1

White Paper NOV 2021

GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

PASSIVE OPTICAL
SPLITTER
Benchmarking the
Performance of Next
Generation High Speed
Access Networks
Bernard Lee
2 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

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3 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

GR-1209 & GR-1221:

BENCHMARKING THE
PERFORMANCE OF
NEXT GENERATION
HIGH SPEED ACCESS
NETWORKS

Contents 4 Executive Summary

5 Introduction to the functionality of an Optical Splitter

6 Introduction to GR-1209 & GR-1221

7 Basics of PLC Splitter Manufacturing Procedure

8 Key steps of manufacturing an optical splitter

9 How do You Determine the Quality of a PLC Splitter

11 Outline of GR-1221 Test Standards

13 Non GR-1209 & GR-1221 Certified PLC Splitters

15 Summary

15 References

16 Biography
4 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

Executive Summary
The Asia Pacific region (APAC) leads worldwide consumption of Planar Before large-scale deployments of FTTx, most splitter modules and
Lightwave Circuit (PLC) splitter compact devices with a 68% share, other passive optical components were installed in central offices
followed by the Americas and the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and within a stable, temperature-controlled environment. When the
Africa) region. The global PLC Fiber Optic Splitter market was valued number of FTTH sites increased, the deployment of optical splitters
at $4.47 Billion USD in 2020 and is expected to grow at an average in the Open Settlement Protocol (OSP) network became a more cost-
rate of 5.28% from 2020 to 2027, according to market analysis by effective solution. In the OSP, optical splitters are commonly deployed
MarketResearch.biz. in cabinets, in aerial or underground closures, and in wall-mounted
enclosures in the basement of a building, such as a Multi Dwelling
A Passive Optical Network (PON) is a fiber optic technology utilizing Unit (MDU). Therefore, the splitters need to be able to perform both
point-to-multipoint topology and optical splitters to deliver data from optically and mechanically under a variety of conditions.
a single transmission point to multiple user endpoints. Passive refers
to the unpowered condition of the fiber and splitting/combining GPON growth is fueled by an increase in worldwide internet traffic,
components. Both fiber and splitter require no electricity to run where 80% is expected to be allocated for video consumption.
between the endpoints. Company investments in the latest variation of GPONs, called XGS-
PON, are increasing rapidly with spending up at over 500% year to year
G.984, a commonly known GPON (Gigabit-capable Passive Optical according to Optical Connection Magazine (summer 2021). XGS-PON
Network), is a standard PON published by the ITU Telecommunication is estimated to grow from USD 6.3 billion in 2020 to USD 8.3 billion by
Standardization Sector (ITU-T). It is commonly implemented within 2025, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.8%, according
the last mile of Fiber to the Premises (FTTP) services. GPONs are the to global forecasts by MarketsandMarkets™ Inc. Major factors fueling
main variation of PONs that allow for higher speeds of transmission GPON market growth include a high demand for triple and quad-play
and data reception through a single fiber. With a point-to-multipoint services, an increasing demand for high-speed broadband services,
architecture, it enables optical fiber to the home/business with access advancements in GPON technology, and 5G network deployment.
to Video, Voice, and Data and was designed to enhance existing GPONs have always been feasible for LTE macrocells, but never
copper networks. provided a clear advantage. Trials today demonstrate that GPONs
are extremely well-suited for addressing small cell challenges and
Optical splitters play an important role in Fiber to the Home (FTTH)
facilitating 5G deployment.
networks by allowing a single GPON interface to be shared among
many subscribers. Splitters do not contain any active electronics and As stated, PONs use multiple passive components that are required to
do not require any power to operate. Optical Splitters are installed work reliably within a network. This paper describes the relevance of
at each optical network between the Optical Line Terminal (OLT) applicable industry specifications and physical parameters, and how
and the Optical Network Terminals (ONTs) that the OLT serves. they relate to the performance of passive components, such as optical
GPON variation networks, such as BPON, EPON, 10G EPON, and 10G splitters, WDMs, AWGs, etc. Also discussed are the importance of
GPON technologies, all employ simple optical splitters. However, the quality, reliability, and performance in relation to industry standards
experimental WDM-GPON uses an Arrayed Wave Guide (AWG) in lieu and manufacturing practices, covered by the Telcordia GR-1209
of an optical splitter. requirements and GR-1221 testing procedures, pertaining to one of
the most important components of Next Generation Access Networks.
Optical splitters take a single fiber and refract and duplicate it multiple
times to outbound fibers. GPON deployment uses a splitting ratio of
1:32 or 1:64. Current GPON standards specify up to 128 splits on a
single GPON port. These same standards set the distance between
active devices at up to 20 kilometers.
5 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

