An optical network terminal (ONT), also called an optical network unit (ONU), converts light signals from fiber-optic Ethernet into electrical signals for copper UTP cabling at the customer premises. section 16.2.3
Use an ONT when:
- Fiber-optic cabling connects the premises to an internet service provider. section 16.2.3
- The local network uses copper UTP rather than a direct optical connection. section 16.2.3
- The deployment is a SOHO or enterprise fiber connection, including fiber-to-the-home service. section 16.2.3 section 16.4
Typical fiber connection
A fiber link enters a home or business, the ONT converts its optical signals to electrical Ethernet signals, and copper UTP connects the ONT to the local network. section 16.2.3
Figure 16.10 A SOHO network connecting to the internet via fiber-optic Ethernet. An ONT/ONU converts between light and electrical signals.
View the SOHO topology showing the ONT/ONU between the fiber-optic internet connection and local electrical networking. section 16.2.3
