit with two inputs and two outputs; the first OLT card connected to the first input on Day 1 ; the first OLT card disconnected from the first input on Day 2; the first OLT card connected to one of two inputs on Day 2; the second OLT card connected to the other of two inputs on Day 2; wherein a signal provided by the first OLT card on Day 1 is split by one- half; wherein a signal provided by the first OLT card on Day 2 is not split; wherein a signal provided by the second OLT card on Day 2 is not split; wherein the splitter arrangement and the pass through circuit are associated with the same housing.

8. A circuit, system, method of providing telecommunications service, comprising: providing a first OLT card on Day 1 ; providing a second OLT card provided on Day 2; providing third and fourth OLT Cards on Day 3; providing a connection arrangement including: wherein a signal provided by the first OLT card on Day 1 is split by one- fourth; wherein a signal provided by the first OLT card on Day 2 is split by one- half; wherein a signal provided by the second OLT card on Day 2 is split by one- half; wherein a signals provided by the first, second, third and fourth OLT cards on Day 3 are not split.

9. The circuit, system, method of claim 8, wherein the input signal on Day 1 is delivered to a new input port on Day 2.

10. The circuit, system, method of claim 9, wherein the input signals on Day 2 are delivered to a new input ports on Day 3.

11. The circuit, system, method of claim 8, wherein the input signal on Day 1 is delivered to the same input port on Day 2.

12. The circuit, system, method of claim 9, wherein the input signals on Day 2 are delivered to the same input ports on Day 3.

13. The circuit, system, method of claim 8, further comprising a parking area for connectorized cables not used after Day 1.

14. A circuit, system, method of providing telecommunications service, comprising: providing a first OLT card on Day 1 ; providing a second OLT card on Day 2; providing a connection arrangement including: wherein a first signal provided by the first OLT card on Day 1 is split by one-half into a first half and a second half, wherein the first half forms one output, and the second half is connected to a second input connected to a second output; wherein the second half of the first signal provided by the first OLT card on Day 2 is disconnected from the second input and reconnected to a parking area; wherein a second signal provided by the second OLT card on Day 2 is connected to the second input connected to the second output.