Introduction to the Functionality of an Optical Splitter

An optical splitter is an essential component used in an FTTH GPON where a single optical input is split into multiple outputs. This enables the
deployment of a Point to Multi Point (P2MP) physical fiber network with a single OLT port serving multiple ONTs. The most common split ratios
are 1:2, 1:4, 1:8, 1:16, 1:32, and 1:64. Other split ratios are available, but they are usually custom made and command a premium.

ONT

1490nm ONT
OLT ONT
1310nm ONT

ONT

Optical fiber systems are replacing coax networks, which were used to transmit CATV analogue RF signals. Wavelength Division Multiplexer
(WDM) Couplers are used to overlay the 1550 nm analog signal from the CATV digital transmitter at the headend to the 1310 nm and 1490 nm
signal from the PON equipment.

OLT

Headend 1490nm 1310nm

RF Video OLT
CATV

Optical Optical WDM

Transmitter Amplifier
1550nm Coupler 1310nm
ONT
1490nm
1550nm

The most common splitters deployed in a GPON system are uniform power splitters with a 1xN or 2xN splitting ratio, where N is the number
of output ports. The optical input power is distributed uniformly across all output ports. Splitters with non-uniform power distribution are also
available, but these are usually custom made to user specifications.

The optical splitter in a GPON system functions to share the cost and bandwidth of the OLT among multiple ONTs, as well as reduce the number
of fiber lines required in the OSP. Splitters are deployed in a centralized splitting configuration or a cascaded splitting configuration depending
on the customer distribution. 1xN splitters are usually deployed in networks with a star configuration, while 2xN splitters are usually deployed
in networks with a ring configuration to provide physical network redundancy.

OLT
OLT
OLT

Star Configuration Ring Configuration

6 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

Introduction to GR-1209 & GR-1221

Telcordia GR1209 & GR-1221 standards outline the generic criteria

for ensuring the continuous lifetime operation of passive optical
components. These standards specify performance tests that simulate
real-life conditions. These compliance tests address three main features
of an optical splitter, which are functional design criteria, performance
criteria, and general requirements for an external plant component.

The environmental and mechanical tests, outlined in the GR-1209

standard, are designed to demonstrate the short-term operational
performance of a passive optical component. The typical lifespan of an
FTTH network is at least 25 years, therefore it is recommended to base
the environmental and mechanical test criteria on the “long-term” GR-
1221 standard.

The performance tests generate a composite picture of component

functionality under various simulated conditions. The generic criteria,
desired features, and test methods may be subject to change. Updates
are released to enhance the reliability criteria of the passive component
under test. An example is the inclusion of a fungal resistance test in the
GR-1209 standard.
7 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

Basics of the PLC Splitter Manufacturing Procedure

Among the many miniature parts that make up a passive optical PLC splitter, there are three main components: the input
and output fiber arrays, and the chip. The design and assembly of these three components is the key to producing a high-
quality PLC splitter.

End Cap boot

Outer Housing

End Cap boot

Input Fiber Array
Epoxy

Splitter Chip

Epoxy
Fiber Array V-Groove

Fiber Array Lid Ribbon Fiber

Interface Splitter Chip/

Fiber Array

Output Fiber Array

8 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

Key Steps to Manufacturing an Optical Splitter

The following section outlines the key steps to manufacturing an optical splitter, where each step requires strict Quality
Control of the environment and the equipment used, and detailed precision during alignment and assembly.

Component Preparation
The PLC circuit chip is designed and embedded on a piece of
glass wafer. Each end of the glass wafer is polished to ensure a
Step
high precision flat surface and high purity.
1
The V-grooves are then grinded onto a glass substrate. A
single fiber or multiple ribbon fiber is assembled onto the
glass substrate. The assembly is then polished.

