Finisar Launches Ethernet Passive Optical Network Stick in MSA SFP Footprint

Finisar, provider of fiber optic subsystems and components, has launched an Ethernet Passive Optical Network Stick (EPON), the first interoperable stick in a Multi-Source Agreement Small Form-factor Pluggable Optical Networking Unit.

The EPON Stick is compatible with other EPON equipment that is based on the specifications of CableLAb DOCSIS Provisioning of EPON (DPoE). Finisar had worked with CableLabs to develop the DPoE 1.0. The compatibility would enable cable operators to deliver both Ethernet and IP based services with the EPON Stick, using their DOCSIS based provisioning systems. The EPON Stick can be inserted into any SFP host, and can be used as a single demarcation system.

The EPON Stick also supports operators who do not have DOCSIS based provisioning. For instance, it can be installed with any EPON device and can be used with other DPoE products when they are set to scale up installations with DOCSIS provisioning. The single box solution uses less power and has reduced complexity. It also supports SFF-8472 digital diagnostics.