ITUPublications International Telecommunication Union

Recommendations Standardization Sector

Recommendation
ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

SERIES G: Transmission systems and media, digital

systems and networks
Digital sections and digital line system – Optical line systems
for local and access networks

10-Gigabit-capable passive optical networks

(XG-PON): Physical media dependent (PMD)
layer specification
 ITU-T G-SERIES RECOMMENDATIONS
TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS AND MEDIA, DIGITAL SYSTEMS AND NETWORKS

INTERNATIONAL TELEPHONE CONNECTIONS AND CIRCUITS G.100–G.199

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS COMMON TO ALL ANALOGUE CARRIER-TRANSMISSION G.200–G.299
SYSTEMS
INDIVIDUAL CHARACTERISTICS OF INTERNATIONAL CARRIER TELEPHONE SYSTEMS ON G.300–G.399
METALLIC LINES
GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS OF INTERNATIONAL CARRIER TELEPHONE SYSTEMS ON G.400–G.449
RADIO-RELAY OR SATELLITE LINKS AND INTERCONNECTION WITH METALLIC LINES
COORDINATION OF RADIOTELEPHONY AND LINE TELEPHONY G.450–G.499
TRANSMISSION MEDIA AND OPTICAL SYSTEMS CHARACTERISTICS G.600–G.699
DIGITAL TERMINAL EQUIPMENTS G.700–G.799
DIGITAL NETWORKS G.800–G.899
DIGITAL SECTIONS AND DIGITAL LINE SYSTEM G.900–G.999
General G.900–G.909
Parameters for optical fibre cable systems G.910–G.919
Digital sections at hierarchical bit rates based on a bit rate of 2048 kbit/s G.920–G.929
Digital line transmission systems on cable at non-hierarchical bit rates G.930–G.939
Digital line systems provided by FDM transmission bearers G.940–G.949
Digital line systems G.950–G.959
Digital section and digital transmission systems for customer access to ISDN G.960–G.969
Optical fibre submarine cable systems G.970–G.979
Optical line systems for local and access networks G.980–G.989
Metallic access networks G.990–G.999
MULTIMEDIA QUALITY OF SERVICE AND PERFORMANCE – GENERIC AND USER-RELATED G.1000–G.1999
ASPECTS
TRANSMISSION MEDIA CHARACTERISTICS G.6000–G.6999
DATA OVER TRANSPORT – GENERIC ASPECTS G.7000–G.7999
PACKET OVER TRANSPORT ASPECTS G.8000–G.8999
ACCESS NETWORKS G.9000–G.9999

For further details, please refer to the list of ITU-T Recommendations.

 Recommendation ITU-T G.987.2

10-Gigabit-capable passive optical networks (XG-PON): Physical media

dependent (PMD) layer specification

Summary
Recommendation ITU-T G.987.2 describes the physical layer requirements and specifications for the
XG-PON physical media dependent (PMD) layer. Wavelength enhancement bands are described in
Recommendation ITU-T G.987.1. The transmission convergence (TC) layer is described in
Recommendation ITU-T G.987.3. The optical network unit (ONU) management and control interface
(OMCI) specifications are described in Recommendation ITU-T G.988.
Recommendation ITU-T G.987.2 describes a flexible optical fibre access network capable of supporting
the bandwidth requirements of business and residential services. The G.987 series of standards allows
for multiple upstream and downstream line rates. This Recommendation currently defines one type of
10-Gigabit-capable passive optical network (XG-PON) system with an asymmetric nominal line rate of
9.95328 Gbit/s in the downstream direction and 2.48832 Gbit/s in the upstream direction.
This Recommendation describes a system that represents an evolutionary development from the
systems described in the ITU-T G.984 series. To the greatest extent possible, this Recommendation
maintains the requirements of Recommendation ITU-T G.984.1 to ensure maximal continuity with
existing systems and optical fibre infrastructure.
Amendment 2 continues the maintenance and evolution of physical media dependent (PMD) layer
specifications for XG-PON as defined in this Recommendation. It includes technical updates and
corrections for changing references to XG-PON1 to XG-PON, replacing the mask of the eye diagram
for the ONU transmitter, updating the DD40 downstream specification, correcting the X/S tolerance
mask for ONU and updating the X/S tolerance mask for the optical trunk line (OLT).
This revision adds a new annex specifying out-of-band noise limits on XG-PON ONUs to reduce the
impact on other systems coexisting on the same PON.
History
Edition Recommendation Approval Study Group Unique ID*
1.0 ITU-T G.987.2 2010-01-13 15 11.1002/1000/10411
2.0 ITU-T G.987.2 2010-10-07 15 11.1002/1000/10889
2.1 ITU-T G.987.2 (2010) Amd. 1 2012-02-13 15 11.1002/1000/11499
3.0 ITU-T G.987.2 2016-02-26 15 11.1002/1000/12832
3.1 ITU-T G.987.2 (2016) Amd. 1 2017-08-13 15 11.1002/1000/13290
3.2 ITU-T G.987.2 (2016) Amd. 2 2020-10-29 15 11.1002/1000/14491
4.0 ITU-T G.987.2 2023-02-22 15 11.1002/1000/15124
Keywords
10-Gigabit-capable passive optical network, FTTx network, OLT, ONU, optic, optical network
terminal (ONT), passive optical network (PON), physical layer interfaces, physical layer requirements,
physical layer specification, PMD, XG-PON.

* To access the Recommendation, type the URL http://handle.itu.int/ in the address field of your web
browser, followed by the Recommendation's unique ID. For example, http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/1000/11830-en.

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) i

 FOREWORD
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations specialized agency in the field of
telecommunications, information and communication technologies (ICTs). The ITU Telecommunication
Standardization Sector (ITU-T) is a permanent organ of ITU. ITU-T is responsible for studying technical,
operating and tariff questions and issuing Recommendations on them with a view to standardizing
telecommunications on a worldwide basis.
The World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA), which meets every four years, establishes
the topics for study by the ITU-T study groups which, in turn, produce Recommendations on these topics.
The approval of ITU-T Recommendations is covered by the procedure laid down in WTSA Resolution 1.
In some areas of information technology which fall within ITU-T's purview, the necessary standards are
prepared on a collaborative basis with ISO and IEC.

NOTE
In this Recommendation, the expression "Administration" is used for conciseness to indicate both a
telecommunication administration and a recognized operating agency.
Compliance with this Recommendation is voluntary. However, the Recommendation may contain certain
mandatory provisions (to ensure, e.g., interoperability or applicability) and compliance with the
Recommendation is achieved when all of these mandatory provisions are met. The words "shall" or some other
obligatory language such as "must" and the negative equivalents are used to express requirements. The use of
such words does not suggest that compliance with the Recommendation is required of any party.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

ITU draws attention to the possibility that the practice or implementation of this Recommendation may involve
the use of a claimed Intellectual Property Right. ITU takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or
applicability of claimed Intellectual Property Rights, whether asserted by ITU members or others outside of
the Recommendation development process.
As of the date of approval of this Recommendation, ITU had not received notice of intellectual property,
protected by patents/software copyrights, which may be required to implement this Recommendation.
However, implementers are cautioned that this may not represent the latest information and are therefore
strongly urged to consult the appropriate ITU-T databases available via the ITU-T website at
http://www.itu.int/ITU-T/ipr/.