Alignment
After preparation, the three components are set onto an
Step aligner stage. The input and output fiber arrays are set onto
2 a goniometer stage for alignment with the PLC chip. Physical
alignment between the fiber array and the chip is performed
by live monitoring the output power through the fiber array.
Epoxy is then applied to affix the fiber arrays and the chip into
their final positions.

Step Cure
3 The assembly is placed into a UV chamber where it is fully
cured at a controlled temperature.

Step
Packaging
4 The bare splitter is aligned and assembled into a metal
housing by setting fiber boots on both ends of the assembly.
A temperature cycling test is performed to evaluate the final
product condition.

Optical Testing
Step

5
Optical testing such as Insertion Loss, Uniformity, and
Polarization Dependent Loss (PDL) is performed on the
splitter to ensure compliance with the manufacturer’s optical
parameters in accordance with the GR-1209 CORE specification.
9 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

How do You Determine the Quality of a PLC Splitter

The GR-1209 standard details comprehensive optical performance criteria for a passive optical splitter. There are six
main specifications that are outlined in the standard. The following section outlines each of the specifications and their
importance towards achieving a fully functional optical splitter.

1 Optical Bandpass

For a fiber optic network, there are six nominal optical bandpass ranges which are
outlined in the diagram below:
L-band: 1565-1625nm
C-band: 1530-1565nm
S-band: 1460-1530nm A PON system transmits downstream at 1490 nm
and transmits upstream at 1310 nm. In addition,
OH-Absorption consideration must be made for any RF video overlay
2.0 dB/Km Peaks in Actual Fiber and network testing/maintenance requirements.
Attenuation Curve
RF video overlay is usually transmitted at 1550 nm.
According to the ITU L.41 recommendation, either
the 1550 nm or 1625 nm wavelength is to be used
for network testing and surveillance. With these
Rayleigh Scattering
considerations, the required optical band needs to be
0.5 dB/Km
UV Absorption determined. The standard operating wavelength for
IR Absorption a PON splitter is in the 1260 - 1650 nm range, which
0.2 dB/Km
covers most of the optical bands.
800 900 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400 1500 1600

Wavelength (nm)

2 Optical Insertion Loss

The optical splitter is the component with the largest attenuation in a PON system. The insertion loss is the fraction of power transferred from
the input port to the output port. In order to conserve power, the insertion loss from the splitter needs to be minimized. Based on the GR-1209
standard, the maximum allowable insertion loss for an optical splitter used in a PON system can be determined using the calculations outlined
below. These calculations do not include loss from connectors.

Table 2
N = number of output ports
1xN Optical Splitter 0.8 + 3.4 log2N

2xN Optical Splitter 1.0 + 3.4 log2N

10 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

3 Optical Return Loss

Optical Return Loss is the fraction of power transferred from one input or output port back to itself. A high return loss reduces the power
reflected back to the transmitting port, thus minimizing the noise that may result in a system power penalty.

4 Uniformity

Uniformity is the maximum insertion loss value between one input port and any two output ports or between two input ports and one output
port. This requirement simplifies PON design by ensuring equivalent transmission power at each splitter output port. However, custom optical
splitters with non-uniform coupling ratios can be manufactured for specific network deployment, where the uniformity criterion is not applicable.
The usage of a non-uniform splitter in a PON increases the complexity of testing, design, and maintenance, while reducing network flexibility.

5 Directivity

Uniformity is the maximum insertion loss value between one input port and any two output ports or between two input ports and one output
port. This requirement simplifies PON design by ensuring equivalent transmission power at each splitter output port. However, custom optical
splitters with non-uniform coupling ratios can be manufactured for specific network deployment, where the uniformity criterion is not applicable.
The usage of a non-uniform splitter in a PON increases the complexity of testing, design, and maintenance, while reducing network flexibility.

6 Testing Method

The details of the optical performance criteria critical to a PON system are outlined below.

