A Guide to Outdoor Optical Network Solutions

When it comes to optical network terminals, you’ve got a lot of options. Not only do you have to decide on which type of equipment you’ll use, but you also have to determine whether you want to place your optical network terminal indoors or outdoors, both of which have unique advantages and disadvantages. This week’s UGrid Network blog post discusses outdoor optical network solutions and what kinds of benefits they provide. We’ve even included some specifics about our preferred devices. 

UGrid Network specializes in technology connection and devices. Whether you’re in need of coaxial cable filters, modems, accessories, or other products, our experienced team can help. Read this week’s blog to learn more about optical networking and reach out to us today!

Why Choose an Outdoor Optical Network Solution?

An optical network terminal (ONT) is a unit that’s typically located on the side of a residence or in the garage. It converts the signal from fiber optic light into both copper and electrical signals. These network cables are composed of a bundle of thin, glass fibers that are surrounded by an insulated jacket. 

Not only do ONTs have a very high bandwidth, but they are more secure because the electrical signal can’t be tapped, unlike in traditional RF connection methods. There’s also an absence of electrical power over the line, which means there is no spark hazard. 

There are some important advantages to understand when it comes to outdoor optical network solutions. First and foremost, outdoor ONTs are fairly low-maintenance once they are installed. They are generally also placed out of the way, so there’s no danger of people accidentally running into them and disturbing your connection. 

Solutions From UGrid Network 

At UGrid Network, we understand the value of a reliable, safe network connection. That’s why we’ve developed cutting-edge technology, including our outdoor optical network solutions. This week’s post discusses two of our main solutions, the U8 OLT and the uOPG ONU. 

U8 Outdoor OLT 

Our U8 Outdoor OLT is based on a new concept we call “virtual hub.” With modular optical line termination (OLT) and erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) units in a diecast housing, this technology can provide multi-service access, including data, voice, and community antenna television (CATV). This technology is the updated, low-cost, and more efficient model for fiber to the x (FTTx) solution in a bidirectional network transformation, which is a means of maintaining consistency between two or more models. 

Our U8 Outdoor OLT offers some important advantages. It has a compact form factor, meaning it provides flexibility as far as mounting options. It can be mounted on the ground, to an electrical pole, or on the wall, depending on what works best for your particular situation. It’s also resistant to severe weather conditions and has a two-stage surge protection, meaning you won’t have to worry about placing it outside in harsh climatic conditions. 

Additionally, the U8 offers a dual power supply, with a redundant power supply designed for back-up purposes in case of an emergency. One of the power supplies can be replaced with batteries for a more reliable, uninterrupted service connection, which lasts a maximum of 90 minutes. 

In conjunction with the UGrid Network ONU, including our uOPG, the U8 can manage optical network units (ONU) remotely through WEB/TELNET/CLI/EMS. It also supports auto discovery, configuration, and firmware upgrades for ONUs, which allows for a more plug-and-plug type of installation experience than traditional technologies offer. 

The features of the U8 Outdoor OLT include:

  • IEEE standards
  • High optical power EDFA-equipped
  • Hardened housing to protect against harsh weather conditions
  • 4 PoE+ ethernet ports

uOPG Outdoor ONU 

The UGrid Network uOPG Outdoor ONU is a type of outdoor ONU. Unlike other optical networks, the uOPG is a very cost-effective outdoor WiFi and data solution. It’s great for connecting surveillance cameras or outdoor public WiFi. 

In addition to its outdoor optical gateway function, the uOPG Outdoor ONU also has an optional embedded access point (AP) that can provide WiFi connectivity to the backhaul fast-speed optical network, making it an all-in-one solution. 

The UGrid Network uOPG Outdoor ONU includes four power over ethernet (PoE) ports that can be used for external access point connectivity and power supply. It can be powered by a CATV power supply. If the CATV infrastructure is already in place, the uOPG Outdoor ONU can work seamlessly with a coaxial cable to draw power from that source. This not only reduces the cost of the stand-alone power supply, but it also largely reduces construction complexity of the overall project. 

The features of the uOPG Outdoor ONU include:

  • IEEE & ITU standard 
  • Hardened housing to protect against harsh weather conditions
  • 4 PoE+ ethernet ports 
  • 6KV surge protection
  • WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n, 802.11 ac wave 1/wave 2, 2.4GHz/5GHz dual-band, SU-MIMO/MU-MIMO

Setting up your optical networking can be a confusing and challenging task. There are lots of things to take into consideration that can affect the efficiency and performance of your overall connection and capabilities. That’s why our team at UGrid Network is here to help you. 

Trust Our Team of Professionals at UGrid Network 

With decades of experience developing cutting-edge technologies, our team of experts has what it takes to help you find the most sensible and reliable solutions. If you’re in need of optical networking or technology connection devices, reach out to our team today!