© ITU 2023
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, by any means whatsoever, without the prior
written permission of ITU.

ii Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

 Table of Contents
Page
1 Scope .................................................................................................................................. 1
2 References.......................................................................................................................... 1
3 Definitions ......................................................................................................................... 2
3.1 Terms defined elsewhere ................................................................................... 2
3.2 Terms defined in this Recommendation ........................................................... 2
4 Abbreviations and acronyms ............................................................................................ 2
5 Conventions ....................................................................................................................... 3
6 Architecture of the optical access network ...................................................................... 3
6.1 Classes for optical path loss ............................................................................... 4
6.2 Categories for fibre differential distance .......................................................... 4
7 Services .............................................................................................................................. 5
8 User-network interface and service node interface ......................................................... 5
9 Optical network requirements .......................................................................................... 5
9.1 Layered structure of XG-PON optical network ................................................ 5
9.2 Physical media dependent layer requirements for the XG-PON ..................... 5
10 X/S tolerance masks .......................................................................................................... 17
10.1 X/S tolerance mask for ONU ............................................................................. 17
10.2 X/S tolerance mask for OLT .............................................................................. 18
11 Upstream physical layer overhead ................................................................................... 19
Annex A – ONU out-of-band power spectral density ................................................................ 20
Appendix I – Examples of wavelength allocation for XG-PON, G-PON and video
distribution services........................................................................................................... 22
Appendix II – Physical layer measurements required to support optical layer supervision .... 23
Appendix III – Allocation of the physical layer overhead time ................................................. 24
Appendix IV – Jitter budget specifications ................................................................................. 27
IV.1 The concept of jitter budget ............................................................................... 27
IV.2 Definition of test points...................................................................................... 28
IV.3 Jitter budget specification for XG-PON............................................................ 29
IV.4 Jitter measurements for compliance to budget ................................................. 29
Appendix V – Measurement of burst mode acquisition time and burst mode eye opening
at OLT ................................................................................................................................ 31
Bibliography .................................................................................................................................. 34

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) iii

Recommendation ITU-T G.987.2

10-Gigabit-capable passive optical networks (XG-PON): Physical media

dependent (PMD) layer specification

1 Scope
This Recommendation pertains to flexible access networks using optical fibre technology. The focus
is primarily on a network supporting services with bandwidth requirements ranging from th ose of
voice services to data services running at up to 10 Gbit/s. Also included are broadcast services.
This Recommendation describes characteristics of the physical medium dependent (PMD) layer of
an optical access network (OAN) with the capability of transporting various services between the
user-network interface and the service node interface.
The OAN described in this Recommendation enables the network operator to provide a flexible
upgrade to meet future customer requirements, in particular, in the area of the optical distribution
network (ODN). The ODN considered is based on a point-to-multipoint tree and branch option.

2 References
The following ITU-T Recommendations and other references contain provisions which, through
reference in this text, constitute provisions of this Recommendation. At the time of publication, the
editions indicated were valid. All Recommendations and other references are subject to revision;
users of this Recommendation are therefore encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the
most recent edition of the Recommendations and other references listed below. A list of the currently
valid ITU-T Recommendations is regularly published. The reference to a document within this
Recommendation does not give it, as a stand-alone document, the status of a Recommendation.
[ITU-T G.652] Recommendation ITU-T G.652 (2016), Characteristics of a single-mode
optical fibre and cable.
[ITU-T G.657] Recommendation ITU-T G.657 (2016), Characteristics of a bending loss
insensitive single-mode optical fibre and cable.
[ITU-T G.783] Recommendation ITU-T G.783 (2006), Characteristics of synchronous
digital hierarchy (SDH) equipment functional blocks.
[ITU-T G.825] Recommendation ITU-T G.825 (2000), The control of jitter and wander
within digital networks which are based on the synchronous digital hierarchy
(SDH).
[ITU-T G.957] Recommendation ITU-T G.957 (2006), Optical interfaces for equipments and
systems relating to the synchronous digital hierarchy.
[ITU-T G.959.1] Recommendation ITU-T G.959.1 (2016), Optical transport network physical
layer interfaces.
[ITU-T G.982] Recommendation ITU-T G.982 (1996), Optical access networks to support
services up to the ISDN primary rate or equivalent bit rates.
[ITU-T G.984.1] Recommendation ITU-T G.984.1 (2008), Gigabit-capable passive optical
networks (GPON): General characteristics.
[ITU-T G.984.2] Recommendation ITU-T G.984.2 (2003, as amended), Gigabit-capable
passive optical networks (G-PON): Physical media dependent (PMD) layer
specification.

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 1

[ITU-T G.987] Recommendation ITU-T G.987 (2012), 10-Gigabit-capable passive optical
network (XG-PON) systems: Definitions, abbreviations and acronyms.
[ITU-T G.987.1] Recommendation ITU-T G.987.1 (2010), 10 Gigabit-capable passive optical
network (XG-PON): General requirements.
[ITU-T G.987.3] Recommendation ITU-T G.987.3 (2014), 10-Gigabit-capable passive optical
networks (XG-PON): Transmission convergence (TC) layer specification.
[ITU-T G.988] Recommendation ITU-T G.988 (2022), ONU management and control
interface (OMCI) specification.
[ITU-T L.313] Recommendation ITU-T L.313 (2007), Optical fibre cable maintenance
criteria for in-service fibre testing in access networks.

3 Definitions

3.1 Terms defined elsewhere

This Recommendation uses the following terms defined elsewhere:
See clause 3 of [ITU-T G.987].

3.2 Terms defined in this Recommendation

This Recommendation defines the following term:
3.2.1 out-of-band power spectral density (OOB-PSD): The optical power spectral density
outside the operating wavelength band measured at the appropriate reference point (S/R for
downstream direction, R/S for upstream direction).
NOTE – Measurements are averaged over the time periods when the transmitter is enabled, or when the
transmitter is not enabled but the allocated transient time has not yet elapsed. The OOB-PSD is expressed as
the total integrated power within a sliding spectral window of known width.

4 Abbreviations and acronyms

See clause 4 of [ITU-T G.987].

5 Conventions
See clause 5 of [ITU-T G.987].

6 Architecture of the optical access network

See [ITU-T G.984.1]. For convenience, Figure 1 of [ITU-T G.984.2] is reproduced below.

2 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

 Figure 6-1 – Generic physical configuration of the optical
distribution network (reproduced from Figure 1 of [ITU-T G.984.2])

The following reference points are defined in Figure 6-1:

− S: Point on the optical fibre just after the optical trunk line (OLT)[Downstream]/optical
network unit (ONU)[Upstream] optical connection point (i.e., optical connector or optical
splice).
− R: Point on the optical fibre just before the ONU[Downstream]/OLT[Upstream] optical
connection point (i.e., optical connector or optical splice).
− S/R, R/S: Combination of points S and R existing simultaneously in a single fibre, when
operating in bidirectional mode.
− Oru, Ord: Optical interface at the reference point R/S between the ONU and the ODN for the
upstream and downstream directions, respectively.
− Olu, Old: Optical interfaces at the reference point S/R between the OLT and the ODN for the
upstream and downstream directions, respectively.
The two directions for optical transmission in the ODN are identified as follows:
− downstream direction for signals travelling from the OLT to the ONU(s), and
− upstream direction for signals travelling from the ONU(s) to the OLT.
Transmission in downstream and upstream directions takes place on the same fibre and components
(duplex/diplex configuration).

6.1 Classes for optical path loss

Recommended classes for optical path loss are shown in Table 6-1.

Table 6-1 – Classes for optical path loss defined in this Recommendation
Nominal1 class Nominal2 class Extended1 class Extended2 class
(N1 class) (N2 class) (E1 class) (E2 class)
Minimum loss 14 dB 16 dB 18 dB 20 dB
Maximum loss 29 dB 31 dB 33 dB 35 dB

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 3

For single-star architectures, the absence of optical branching devices may result in optical path losses
of less than 5 dB. In such a case, the ODN must contain additional optical attenuators guaranteeing
minimum channel insertion loss for the given class to prevent potential damage to receivers.

6.2 Categories for fibre differential distance

Categories for fibre differential distance
Recommended categories for fibre differential distance (DD) are shown in Table 6-2.

Table 6-2 – Categories for fibre differential distance defined in G.987.2

DD20 DD40
Maximum differential distance 20 km 40 km

For DD40 ODNs, due to the intrinsic wavelength dependence of the optical fibre loss [ITU-T G.652],
the fibre attenuation coefficient at the downstream wavelength (1577 nm) is lower than that at the
upstream wavelength (1270 nm) resulting in a downstream loss margin. This margin is expected to
be at least 1 dB for a fibre length greater than 20 km. The additional maximum optical path penalty
allowed for DD40 is therefore fully compensated by the lower fibre loss at the downstream
wavelength. Thus, the other PMD values (except optical path penalty (OPP)) for DD40 do not change
from those PMD values specified for DD20.
In DD40 deployments, the actual fibre cable loss characteristics should be assessed, to make sure
there is the required extra margin of 1dB with respect to the maximum OPL class loss at the
downstream wavelength for ODN branches with a maximum OLT-ONU fibre length greater than
20 km.