Optical bandpass can be tested by connecting the optical splitter to an optical spectrum analyzer
equipped with a high-powered light source with a central wavelength at the required bandpass. The
Optical Bandpass attenuation across the required bandpass must meet the splitter requirements. A wideband component
test system that uses a tunable laser, high-dynamic range detectors, and intelligent software can also
accomplish this testing with high speed and accuracy.

Insertion loss is tested by using a stable light source and power meter. The reference power level
Insertion Loss is obtained for each of the output ports of the optical splitter are measured. If using a wideband
component test system the IL can be measured during the equipment sweeping.

Return loss is tested by using a return loss meter. Depending on the type of equipment used, the process
can be different. If using Optical Continuous Wavelength Reflectometry Technology, index matching gel
Return Loss is typically used on the far end to isolate the splitter. With the emergence of technology, some Optical
Time Domain Reflectometry equipment can select the area of interest to extract the RL at the splitter.

Uniformity of the optical splitter is determined by referring to the results from the insertion loss
Uniformity test to ensure that the difference between the highest loss and the lowest loss is within the acceptable
uniformity value.

Directivity is measured in a similar manner to the insertion loss test. However, the light source is
Directivity connected to the input port and the power meter is also connected to another input port. It can be
considered to be the light returning into another input port other than where the source is connected.
Optical splitters deployed for a WDM PON system have additional performance criteria such as Polarization
Dependent Wavelength (PDW) and Temperature Effects on DWDM, but these are not be covered in this paper.
11 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

Outline of GR-1221 Test Standards

The GR-1221 standard outlines the environmental and mechanical tests designed to ensure long term operational
performance. The following section provides an overview of each of the test requirements and the importance of compliance.

Mechanical Integrity
The Mechanical Integrity category consists of three main components which are: Mechanical Shock, Vibration and Thermal Shock. These
tests are designed to ensure optical splitter performance when subjected to normal conditions during storage, transportation, and installation.

Endurance
The Endurance category consists of five main components which are: High Temperature Storage (Dry), High Temperature Storage (Damp),
Low Temperature Storage, Temperature Cycling and Cyclic Moisture Resistance. These tests are designed to simulate the accelerated ag-
ing of the optical splitter to predict its estimated lifetime. Moisture, coupled with varying temperature levels, has a degradative effect on the
components within the optical splitter; especially the epoxy, which provides structural integrity to the PLC, optical fiber, and the splitter housing.

Testing Method The details of the optical performance criteria critical to a PON system are outlined below.

Mechanical Shock testing is performed to verify that the optical splitters are not
damaged when they are dropped or knocked. The splitter is mounted rigidly to
a fixture 1.8 m high and dropped 8 times. This test cycle is repeated 5 times.
Mechanical Shock

Vibration testing is performed by mounting the product to a “shaker.” The test

reveals whether high frequencies of vibration (i.e. vibrational stress) induce
performance changes in the optical splitter. The “shaker” runs with a sinusoidal
Vibration vibration at frequencies of 10 to 2000 Hz, with a 1.52 mm amplitude, for 12
cycles, where each cycle ranges from 10 to 2000 Hz and back in 20 minutes. This
test is performed on each of three perpendicular axes.

Thermal Shock testing is performed in a temperature chamber to verify that

the optical splitters are not structurally compromised when transported from
one temperature extreme to another. The splitter is exposed to a temperature of
Thermal Shock 100°C for 30 minutes, at which point the temperature is dropped to 0°C.
12 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

The splitter is stored within a temperature chamber heated to 85°C with

< 40% RH for 2000 hours for qualification purposes and up to 5000 hours for
an additional performance interval. Interval testing of the optical splitter is
High Temperature performed at 168, 500, 1000, 2000, and 5000 hour intervals. Insertion loss is
Storage (Dry) monitored at all ports.

The splitter is stored within a temperature chamber heated to 75°C with

< 90% RH for 2000 hours for qualification purposes and up to 5000 hours for
an additional performance interval. Interval testing of the optical splitter is
High Temperature performed at 100, 168, 500, 1000, 2000, and 5000 hour intervals. Insertion loss
Storage (Damp) is monitored at all ports.

