ONTs

ONTs, or Optical Network Terminals, are customer premises devices used to terminate the optical fiber segment of a passive optical network. They convert optical signals delivered over the provider's network into electrical signals that can be used by home or business networks, providing services such as internet access, voice, and sometimes television. Many ONTs include integrated router functionality, delivering Ethernet or wireless connectivity to local devices and managing local network features.

ONTs connect to an Optical Line Terminal (OLT) at the service provider's central office via a passive optical network. The network typically employs optical splitters that distribute the signal to multiple subscribers. Downstream data from the OLT is broadcast to all ONTs on the same PON segment, while upstream data from users is time-division multiplexed back to the OLT.

Common features include one or more Ethernet ports, wireless access points, VoIP ports, and power supply options, sometimes with a battery backup unit for outages. Security and quality of service are often supported, along with remote management and configuration via standard management protocols or vendor interfaces.

ONTs are deployed in various PON architectures, including GPON and EPON, with newer generations supporting 10 Gbit/s services such as XG-PON1 or NG-PON2. Standards bodies define the interface between the ONT and the OLT, while actual hardware design and feature sets vary by vendor. Deployment considerations include placement, environmental protection for outdoor units, and coordination with the service provider for provisioning and firmware updates.