7 Services
See clause 7 of [ITU-T G.987.1].

8 User-network interface and service node interface

See Appendix I of [ITU-T G.987.1].

9 Optical network requirements

9.1 Layered structure of XG-PON optical network

See clause 5.2.5 of [ITU-T G.987.1].

9.2 Physical media dependent layer requirements for the XG-PON

All parameters are specified as follows, and are in accordance with Tables 9-2 to 9-4.
There are two ONU types, based on different ONU receiver sensitivity.
All parameter values specified are worst-case values, to be met over the range of standard operating
conditions (i.e., temperature and humidity), and they include ageing effects. The parameters are
specified relative to an optical section design objective of a bit error ratio (BER) not worse than the
values specified in Table 9-3 and Table 9-4, for the extreme case of optical path attenuation and
dispersion conditions.
In particular, the values given in Table 9-3 and Table 9-4 are valid for the cases of an enhancement
band, as described in clause 10.

4 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

9.2.1 Line rate
The transmission line rate is a multiple of 8 kHz. The target standardized 10-gigabit-capable passive
optical network (XG-PON) system supports the following variant: XG-PON with a downstream line
rate of 9.95328 Gbit/s and an upstream line rate of 2.48832 Gbit/s.
Parameters to be defined are categorized by downstream and upstream, and the nominal line rate as
shown in Table 9-1.

Table 9-1 – Relation between parameter categories and tables

Variant Transmission direction Nominal line rate [Gbit/s] Reference table
Downstream 9.95328 Table 9-3
XG-PON
Upstream 2.48832 Table 9-4

9.2.1.1 Downstream accuracy

When the optical trunk line (OLT) and the end office are in their normal operating state, the OLT is
typically traceable to a Stratum-1 reference (accuracy of 1 × 10 −11). When the OLT is in its free-
running mode, the accuracy of the downstream signal is at least that of a Stratum-4 clock
(3.2 × 10−5). OLTs intended for timing-critical applications such as mobile backhaul may require
stratum-3 quality in free-running mode.
NOTE – The OLT may derive its timing from either a dedicated timing signal source or from a synchronous
data interface (line timing). A packet-based timing source may also be used.
9.2.1.2 Upstream accuracy
When in one of its operating states and granted an allocation, the ONU shall transmit its signal with
frequency accuracy equal to that of the received downstream signal.
9.2.2 Forward error correction code selection for XG-PON
See clause 10.3 of [ITU-T G.987.3].
9.2.3 Physical media and transmission method
9.2.3.1 Transmission medium
This Recommendation is based on the fibre described in [ITU-T G.652]. Other fibre types may be
compatible with this Recommendation, e.g., [ITU-T G.657], used, for example, for in-building
cabling, drop section.
9.2.3.2 Transmission direction
The signal is transmitted both upstream and downstream through the transmission medium.
9.2.3.3 Transmission methodology
Bidirectional transmission is accomplished by use of wavelength division multiplexing (WDM)
technique on a single fibre.
9.2.4 Line code
The scrambling method is defined in [ITU-T G.987.3].
The convention used for optical logic levels is:
− high level of light emission for a binary ONE;
− low level of light emission for a binary ZERO.

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 5

9.2.4.1 Downstream
Downstream line coding for XG-PON: NRZ.
9.2.4.2 Upstream
Upstream line coding for XG-PON: NRZ.
9.2.5 Operating wavelength
9.2.5.1 Downstream wavelength allocation
The operating wavelength range for XG-PON for the downstream direction is defined in Table 9-3.
9.2.5.2 Upstream wavelength allocation
The operating wavelength range for XG-PON for the upstream direction is defined in Table 9-4.
9.2.6 XG-PON PMD parameters
9.2.6.1 XG-PON compatible ODN
XG-PON shall operate over an ODN whose parameters are described by Table 9-2.

Table 9-2 – Physical parameters of a simple ODN (ODS)

Item Unit Specification
Fibre type (Note) – [ITU-T G.652], or compatible
N1 class: 14 – 29
N2 class: 16 – 31
Attenuation range (as defined in clause 6.1) dB
E1 class: 18 – 33
E2 class: 20 – 35
Maximum fibre distance between DD20: 20
km
S/R and R/S points DD40: 40
Minimum fibre distance between
km 0
S/R and R/S points
Bidirectional transmission – 1-fibre WDM
Maintenance wavelength nm See [ITU-T L.313]
NOTE – See clause 9.2.3.1

9.2.6.2 Optical interface parameters of 9.95328 Gbit/s downstream direction

Table 9-3 – Optical interface parameters of 9.95328 Gbit/s downstream direction

Item Unit Value
OLT transmitter (optical interface Old)
Nominal line rate Gbit/s 9.95328
Operating wavelength (Note 1) nm 1575 – 1580
Line code – NRZ
Mask of the transmitter eye diagram – see clause 9.2.7.6.1
Maximum reflectance at S/R, measured at dB NA
transmitter wavelength
Minimum optical return loss (ORL) of dB more than 32
ODN at Olu and Old (Notes 2 and 3)

6 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

 Table 9-3 – Optical interface parameters of 9.95328 Gbit/s downstream direction
Item Unit Value
ODN Class N1 N2 E1 E2
N2a N2b E2a E2b
Mean launched power MIN dBm +2.0 +4.0 +10.5 +6 +8 +14.5
Mean launched power MAX dBm +6.0 +8.0 +12.5 +10 +12 +16.5
Launched optical power without input to dBm NA
the transmitter
Minimum extinction ratio dB 8.2
Transmitter tolerance to reflected optical dB more than –15
power (Note 7)
Dispersion Range ps/nm 0-400 (DD20)
0-800 (DD40)
Minimum side-mode-suppression ratio dB 30
Maximum differential optical path loss dB 15
Jitter generation – see clause 9.2.9.7.3
ONU receiver (optical interface Ord)
Maximum OPP (Note 6, Note 9) dB 1.0 (DD20)
2.0 (DD40)
Maximum reflectance at R/S, measured at dB less than –20
receiver wavelength
BER reference level – 10−3 (Note 4)
ODN Class N1 N2 E1 E2
N2a N2b E2a E2b
Minimum sensitivity at BER reference dBm –28.0 –28.0 –21.5 –28.0 –28.0 –21.5
level (Note 5)
Minimum overload at BER reference dBm –8.0 –8.0 –3.5 –8.0 –8.0 –3.5
level
Consecutive identical digit immunity bit more than 72
Jitter tolerance – see clause 9.2.9.7.2
Receiver tolerance to reflected optical dB less than 10
power (Note 8)
NOTE 1 – In the case of outdoor OLT deployment, it is allowed for the operating wavelength to span
between 1 575 and 1 581 nm.
NOTE 2 – There are optional cases where the "minimum optical return loss (ORL) of ODN at Olu and Old"
can be as low as 20 dB (see [b-ITU-T G.983.1] Appendix I).
NOTE 3 – The value of ONU transceiver reflectance corresponding to the "minimum optical return loss
(ORL) of ODN at Olu and Old" is −20 dB (see [b-ITU-T G.983.1] Appendix II).
NOTE 4 – See [b-ITU-T G Suppl.39], clause 9.4.1 for additional details.
NOTE 5 – This sensitivity shall be met in the presence of G-PON and video overlay on the same ODN. If
either G-PON, or video overlay, or both are absent, the sensitivity may be different (precise value is for
further study).
NOTE 6 – The specified penalty must be met by optics complying with the specified launched power
range. If a transmitter exhibits a higher penalty, it can still comply if it equally increases the minimum

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 7

 Table 9-3 – Optical interface parameters of 9.95328 Gbit/s downstream direction
Item Unit Value
launched power while remaining under the maximum launched power. In no case should the OPP exceed
2.5 dB.
NOTE 7 – Parameter known in [ITU-T G.984.2] as "Tolerance to the transmitter incident light power".
NOTE 8 – Parameter known in [ITU-T G.984.2] as "Tolerance to the reflected optical power".
NOTE 9 – For ODN branches with a maximum OLT-ONU fibre length greater than 20 km, the applicable
maximum OPP is the DD40 value. However, the fibre loss at the downstream wavelength is lower than
that at the upstream wavelength and this more than compensates for the extra OPP of DD40 vs.
DD20 (i.e., the upstream wavelength loss limits the link distance and therefore loss margin exists for the
downstream signal). For systems that connect ONUs at both short and long distances (up to 40 km) to the
same OLT port, the optical link must comply with the DD20 maximum OPP value for ONUs at < =20 km
and the DD40 maximum OPP value for ONUs at > 20 km.

