Project Background: Flexible Fiber Access Requirements in Industrial Communication Networks

With the growing adoption of industrial automation, video surveillance, and remote device management systems, fiber optic networks have become an important communication infrastructure for industrial applications.

In industrial sites, network devices need to connect with existing PON infrastructure while also supporting field device communication, power supply, and network maintenance requirements.

Since different projects may adopt different PON access architectures, industrial network deployment requires flexible compatibility, suitable installation methods, and effective maintenance features.

This case study introduces an EPON/GPON dual-mode industrial PoE ONU solution that connects PON fiber networks with Ethernet-based field devices for flexible industrial communication deployment.

Application Challenges: Requirements in Industrial Fiber Access Networks

1. Compatibility Between Different PON Architectures

Industrial communication projects may use different PON standards, including:

• EPON (Ethernet Passive Optical Network)
• GPON (Gigabit Passive Optical Network)

ONU equipment supporting only one PON mode may limit flexibility during network expansion or infrastructure upgrades.

Therefore, dual-mode ONU technology provides more flexible options for industrial fiber access deployment.

2. Data and Power Connectivity for Field Devices

Industrial sites may include:

• IP cameras
• Remote monitoring equipment
• Ethernet terminals
• Sensors

These devices require network connectivity, and some devices also require power supply.

PoE-enabled fiber access equipment can simplify connections for remote Ethernet devices by combining communication and power delivery.

3. Remote Maintenance Requirements

Industrial network equipment is often installed in:

• Control cabinets
• Communication enclosures
• Remote stations

When devices are distributed across different locations, network administrators need visibility into:

• ONU status
• Link conditions
• Software updates
• Network configuration

Industrial ONU equipment with management functions can support easier network maintenance.

Solution: EPON/GPON Dual-Mode Industrial PoE ONU Fiber Access

The solution uses the Olycom IM-ON100P Industrial Gigabit Single-Port xPON PoE ONU as the fiber access terminal.

The device supports:

• EPON and GPON dual-mode access
• 1×PON optical port
• 1×10/100/1000Mbps Ethernet port
• IEEE 802.3af/at PoE
• DIN-Rail mounting

The PON interface connects with the optical network infrastructure, while the Ethernet interface provides connectivity for field devices.

Key Technical Features

1. EPON and GPON Dual-Mode Support for Flexible Deployment

IM-ON100P complies with:

• IEEE 802.3ah EPON standard
• ITU-T G.984 GPON standard

and supports both EPON and GPON access modes.

This allows system integrators to select suitable PON access methods according to existing network infrastructure.

2. PoE Power Supply and Watchdog Function for Remote Devices

Remote industrial devices often require both network communication and power supply.

IM-ON100P supports:

• IEEE 802.3af/at PoE
• PoE af: 15.4W
• PoE at: 30W

The product also supports PoE Watchdog functionality for PoE device connection management.

This feature is suitable for applications such as PoE cameras and remote monitoring devices.

3. Intelligent Management Features for Network Maintenance

For distributed industrial networks, IM-ON100P supports:

• ONU automatic discovery
• Link detection
• Software remote upgrade

Additional functions include:

• IGMP transparent / snooping / proxy mode
• Dynamic Bandwidth Allocation (DBA)
• VLAN configuration
• MAC address learning
• Port-based rate limiting and bandwidth control

These functions support network configuration and maintenance for industrial communication systems.

4. Designed for Industrial Installation Environments

IM-ON100P features:

• Metal enclosure
• IP40 protection
• DIN-Rail mounting

Operating conditions include:

• Working temperature: -40℃ to 75℃
• Storage temperature: -40℃ to 85℃

These features make it suitable for industrial cabinets, communication boxes, and fixed installation environments.

Application Value: Building Flexible Industrial PON Fiber Networks

By adopting an EPON/GPON dual-mode industrial PoE ONU solution, system integrators can connect existing PON fiber infrastructure with Ethernet-based field devices.

Typical applications include:

• Industrial video surveillance systems
• Process monitoring networks
• Remote communication nodes
• Fiber-to-device industrial applications

For distributed industrial communication projects, industrial ONU equipment with PON compatibility, PoE capability, and management functions provides a flexible option for building fiber-based access networks.