PON Link Budget Calculator

Calculate and verify optical distribution network (ODN) budget for PON systems.

PON Technology

PON Standard

Feeder Fiber (OLT to Splitter)

Feeder Length (km)

Connectors in Feeder

Splitter Configuration

First Level Split

Second Level Split

Distribution Fiber (Splitter to ONU)

Distribution Length (km)

Connectors in Distribution

Loss Parameters

Fiber Attenuation (dB/km) @1310nm typical

Connector Loss (dB)

System Margin (dB) Repair/aging margin (ITU-T G.984.2 recommends 3 dB)

PON Standard Specifications

Standard	DS/US Rate	ODN Budget	Split
GPON B+	2.5G/1.25G	28 dB	1:64
GPON C+	2.5G/1.25G	32 dB	1:128
XGS-PON N1	10G/10G	29 dB	1:64
XGS-PON N2	10G/10G	31 dB	1:128
10G-EPON	10G/10G	29 dB	1:32

PON Link Budget Design

ODN Loss Budget

ODN Loss = Feeder Loss + Splitter Loss + Distribution Loss + Connector Loss
Link Margin = Available Budget - ODN Loss - System Margin
Link margin should be positive for reliable operation

The ODN (Optical Distribution Network) must stay within the OLT/ONU power budget while maintaining margin for aging and repairs.

Design Guidelines

Include 3 dB system margin (ITU-T G.984.2)
Use max splitter loss values for planning
Consider future upgrades (XGS-PON overlay)
Account for connector mating cycles
Test every link with power meter after installation