9.2.6.3 Optical interface parameters of 2.48832 Gbit/s upstream direction

Table 9-4 – Optical interface parameters of 2.48832 Gbit/s upstream direction

Item Unit Value
ONU transmitter (optical interface Oru)
Nominal line rate Gbit/s 2.48832
Operating wavelength nm 1260 – 1280
Line code – NRZ
Mask of the transmitter eye diagram – see clause 9.2.7.6.2
Maximum reflectance at R/S, measured at dB less than –6
transmitter wavelength
Minimum optical return loss (ORL) of ODN at dB more than 32
Oru and Ord (Notes 1 and 2)
ODN Class N1 N2 E1 E2
Mean launched power MIN dBm +2.0 +2.0 +2.0 +2.0
Mean launched power MAX dBm +7.0 +7.0 +7.0 +7.0
Launched optical power without input to the less than "Minimum sensitivity at BER
dBm
transmitter (Note 3) reference level" – 10
Maximum Tx enable (Note 3) bits 32
Maximum Tx disable (Note 3) bits 32
Minimum extinction ratio dB 8.2
Transmitter tolerance to reflected optical power dB more than –15
(Note 8)
Dispersion range (Note 4, Note 5) ps/nm 0 to −140 (DD20)
0 to −280 (DD40)
Minimum side mode suppression ratio (Note dB 30
10)
Jitter transfer – see clause 9.2.9.7.1
Jitter generation – see clause 9.2.9.7.3
OLT receiver (optical interface Olu)
Maximum OPP (Note 7) dB 0.5

8 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

 Table 9-4 – Optical interface parameters of 2.48832 Gbit/s upstream direction
Item Unit Value
Maximum reflectance at S/R, measured at dB less than −20
receiver wavelength
BER reference level – 10−4 (Note 6)
ODN Class N1 N2 E1 E2
Minimum sensitivity at BER reference level dBm −27.5 −29.5 −31.5 −33.5
Minimum overload at BER reference level dBm −7.0 −9.0 −11 −13
Consecutive identical digit immunity bit more than 72
Jitter tolerance – see clause 9.2.9.7.2
Receiver tolerance to reflected optical power dB less than 10
(Note 9)
NOTE 1 – There are optional cases where the "minimum optical return loss (ORL) of ODN at Oru and Ord
" can be as low as 20 dB (see [b-ITU-T G.983.1] Appendix I).
NOTE 2 – The value of ONU transceiver reflectance corresponding to the "minimum optical return loss
(ORL) of ODN at Oru and Ord" is −20 dB (see [b-ITU-T G.983.1] Appendix II).
NOTE 3 – As defined in clause 9.2.7.3.1.
NOTE 4 – Dispersion range is considered to be the most appropriate method of specifying a laser's
spectral characteristic. These values are considered to be compatible with the older method of specifying
values using maximum −20 dB width, for line rates below 2.5 Gbit/s.
NOTE 5 –The equivalent maximum –20 dB width value is specified as less than 1 nm.
NOTE 6 – See [b-ITU-T G Suppl.39], clause 9.4.1 for additional details.
NOTE 7 – The specified penalty is valid up to a 40 km link distance.
NOTE 8 – Parameter known in [ITU-T G.984.2] as "Tolerance to the transmitter incident light power".
NOTE 9 – Parameter known in [ITU-T G.984.2] as "Tolerance to the reflected optical power".
NOTE 10 – See Annex A for additional spectral requirements that limit harmful crosstalk penalties on the
upstream transmissions of coexisting PON systems. Other means to facilitate coexistence are described in
[ITU-T G.9805].

9.2.7 Transmitter at Old and Oru

All parameters are specified as follows, and are in accordance with Table 9-3 and Table 9-4.
9.2.7.1 Source type
Considering the attenuation/dispersion characteristics of the target fibre channel, feasible transmitter
devices include only single-longitudinal mode (SLM) lasers. The indication of a nominal source type
in this Recommendation is not a requirement though it is also expected that only SLM lasers will
meet all the distance and line rate requirements of the XG-PON systems both for the downstream and
upstream links.
The use of multilongitudinal mode (MLM) lasers is not contemplated in this Recommendation, due
to their practical distance/line rate limitations.
9.2.7.2 Spectral characteristics
For SLM lasers, the laser is specified as its fibre dispersion range, the range over which the laser
characteristics and fibre dispersion result in a defined penalty at a specified fibre distance, under
standard operating conditions. Additionally, for control of mode partition noise in SLM systems, a
minimum value for the laser side-mode suppression ratio is specified. The actual spectral

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 9

characteristics are limited by the maximum amount of OPP produced with the worst-case optical
dispersion in the data channel.
The use of MLM lasers is not contemplated in this Recommendation.
9.2.7.3 Mean launched power
The mean launched power at O ld and Oru is the average power of a pseudo-random data sequence
coupled into the fibre by the transmitter. It is given as a range to allow for some cost optimization
and to cover all allowances for operation under standard operating conditions, transmitter connector
degradation, measurement tolerances and ageing effects.
In the operating state, the lower figure is the minimum power to be provided and the higher one is the
power never to be exceeded.
NOTE – Measurement of the launched power at the Oru optical interface must take into account the burst nature
of the upstream traffic transmitted by the ONUs.
9.2.7.3.1 Launched optical power without input to the transmitter
In the upstream direction, the ONU transmitter should ideally launch no power into the fibre in all
bursts which are not assigned to that ONU. However, an optical power level less than or equal to the
launched power without input to the transmitter is allowed during bursts which are not assigned to
that ONU. During the Tx enable bit period the transmit levels are not specified, provided they comply
with the PMD Tables 9-3 and 9-4. During the Tx disable bit period immediately following the
assigned burst, the maximum launch power level allowed is the zero-level corresponding to the
minimum extinction ratio specified in Tables 9-3 and 9-4.
The specification of the maximum number of Tx enable and Tx disable bit periods is provided in
Table 9-3 and Table 9-4.
The relationship between ONU power levels and burst times is shown in Figure 9-1.

Figure 9-1 – Relationship between ONU power levels and burst times
9.2.7.4 Minimum extinction ratio
The extinction ratio (ER) is defined as:
ER = 10 log10 (A/B)
where A is the average optical power level at the centre of the binary 1 and B is the average optical
power level at the centre of the binary 0.

10 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

The ER for the upstream direction burst mode signal is applied from the first bit of the preamble to
the last bit of the burst signal, inclusive.
9.2.7.5 Maximum reflectance of equipment, measured at transmitter wavelength
Reflections from equipment (ONU/OLT) back to the cable plant are specified by the maximum
permissible reflectance of equipment measured at O ld/O ru, in accordance with Table 9-3 and
Table 9-4.
9.2.7.6 Mask of transmitter eye diagram
In this Recommendation, general transmitter pulse shape characteristics including rise time, fall time,
pulse overshoot, pulse undershoot and ringing, all of which should be controlled to prevent excessive
degradation of the receiver sensitivity, are specified in the form of a mask of the transmitter eye
diagram at Old/O ru. For the purpose of assessing the transmit signal, it is important to consider not
only the eye opening, but also the overshoot and undershoot limitations.
9.2.7.6.1 OLT transmitter
The parameters specifying the mask of the eye diagram (see Figure 9-2) for the OLT transmitter are
shown in Table 9-5. The test set-up for the measurement of the mask of the eye diagram is shown in
Figure 9-3.

Figure 9-2 – Mask of the eye diagram for OLT transmitter

Table 9-5 – Mask of the eye diagram for OLT transmitter – Numeric values
9.95328 Gbit/s
x3 − x2 (Note 1) 0.2
y1 0.25
y2 0.75
y3 0.25
y4 0.25
NOTE 1 – x2 and x3 of the rectangular eye mask need not be equidistant with respect to
the vertical axes at 0 UI and 1 UI.
NOTE 2 – The values are taken from [ITU-T G.959.1], clause 7.2.2.14.