The splitter is stored within a temperature chamber cooled to -40°C for 2000
hours for qualification purposes and up to 5000 hours for an additional
performance interval. Interval testing of the optical splitter is performed at 100,
Low Temperature 168, 500, 1000, 2000, and 5000 hour intervals. The strength of the epoxy joints is
Storage tested at 2000 and 5000 hours.

The splitter is stored within a temperature chamber where the temperature is

cycled between the extremes, with a dwell time of at least 15 minutes at each of
Temperature the extremes. The temperature ranges are:
CO-based splitters: -40°C to 70°C. Uncontrolled environments: 40°C to 85°C.
Cycling The number of temperature cycles required are:
CO-based splitters: 100 cycles for qualification, 500 for performance
evaluation.
Uncontrolled environments: 500 cycles for qualification, 1000 for performance
evaluation.

The splitter is stored within

a temperature chamber with 100

Cyclic Moisture the following cycle profile:

85 - 95% RH at 75°C, RH
75
50
Resistance uncontrolled at 25°C and 25
-40°C. 5 complete cycles are
0
completed (each complete
cycle has 5 sub-cycles). -40
-50 Time (Hours)
13 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

Non GR-1209 & GR-1221 Certified PLC Splitters

The adoption of the GR-1209 and GR-1221 standards assures the performance and long-term reliability of products. However,
many PLC splitter manufacturers do not practice a high level of quality control throughout the manufacturing process and
are thus unable to produce a compliant product. These manufacturers may be selling their products on the market claiming a
similar level of quality to those who have taken the effort and due diligence to comply with the stringent standards.

The failure of an optical splitter is catastrophic to a PON system because multiple customer connections may be affected.
Restoration requires re-splicing and/or re-termination of multiple fibers, especially when dealing with high split ratio
splitters. This increases the cost and time to restore. This section provides examples of how non-compliant products have
failed and affected network service.

Damaged Waveguide
Damage to the waveguide is usually caused by using a
waveguide mask with imperfections. This area on the
waveguide increases the light scattering effect, thus
increasing the return loss and attenuation.

Broken Fiber in Array

A broken fiber within the fiber array V-groove is usually
caused by imperfect fiber stripping, cleaning, and
cleaving of the ribbon fiber during the manufacturing
process. A small scratch or crack on the optical fiber
can become a stress point during the resin curing
process or during prolonged usage in conditions with
temperature fluctuations and/or vibrations.
14 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

Delamination
A lid is fastened to the fiber array V-groove by an
adhesive that holds the fibers in place. Delamination
may occur when the quality of the adhesive is poor
or when a mismatch occurs between the glass array
material and the adhesive used. Delamination will
increase over time and cause the fibers to move out
of the V-groove array. This may pinch the fibers and
increase insertion loss.

Ribbon Fiber Coating

The ribbon fiber used in manufacturing optical splitters
is crucial towards producing a high-quality product.
In this example, a low-quality ribbon fiber, with a low
quality and non-uniform outer coating matrix, was
used. As a result, the coating matrix has peeled off and
exposed the 250 µm fiber beneath. The risk of breakage
is increased with exposed fibers.

Chip and Fiber Array Alignment

Misalignment of the PLC splitter chip and the fiber
array may occur due to poor manufacturing precision,
the use of low-quality epoxy, and/or a suboptimal
curing process. Although not visibly evident, minute
changes in the positional alignment may affect
optical parameters, resulting in increased attenuation
and susceptibility to failure from mechanical and
environmental stressors.

Unsecured Fiber Boot

In this example, the 900 µm fiber and tubing have
become detached from the splitter housing. This can
result from failures associated with the fiber end boot,
fiber array lid, epoxy quality, and curing process. The
now exposed 250 µm fiber is at an increased risk of
breakage.
15 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

Summary
As internet traffic grows the expectations and the busines plans for every deployment becoming highly custom and unique.Knowing the advantages
and disadvantages of each architecture helps in the deployment selection process. There are many technologies where fiber optic splitters are
utilized. Passive optical splitters became an integral part of PON. GPON provide a solution that minimizes the physical footprint, increases distances
and bandwidth, reduces latency and improves network security. The splitters decrease physical fiber usage making the network deployment and
maintenance cost effective. A single fiber in today’s GPON can feed up to 128 ports that equates to 128 users reducing the strains on the fiber back
bone. Choosing the right fiber optic splitters help increase the efficiency of the optical infrastructure. Making an educated decision regarding initial
product selection is the key to developing a network architecture that will last well into future bandwidth demands.

