IEEE Eyes EPON over Coax

The IEEE has launched a study group to investigate a new PHY (Physical Layer) standard for operating the EPON protocol transparently over coaxial distribution networks. The newly formed IEEE 802.3 EPON Protocol over Coax (EPoC) Study Group will explore using the IEEE 802.3 Ethernet specifications to boost and broaden the capabilities of Ethernet in existing access networks.The new IEEE 802.3 effort is intended to directly address the needs of cable operators who want an end-to-end Ethernet network capable of supporting next-generation services such as video-over-IP. The EPoC Study Group has the support of components vendors, network equipment suppliers, cable operators, and MSOs.The group will explore market demand, network compatibility considerations, and available technologies for a PHY specification for operating the IEEE 802.3 EPON protocol over coaxial distribution networks. The IEEE 802.3 EPoC Study Group will meet for the first time in January 2012, with the expectation that results from the investigation could be completed by July 2012.