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 11

 Figure 9-3 – Test set-up for mask of the eye diagram for OLT transmitter
9.2.7.6.2 ONU transmitter
The parameters specifying the mask of the eye diagram (see Figure 9-4) for the ONU transmitter are
shown in Table 9-6. The test set-up for the measurement of the mask of the eye diagram is shown in
Figure 9-5.

Figure 9-4 – Mask of the eye diagram for ONU transmitter

Table 9-6 – Mask of the eye diagram for ONU transmitter – Numeric values

2.48832 Gbit/s 9.95328 Gbit/s

x3 − x2 (Note 1) 0.2 0.2
y1, y3, y4 0.25 0.25
y2 0.75 0.75
NOTE 1 –Parameters x2 and x3 of the rectangular eye mask need not be equidistant with respect to the
vertical axes at 0 UI and 1 UI.
NOTE 2 – The values are taken from [ITU-T G.957], clause 6.2.5.

Figure 9-5 – Test set-up for mask of the eye diagram for ONU transmitter

12 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

The mask of the eye diagram for the upstream direction burst mode signal is applied from the first bit
of the preamble to the last bit of the burst signal, inclusive.
9.2.7.7 Transmitter tolerance to reflected optical power
The specified transmitter performance must be met in the presence of the optical reflection level at
reference point S specified in Table 9-3 and Table 9-4.
9.2.8 Optical path between Old/Oru and Ord/Olu
9.2.8.1 Attenuation range
Four classes of attenuation ranges are specified in clause 6.1.
Attenuation specifications are assumed to be worst-case values at all wavelengths specified in
Table 9-3 and Table 9-4, including losses due to splices, connectors, optical attenuators (if used) or
other passive optical devices, and any additional cable margin to cover allowances for:
1) future modifications to the cable configuration (additional splices, increased cable lengths,
etc.);
2) fibre cable performance variations due to environmental factors; and
3) degradation of any connector, optical attenuators (if used) or other passive optical devices
between points S and R, when provided.
9.2.8.2 Minimum optical return loss of the cable plant at point R/S, including any
connectors
Overall minimum optical return loss (ORL) specification at point R/S in the ODN is specified in
Table 9-3 and Table 9-4.
Optionally, minimum ORL specification at point S in the ODN is specified in Note 2 of Table 9-3
and Table 9-4.
NOTE – The overall reflectance at the S/R point for an ODN model is dominated by the optical connectors at
the optical distribution frame (ODF). The maximum reflectance of a single discrete element within
[ITU-T G.982] is −35 dB. The reflectance from the two ODF connectors leads to a figure of −32 dB. However,
based on another network model, the overall reflectance may become worse than −20 dB.
9.2.8.3 Maximum discrete reflectance between points S and R
All discrete reflectances in the ODN shall be better than −35 dB as defined in [ITU-T G.982].
9.2.8.4 Dispersion
Systems considered limited by dispersion have maximum values of dispersion (ps/nm) specified in
Table 9-3 and Table 9-4. These values are consistent with the maximum optical path penalties
specified. They take into account the specified transmitter type, and the fibre dispersion coefficient
over the operating wavelength range.
9.2.9 Receiver at Ord and Olu
All parameters are specified as follows, in accordance with Table 9-3 and Table 9-4.
9.2.9.1 Receiver sensitivity
Receiver sensitivity is defined in [ITU-T G.987]. The values are specified in Table 9-3 and Table 9-4.
Receiver sensitivity takes into account power penalties caused by the use of a transmitter under
standard operating conditions with worst-case values of ER, pulse rise and fall times, optical return
loss (ORL) at point R/S, receiver connector degradation and measurement tolerances. The receiver
sensitivity does not include power penalties associated with dispersion, jitter or reflections from the
optical path; these effects are specified separately in the allocation of maximum OPP.

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 13

9.2.9.2 Receiver overload
Receiver overload is defined in [ITU-T G.987]. The values are specified in Table 9-3 and Table 9-4,
accordingly. The receiver should have a certain robustness against increased optical power level due
to start-up or potential collisions during ranging, for which the BER, specified in Table 9-3 and
Table 9-4, is not guaranteed.
9.2.9.3 Maximum optical path penalty
Optical path penalty is defined in [ITU-T G.987]. The receiver is required to tolerate an OPP not
exceeding the value specified in Table 9-3 and Table 9-4.
9.2.9.4 Maximum reflectance at R/S, measured at receiver wavelength
Reflections from equipment (ONU/OLT) back to the cable plant are specified by the maximum
permissible reflectance of equipment measured at O rd and Olu . It shall be in accordance with Table 9-3
and Table 9-4.
9.2.9.5 Differential optical path loss
Differential optical path loss means the optical path loss difference between the highest and lowest
optical path loss in the same ODN. The maximum differential optical path loss is defined in Table 9-3
and Table 9-4.
9.2.9.6 Clock extraction capability
NOTE – The clock of the upstream transmission signal is extracted rapidly from several alternating bits in the
preamble. The clock extracted from the preamble is maintained at least during reception of the signal from the
delimiter through the end of the upstream assigned burst, or is continuously extracted from the signal after the
preamble during reception of the assigned burst.
9.2.9.7 Jitter performance
This clause deals with jitter requirements for optical interfaces of XG-PON.
9.2.9.7.1 Jitter transfer
The jitter transfer specification applies only to the ONU.
The jitter transfer function is defined as:
jitter on upstream signal UI downstream bit rate
jitter transfer = 20 log10 [jitter on downstream signal UI × upstream bit rate
]

The jitter transfer function of an ONU shall be under the curve given in Figure 9-6, when input
sinusoidal jitter up to the mask level in Figure 9-7 is applied, with the parameters specified in this
figure for each line rate.

14 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

 Figure 9-6 – Jitter transfer for ONU

Figure 9-7 – High-band portion of sinusoidal jitter mask for jitter transfer

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 15

 Figure 9-8 – Jitter tolerance mask
9.2.9.7.2 Jitter tolerance
Jitter tolerance is defined as the peak-to-peak amplitude of sinusoidal jitter applied on the input
XG-PON signal that causes a 1 dB optical power penalty at the optical equipment. Note that it is a
stress test to ensure that no additional penalty is incurred under operating conditions.
The ONU shall tolerate, as a minimum, the input jitter applied according to the mask in Figure 9-8,
with the parameters specified in that figure for the downstream line rate. The OLT should tolerate, as
a minimum, the input jitter applied according to the mask in Figure 9-8, with the parameters specified
in that figure for the upstream line rate. The jitter tolerance specification for the OLT is informative
as it can only be measured in a setting that permits continuous operation of the upstream.
9.2.9.7.3 Jitter generation
An ONU shall not generate a peak-to-peak jitter amplitude more than shown in Table 9-7 at a line
rate of 2.48832 Gbit/s, with no jitter applied to the downstream input and with a measurement
bandwidth as specified in Table 9-7. An OLT shall not generate a peak-to-peak jitter amplitude more
than that shown in Table 9-7 at a line rate of 9.95328 Gbit/s, with no jitter applied to its timing
reference input and with a measurement bandwidth as specified in Table 9-7.

Table 9-7 – Jitter generation requirements for XG-PON

Measurement band
(−3 dB frequencies) Peak-peak amplitude
Line rate (Gbit/s) (Note 1) (UI)
High-pass Low-pass (MHz) (Note 2)
(kHz) −60 dB/dec
5 20 0.30
2.48832
1000 20 0.10
20 80 0.30
9.95328
4000 80 0.10
NOTE 1 – The high-pass and low-pass measurement filter transfer functions are defined in clause 5 of
[ITU-T G.825].
NOTE 2 – The measurement time and pass/fail criteria are defined in clause 5 of [ITU-T G.825].
NOTE 3 – This table comes from [ITU-T G.783].