Optical splitter quality and performance is guaranteed not only by using high quality components and stringent manufacturing processes and
equipment, but also by adhering to a successful Quality Assurance program. Many factors need to be considered beyond insertion loss and
return loss performance. The materials selected need to be complementary with one another to ensure proper cohesion during assembly and
curing. The epoxy, which binds the fiber to the three main components of the splitter to ensure proper adhesion of every component, is one
of the most important elements. The epoxy must be injected without introducing any inconsistencies or trapped air bubbles and needs to be
cured at the proper temperature for the proper duration of time.

In conclusion, with PON system architecture growing in popularity it is important to maintain the integrity, performance, and reliability deployed
optical components. Adherence to the GR-1209 CORE and GR-1221 CORE test standards provides assurances to Internet Service Providers that
their deployed networks will withstand the test of time.

References
1. Telcordia GR-1209-CORE, “Generic Requirements for Passive Optical Components”, Issue 4, Telcordia Technologies, September
2010

2. Telcordia GR-1221-CORE, “Generic Reliability Assurance Requirements for Passive Optical Components”, Issue 3, Telcordia
Technologies, September 20100

3. Optical Connection Magazine, Summer Issue 2021

16 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS

Biography

Dr. Bernard Lee is currently the Director of Technology & Innovation at SENKO Advanced Components. He started his
career in optical communications when he was a Senior Research Office for the European Union IST project known
as DAVID in 2000. In 2003, he joined Telekom Malaysia R&D where he has held various technical and management
positions there including the Head of Photonic Network Research and also Head of Innovation and Communications.
Bernard then joined the parent company, Telekom Malaysia (TM) in 2010 as the Assistant General Manager at the
Group Business Strategy Division. Bernard is also an Expert at the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC),
a Chartered Engineer (CEng) accredited by the Engineering Council of UK, a Professional Engineer (PEng) registered
with the Board of Engineers Malaysia and also a BICSI Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD).

Andrei Vankov, is an Application Engineer at SENKO Advanced Components. He received his BS from Thomas Edison
State College and his MSEE from Pennsylvania State University. He began his career in 1993 at Sumitomo Electric
Lightwave Corp as a Fiber Optic Manufacturing Engineer where he worked on active and passive components using
Kaizen methods in Yokohama, Japan. As a Senior Optical Design Engineer in Franklin, MA (founded as Advanced Inter-
connect) Andrei Vankov developed various passive optical components and packaging integration to meet Telcordia in-
dustry standards. He designed optical interconnects, including optical backplanes (MTP, HBMT, PHD, OGI), and a fiber
optic SMPTE compatible Broadcast Connector for HD applications. In 2013-2020 Andrei worked at Nokia division Radio
Frequency Systems (RFS) where he provided leadership for an LTE RAN launch project team. Andrei holds several US
and European Patents in fiber optics interconnect technology.

Emmanuel Kolczynski, is an Application Engineering Manager at SENKO Advanced Components. He is from Ottawa,
Canada where he attended Carleton University and completed his Bachelor of Engineering, with a focus in Electrical.
He began his fiber optic career with JGR Optics Inc. in 2013 as an Application Engineer, helping companies globally
with production processes and various testing needs. He eventually became a Product Line Manager to help guide the
company business direction by making strategic decisions based on market trends and planning a future road map.
At SENKO, Emmanuel applies his fiber optic knowledge and expertise to help with the design, testing, and release of
critical interconnect technology for use in a constantly evolving market. He is currently a member of the Telecommu-
nications Industry Association (TIA) to follow the latest in industry standardizations and developments. Emmanuel has
a passion for technology and being able to reach the fullest potential through constant innovation and developments.
17 GR-1209 & GR-1221: BENCHMARKING THE PERFORMANCE OF NEXT GENERATION HIGH SPEED ACCESS NETWORKS