Pricing factors (what affects cost)
PON/POL projects are scoped, but the most common cost drivers are:
- Building size, number of floors, and route/containment complexity.
- Number of endpoints (ONTs/ONUs) and whether PoE capability is required.
- Fibre type and strand count, termination points and patching complexity.
- Redundancy/resilience requirements (single vs diverse routes/topologies).
- Out‑of‑hours work requirements and access constraints (security, permits, working windows).
- Integration needs (Wi‑Fi, CCTV, access control, IoT segmentation and policies).
FAQs
Q:Is a Passive Optical Network the same as ‘fibre internet’?
Not exactly. ‘Fibre internet’ usually describes a WAN connection to your building. PON/POL is the internal distribution architecture inside your estate, used to deliver network services across floors and zones.
Q: Can PON replace Cat6/Cat6A cabling everywhere?
In some environments, PON/POL can reduce the amount of copper distribution — but most estates still use Ethernet at the endpoint. The design choice is about where fibre ends and copper begins (and what endpoints you need).
Q: Is PON/POL suitable for offices?
It can be, particularly in multi‑tenant or multi‑floor buildings where you want a fibre‑first distribution model. Many offices are still best served by traditional Cat6A plus a strong switching design — a suitability assessment clarifies the best path.
Q: What about powering devices if the network is ‘passive’?
The splitters are passive, but endpoints (ONT/ONU devices) are powered. Endpoint specification (including PoE needs) is a key part of the design.
Q: Can we migrate gradually from a traditional Ethernet network?
Often yes. A phased rollout allows you to validate performance and operational processes before wider deployment.
Q: Do you provide testing and certification?
Yes. Fibre testing and ‘as‑left’ documentation can be included as part of the scope to match your project requirements and procurement expectations.
Q: How long does a PON/POL installation take?
It depends on estate size, routes and access constraints. Many projects are delivered in phases: backbone fibre and splitters first, then endpoints and service cutover.
Q: Can PON/POL support Wi‑Fi, CCTV and access control?
Yes — when designed correctly. Each service has different performance and security requirements, so service mix is captured in discovery and accounted for in the design.