16 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

9.2.9.8 Consecutive identical digit (CID) immunity
The OLT and the ONU shall have a CID immunity as specified in the series of Table 9-3 and
Table 9-4.
9.2.9.9 Receiver tolerance to reflected power
The receiver tolerance to reflected power is the allowable ratio of optical input average power of O rd
and Olu to reflected optical average power when multiple reflections are regarded as a noise light at
Ord and Olu, respectively.
The receiver tolerance to reflected power is defined at minimum receiver sensitivity.
9.2.9.10 Transmission quality and error performance
To avoid system down time or failures, the frame structure should be robust in the presence of
transmission BER up to the values defined in Table 9-3 and Table 9-4.
The average BER on individual links across the entire PON system will typically be lower than the
values defined in Table 9-3 and Table 9-4. Optical components should provide BER better than the
values defined in Table 9-3 and Table 9-4 when conditions allow.

10 X/S tolerance masks

10.1 X/S tolerance mask for ONU

The minimum optical sensitivity of an XG-PON ONU must be met in the presence of interference
signals. Interference signals are caused by other services such as G-PON and/or video signals in the
enhancement band specified in [ITU-T G.987.1]. To minimize the effect of interference signals,
XG-PON ONUs need to isolate them using an appropriate wavelength blocking filter (WBF) and
WDM filter. This Recommendation does not specify the isolation characteristics of the WBF and
WDM filters directly, but specifies the X/S tolerance of the XG-PON ONU. Here, S is the optical
power of the XG-PON signal, and X is that of the interference signal(s). Both are measured at the
ONU reference point R/S, corresponding to the ONU reference point IFXGPON specified in
[ITU-T G.987.1].
The interference signal format for measuring X/S tolerance is a non-return-to-zero (NRZ) pseudo-
random code with the same line rate as the XG-PON downstream signal or a lower line rate within
the bandwidth of the XG-PON receiver.
This tolerance can be used to design a variety of WDM configurations at the ONU. It makes no
definite assumption about additional services using the enhancement band specified in
[ITU-T G.987.1]. Figure 10-1 shows the X/S tolerance mask that should not cause the XG-PON
receiver to fail to meet its sensitivity requirements. Implementers need to specify the isolation
characteristics of the WBF and WDM filters to obtain enough isolation of the interference signal(s).
This allows the XG-PON sensitivity requirement to be met in the presence of this level of interference.
The wavelengths and total optical launched power of additional services must fall beneath the mask
of Figure 10-1 to allow coexistence with XG-PON.

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 17

S: Received power of basic band
X: Maximum total power of additional services received in the blocking wavelength range.
X/S: In the mask (hatching area) should not cause the XG-PON receiver to fail to meet its sensitivity requirements.

Figure 10-1 – X/S tolerance mask for ONU (Versatile WDM configuration)

10.2 X/S tolerance mask for OLT

X/S tolerance mask definition of XG-PON OLT is used to enable a variety of WDM implementations
at the OLT. This clause specifies the X/S tolerance mask that should ensure the XG-PON OLT
receiver will not fail to meet its sensitivity requirements in the presence of coexisting PON signals.
This is an optional requirement for an XG-PON OLT but, in order to facilitate smooth evolution to
higher speed PON and alleviate the high isolation requirement of coexistence elements (CEx), it is
recommended the necessary WBF be implemented. To ensure X/S compliance, implementers need
to design the combined isolation characteristics of the WBF and WDM filters to obtain enough overall
isolation of the signals in the blocking wavelength range. This allows the XG-PON OLT sensitivity
requirement to be met in the presence of this level of interference.

S: Received power.
X: Maximum total power of additional services received in the blocking wavelength range.
X/S: In the mask (hatching area) should not cause the XG-PON receiver to fail to meet its sensitivity requirements.

Figure 10-2 – X/S tolerance mask for XG-PON OLT

18 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

11 Upstream physical layer overhead
The XG-PON frame structure is described in [ITU-T G.987.3], which is devoted to the specification
of the TC layer. However, upstream bursts must be preceded by suitable physical layer overhead,
which is used to accommodate several physical processes. Table 11-1 shows the length of the physical
layer overhead for the upstream line rate specified in this Recommendation.

Table 11-1 – XG-PON upstream physical layer overhead

Upstream line rate Overhead bits
2.48832 Gbit/s 256
Moreover, Appendix III provides information on the physical processes that have to be performed
during the physical layer overhead (Tplo) time, and some guidelines on the optimum use of Tplo.

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 19

 Annex A

ONU out-of-band power spectral density

(This annex forms an integral part of this Recommendation.)

The purpose of this annex is to specify a set of additional requirements on the ONU transmitter which
should be applied in multisystem coexistence deployments. These requirements are stricter than those
in the base text of this Recommendation.
The requirements specified in this annex are optional. Implementations of this Recommendation
should not be assumed to meet the requirements of this annex. If the implementer declares the support
of this annex, the implementation shall meet all the requirements specified herein.
Coexistence with other PON systems (e.g., ITU-T G.984.x Series, ITU-T G.989.x Series, ITU-T
G.9804.3, etc.) on the same ODN is a frequent requirement for PON system deployments. In such
cases, light from ONU transmitters of one PON type may fall into the upstream operating wavelength
band of a coexisting PON system. If the optical power of this out-of-band (OOB) light is too high,
then this may cause harmful crosstalk penalties on the upstream transmissions of the coexisting PON
systems. Such problems are exacerbated in PON ODNs where the differential optical loss is high, and
the interfering ONU is on a lower loss path.
To ensure successful operation in PON coexistence use cases, the out-of-band power spectral density
(OOB-PSD) must be below a certain level. The OOB-PSD mask for the ONU transmitter at the R/S
interface is shown in Figure A.1 and the values are given in Tables A.1 and A.2. To meet the OOB-
PSD mask requirement, the ONU PSD remains below the dashed mask line under all operating
conditions. The in-band power limit (Y) is the maximum ONU launched power and the points at the
ONU operating band edge (Y-SMSR) represent the power limit given by the ONU transmitter side-
mode-suppression ratio (SMSR). The out-of-band PSD (X) is the power outside of the ONU operating
wavelength band that may fall into coexisting PON upstream operating wavelength bands. The OOB-
PSD spectral interval is 0.1 nm according to the industry convention for optical signal-to-noise
measurement.

Figure A.1 – ONU transmitter OOB-PSD mask definition

20 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

 Table A.1 –ONU OOB-PSD mask wavelengths

Wavelength (nm)

λ1 Not applicable

λ2 1260

λ3 1280

λ4 1284

Table A.2 – ONU OOB-PSD mask values

Mask range PSD (dBm measured in 0.1 nm)
1260 nm ≤ λ  λ Not applicable
λ1 ≤ λ  λ2 Y-SMSR
λ2 ≤ λ ≤ λ3 Y
λ3  λ ≤ λ4 Y-SMSR
λ4  λ ≤ 1650 nm X= −41.5 dBm
Y= Mean launch power maximum as given in the ONU PMD parameter tables
SMSR= Minimum side-mode-suppression ratio as given in the ONU PMD parameter tables.
NOTE – The OOB-PSD mask specification must be met under the full range of ODN conditions including
reflections, as specified elsewhere in this Recommendation.
The mask wavelengths define the boundaries of measurement ranges. The entire 0.1 nm measurement
interval should lie inside a single range.

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 21

 Appendix I

Examples of wavelength allocation for XG-PON, G-PON

and video distribution services
(This appendix does not form an integral part of this Recommendation.)

See Appendix II of [b-ITU-T G.984.5] for a generic consideration of wavelength allocation for
XG-PON, G-PON and video distribution services.

22 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

 Appendix II

Physical layer measurements required to support optical layer supervision

(This appendix does not form an integral part of this Recommendation.)

See Annex B in [ITU-T G.984.2].

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 23

 Appendix III

Allocation of the physical layer overhead time

(This appendix does not form an integral part of this Recommendation.)

The physical layer overhead time (Tplo) is used to accommodate five physical processes in the PON.
These are: laser on/off time, timing drift tolerance, level recovery, clock recovery and start of burst
delimitation. The exact division of the physical layer time to all these functions is determined partly
by constraint equations and partly by implementation choices. This appendix reviews the constraints
that the OLT must comply with, and suggests values for the discretionary values.
Tplo can be divided into three sections with respect to what ONU data pattern is desired. For simplicity,
these times can be referred to as the guard time (T g), the preamble time (Tp) and the delimiter time
(Td). During Tg , the ONU transmit levels are not specified, provided they comply with the PMD
Tables 9-3 and 9-4. During the Tx disable bit period immediately following the assigned burst, the
maximum launch power level allowed is the zero-level corresponding to the minimum ER specified
in Tables 9-3 and 9-4. During Tp, the ONU will transmit a preamble pattern that provides the desired
transition density and signal pattern for fast level and clock recovery functions. Lastly, during Td , the
ONU will transmit a special data pattern with optimal autocorrelation properties that enable the OLT
to find the beginning of the burst. Table III.2 gives recommended values for T g, Tp, Td and Tplo . Figure
III.1 shows the timing relationship between the various physical layer overhead times.

Figure III.1 – Timing relationship between the various physical layer overhead times

An additional parameter of the control logic on the PON is the total peak-to-peak timing uncertainty
(Tu). This uncertainty arises from variations of the time of flight caused by the fibre and component
variations with temperature and other environmental factors.
The constraint equations with which the OLT must comply are then:
𝑇𝑔 > 𝑇𝑜𝑛 + 𝑇𝑢 and 𝑇𝑔 > 𝑇𝑜𝑓𝑓 + 𝑇𝑢
These equations can be explained as follows. The first equation makes sure that the following burst's
laser on ramp-up does not fall on top of the last burst's data. The second equation makes sure that the
last burst's laser off tail-off does not fall on top of the following burst's preamble.
Tp must be sufficient for the physical layer to recover the signal level (essentially, setting the decision
threshold) and the signal clock phase. There are many diverse design approaches to these two
problems, each with its own benefits and costs. Some designs are very fast, but require an external
trigger signal and produce sub-optimal error performance. Other designs are slower, but do not
require a reset signal and produce bit errors that are normally distributed. In addition, each of these
designs may have special requirements on the data pattern used for the preamble. Some designs prefer
a maximum transition density pattern, while others prefer a pattern with a balance of transitions and
controlled runs of identical digits.

24 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

Since the design is up to the OLT implementer, the OLT is able to configure the details of the
preamble that is transmitted by the ONU. This is part of the burst profile discussion below.
Td must be long enough to provide a robust delimiter function in the face of bit errors. The error
resistance of the delimiter depends on the exact implementation of the pattern correlator, but a simple
approximate relationship between the number of bits in the delimiter (N) and the number of bit errors
tolerated (E) is:
𝐸 = int(𝑁/4) − 1 (III.1)
Equation III.1 has been empirically verified by a numerical search of all delimiters of sizes ranging
from 8 to 32 bits. This search was performed under the assumption that the preamble pattern was a
'1010' repeating pattern, and that the delimiter had an equal number of zeroes and ones. The Hamming
distance, D, of the best delimiter from all shifted patterns of itself and the preamble was found to be
D = int(N/2) − 1; yielding the error tolerance shown.
Given a certain BER, the probability of a severely errored burst (Pseb) is given by:
𝑁
𝑃𝑠𝑒𝑏 = ( ) 𝐵𝐸𝑅𝐸+1 (III.2)
𝐸+1
Substituting equation III.1 into equation III.2, the resultant Pseb is given by:
𝑁
𝑃𝑠𝑒𝑏 = ( ) 𝐵𝐸𝑅𝑖𝑛𝑡(𝑁/4) (III.3)
𝑖𝑛𝑡(𝑁/4
If the BER equals 10 −4, the resultant Pseb for various delimiter lengths, N, is given in Table III.1.
Inspection of this table shows that, in order to effectively suppress this kind of error, the delimiter
length must be at least 16 bits long. The choice of delimiter length and pattern is made by the OLT
as part of the burst profile.

Table III.1 – Probability of a severely errored

burst as a function of delimiter length

N Pseb
8 2.8 × 10–7
12 2.2 × 10–10
16 1.8 × 10–13
20 1.5 × 10–16
24 1.3 × 10–19
32 1.1 × 10–25
64 4.9 × 10–50

With these considerations taken into account, the worst case and objective allocations of the physical
layer overhead are given in Table III.2. This table also lists the values for the ONU Tx enable time
and Tx disable time, and the total physical layer overhead time for reference. The worst-case values
are intended to provide a reasonable bound for easy implementation, and the objective values are
intended to be the design target for more efficient implementation with optimized components. These
values are for a simple ODN without reach extenders. Reach extenders may require their own guard
and preamble time allowances, making the total overhead larger.

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 25

 Table III.2 – Recommended allocation of
burst mode overhead time for XG-PON OLT functions
Tx Tx Total Guard Preamble Delimiter
enable disable time time time time
Worst case 32 32 2048 128 1856 64
(bit times)
Objective 32 32 256 64 160 32
(bit times)
In addition to the design dependent aspects of the burst overhead, there can be operationally
dependent factors. For example, detecting an ONU's ranging burst is a more difficult problem than
receiving an ONU's regular transmission. To consider another example, some ONUs may have higher
power and be easier to detect, and therefore do not need forward error correction (FEC). For these
reasons, the OLT may request different burst parameters depending on the context.
The concept of a burst profile captures all the aspects of burst overhead control. A burst profile
specifies the preamble pattern and length, the delimiter pattern and length, and whether FEC parity
should be sent. The OLT establishes one or more burst profiles, and then requests a particular burst
profile for each burst transmission.
The OLT has considerable latitude in setting up the profiles, because the OLT's burst receiver is
sensitive to the profile parameters. Therefore, the OLT should use profiles that ensure adequate
response in its burst mode receiver. However, some basic requirements from the ONU side must be
met. Namely, the preamble and delimiter patterns should be balanced, and they should have a
reasonable transition density. If not, the ONU transmitter driver circuitry may be adversely affected.
Also note that the preamble and delimiter patterns could differ in each profile, and this difference
could be used by the OLT receiver as an in-band indication of the format of each burst (e.g., FEC
active or not).
The details of distributing the burst profiles and signalling their use are described in [ITU-T G.987.3],
the XG-PON XGTC layer.

26 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

 Appendix IV

Jitter budget specifications

(This appendix does not form an integral part of this Recommendation.)

IV.1 The concept of jitter budget

Figure IV.1 describes the overall concept of the jitter specification and shows the place of the jitter
budget in it.

Figure IV.1 – The place of the jitter budget in the overall jitter specification

The jitter budget specifies jitter components that are not covered by the low frequency jitter
specifications. All jitter components accounted for in the jitter budget are integrated over the
frequency domain that starts from the upper corner frequency (ft) of the jitter tolerance mask
(see clause 9.2.9.7.2).
The jitter budget is based on the dual Gaussian jitter model. In this model, the jitter components are
classified into deterministic jitter (DJ) and random jitter (RJ). The DJ components are modelled as a
bimodal distribution and the RJ components as a Gaussian distribution. In addition, the duty-cycle
distortion (DCD), which is a DC component, is included into the DJ specification of the jitter budget.
The basic assumptions of the model are as follows:
1) Jitter is represented assuming the DJ has an equiprobable bimodal distribution, and the RJ
has a Gaussian distribution.
2) All sources of random jitter are assumed independent; therefore, RJ RMS values can be added
by squares.
3) All sources of DJ are assumed to be correlated (this is a worst-case assumption, meaning that
all DJ components are either together at maximum value or together at minimum value, with
equal probability for the minimum and the maximum to occur).

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 27

Under these assumptions, the total jitter is defined at each given BER by:
𝑇𝐽@BER = 𝐷𝐽 + 𝑅𝐽RMS ⋅ 2 ⋅ 𝑄 −1 (𝐵𝐸𝑅)
where Q−1(BER) is the inverse of the Q function. For a very rigorous definition of jitter
methodologies, refer to [b-ISO MJSQ].

IV.2 Definition of test points

In order to build a consistent jitter budget, test points need to be defined at which the jitter components
are to be measured. It is important to notice that between the optical module and the SERDES
component (whether it is a stand-alone component connected to the MAC through a parallel interface
or whether it is integrated inside the MAC ASIC) there is a non-negligible electrical channel.
The test points of the jitter budget are defined in Figure IV.2 and Table IV.1.

Figure IV.2 – Test points of the jitter budget

Table IV.1 – Description of test points for jitter budget

Test Point Description
TPa Electrical test point at the TX output pins of OLT SERDES
TP1 Electrical test point at the TX input pins of OLT optical module
TP2 Optical test point at output of OLT (downstream)
TP3 Optical test point at input of ONU (downstream)
TP4 Electrical test point at the RX output pins of ONU optical module
TPx Electrical test point at the RX input pins of ONU SERDES
Tpy Electrical test point at the TX output pins of ONU SERDES
TP5 Electrical test point at the TX input pins of ONU optical module
TP6 Optical test point at output of ONU (upstream)

28 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

 Table IV.1 – Description of test points for jitter budget
Test Point Description
TP7 Optical test point at input of OLT (upstream)
TP8 Electrical test point at the RX output pins of OLT optical module
TPd Electrical test point at the RX input pins of OLT SERDES

IV.3 Jitter budget specification for XG-PON

The proposed values of the jitter components at the different test points are presented in Table IV.2.
All jitter values are indicated as peak-to-peak values at the BER that corresponds to the respective
test point. Jitter at all test points except TP4, TPx, TP8 and TPd is defined at BER = 10−12, which is
the target BER of the system and also the default BER used by the test instruments. RJ at the receiver
is calculated at a power level equal to the sum of the minimum sensitivity and the maximum OPP, as
defined in Table 9-3 for the downstream direction and Table 9-4 for the upstream direction. Jitter at
TP4 and TPx is defined at BER = 10−3, and jitter at TP8 and TPd is defined at BER=10 –4, since the
system relies on FEC to reach the system target BER.

Table IV.2 – Jitter budget for XG-PON

Downstream jitter budget

Test point DJ [Uipp] RJ [Uipp] TJ [Uipp] BER
Tpa 0.10 0.14 0.24
TP1 0.12 0.14 0.26
10−12
TP2 0.21 0.18 0.38
TP3 0.26 0.18 0.43
TP4 0.41 0.27 0.67
10−3
TPx 0.50 0.27 0.77
Upstream jitter budget
Test point DJ [Uipp] RJ [Uipp] TJ [Uipp] BER
Tpy 0.07 0.09 0.17
TP5 0.10 0.09 0.20
10−12
TP6 0.24 0.10 0.35
TP7 0.24 0.10 0.35
TP8 0.40 0.19 0.59
10−4
TPd 0.43 0.19 0.62
NOTE – The values in Table IV.2 are for further study and subject to change.

IV.4 Jitter measurements for compliance to budget

A set-up that can be used to measure the jitter components at the test points defined in Table IV.1 and
verify their compliance to the values given in Table IV.2 is presented in Figure IV.3.
The set-up contains an OLT and an ONU. The ONU is configured to transmit in continuous mode
and a PRBS31 pattern is recommended.

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 29

If measurement of jitter at optical test points is required, optical splitters have to be added to the set-
up to permit connection of the O2E probe. If the measurement is to include the dispersion from the
optical fibre, then a 20 km spool has to be added to the set-up.

Figure IV.3 – Measurement set-up for jitter budget compliance

30 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

 Appendix V

Measurement of burst mode acquisition time and burst

mode eye opening at OLT
(This appendix does not form an integral part of this Recommendation.)

One of the major challenges for the burst mode clock and data recovery (CDR) implementation is the
need to cope with the transient effects causing additional eye closure at the beginning of the burst.
The burst mode CDR has to acquire the phase information exactly on the preamble portion of the
incoming data stream, hence it would be reasonable to require the optical module to preserve signal
good quality. The better the performance of the optics, the shorter the preamble required for correct
system operation.
We define the burst mode eye opening as the opening of the eye pattern that is collected starting from
an offset X from the beginning of the burst. The burst mode acquisition time is defined as the shortest
offset X from the beginning of the burst that will render a compliant eye pattern. A compliant eye
pattern means an eye opening that meets the jitter budget and correct logical signal levels.
A set-up for measuring burst mode acquisition time and burst mode eye opening occurring at the
beginning of each burst is presented in Figure V.1.

Figure V.1 – Set-up for measurement of burst mode acquisition

time and burst mode eye opening

The following is a list of recommendations related to measurement of burst mode acquisition time
and burst mode eye opening compliance:
− Use a real time sampling scope capable of 40 GS/s or more and a memory depth that can
cover at least 125 μs (5M samples) for capturing the eye pattern.
− In order to separate the eye pattern that corresponds to a single given ONU, the oscilloscope
is triggered on RSSI-strobe signal [b-ITU-T G Suppl. 48]. The timing diagram for this signal
is presented in Figure V.2.

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 31

− The burst mode eye diagram is built from the data collected during the sampling window
defined in Figure V.3.
− The eye pattern is built using a unit interval (UI) based on an average unit interval (UI)
calculated from the collected data.
− The differential probe can be placed to perform measurement at either TP8 (module pins) or
at TPd (SERDES pins) (see Figure IV.2).
− The pass/fail condition should be a burst mode eye opening in excess of 0.38 UI at TPd and
correct logical signal levels. Note that 0.38 UI is equal to (1 − TJ) for test point TPd in
Table IV.2.

Figure V.2 – RSSI_strobe timing relative to selected burst source

The test set-up shown in Figure V.1 can be used to determine the burst mode acquisition time of a
given set of optics. The eye pattern measurement is repeated for different values of the parameter X
(defined in Figure V.3) and the minimum setting of X for which the (horizontal) burst mode eye
opening at TPd is better than 0.38 UI determines the burst mode acquisition time of the system. Note
that 0.38 UI is equal to (1 − TJ) for test point TPd in Table IV.2.
The system will perform correctly for settings of the preamble length that are longer than the burst
mode acquisition time.

32 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

Figure V.3 – Timing diagram of the sampling window for burst mode acquisition time and
burst mode eye opening measurements

Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023) 33

 Bibliography

[b-ITU-T G.983.1] Recommendation ITU-T G.983.1 (2005), Broadband optical access

systems based on passive optical networks (PON).
[b-ITU-T G.984.5] Recommendation ITU-T G.984.5 (2022), Gigabit-capable passive
optical networks (G-PON): Enhancement band.
[b-ITU-T G Suppl.39] ITU-T G-series Recommendations – Supplement 39 (2016), Optical
system design and engineering considerations.
[b-ITU-T G Suppl. 48] ITU-T G-series Recommendations – Supplement 48 (2010), 10-Gigabit-
capable passive optical networks: Interface between media access
control with serializer/deserializer and physical medium dependent
dublayers.
[b-ISO MJSQ] ISO/IEC TR 14165-117:2007, Information technology – Fibre Channel –
Part 117: Methodologies for jitter and signal quality (MJSQ).
<https://www.iso.org/standard/42706.htm>.

34 Rec. ITU-T G.987.2 (02/2023)

 SERIES OF ITU-T RECOMMENDATIONS

Series A Organization of the work of ITU-T

Series D Tariff and accounting principles and international telecommunication/ICT economic and
policy issues
Series E Overall network operation, telephone service, service operation and human factors

Series F Non-telephone telecommunication services

Series G Transmission systems and media, digital systems and networks
Series H Audiovisual and multimedia systems
Series I Integrated services digital network

Series J Cable networks and transmission of television, sound programme and other multimedia
signals
Series K Protection against interference
Series L Environment and ICTs, climate change, e-waste, energy efficiency; construction, installation
and protection of cables and other elements of outside plant
Series M Telecommunication management, including TMN and network maintenance
Series N Maintenance: international sound programme and television transmission circuits
Series O Specifications of measuring equipment
Series P Telephone transmission quality, telephone installations, local line networks

Series Q Switching and signalling, and associated measurements and tests

Series R Telegraph transmission
Series S Telegraph services terminal equipment
Series T Terminals for telematic services

Series U Telegraph switching

Series V Data communication over the telephone network
Series X Data networks, open system communications and security
Series Y Global information infrastructure, Internet protocol aspects, next-generation networks,
Internet of Things and smart cities
Series Z Languages and general software aspects for telecommunication systems

Published in Switzerland
Geneva, 2023