ONU or Optical Network Unit is a type of optical device. Nowadays it is widely used as a media converter in internet services. The device used to convert the optical signals of the network into digital signals is called ONU. An ONU has one or more Ethernet ports that are used to connect to devices such as computers, routers, switches, etc. ONU device is very popular in Bangladesh for providing users with high-speed Internet, video, and voice services over optical networks.
Why use ONU?
Providing high-speed Internet and multiple connections, ONU is used to increase network simplicity and reliability.
- High-Speed Internet Delivery: ONU is typically used to provide high-speed Internet connections to homes, offices, and businesses over fiber-to-the-home networks. Additionally, fiber optic cable is used to transmit data, which provides much higher speeds than copper-based network cables.
- Multiple Connection Establishment: ONU is designed for multiple connections such as the Internet, voice and video exchange. As a result, changing the offer or bundle does not affect the connection using ONU.
- Reduce Network Complexity: ONUs help simplify networks by reducing the need for multiple devices and interfaces. Moreover, the new connection has easy installation, connection to the device used by the customer and acts as a bridge between the network of the service provider.
- Increases Network Reliability: Fiber optic network is more reliable than copper-based networks because there is no packet loss or interference in signal transmission. ONU basically ensures that the signal is properly transferred between the fiber optic network and the device used by the customer and increases reliability.
How many type of ONU device available in Bangladesh?
ONU routers vary based on Internet service provider offerings and network requirements. Let's know about ONU devices used in BD:
- GPON ONU: This is the most used ONU in Bangladesh's FTTH network. GPON ONU is designed with the capability to provide high-speed data, voice and video services. This type of ONU can provide 2.5 Gbps downstream speed and 1.25 Gbps upstream speed.
- EPON ONU: EPON ONU is used instead of GPON in fiber to the home network. This type of ONU uses Ethernet as the transport protocol. Also can provide 1 Gbps downstream speed and 1 Gbps upstream speed.
- XG-PON ONU: This is a new type of ONU that provides higher data speed than GPON and EPON ONU. This type of ONU can provide downstream speeds of up to 10 Gbps and upstream speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps.
- WDM ONU: This type of ONU uses different colors of light to transmit network signals. Also supports different wavelengths that provide different services for voice, video or data exchange. WDM ONU is used on certain networks in BD.
What to look for before buying ONU?
ONU is a critical device for providing reliable and high-performance connectivity in the home, office or business.
1. Compatibility: The compatibility of the ONU with the service provider's network should be taken seriously. Internet service providers may use different types of ONUs, so check with the provider before purchasing.
2. Speed & Performance: ONU offers different speeds and performances depending on the type. Therefore, it should be checked whether it can provide speed for online gaming, video streaming or other needs with high bandwidth.
3. Number of Port: It is important to know whether all the devices can be connected to the network as per the demand. Because the ONU has an Ethernet port configuration according to the type.
4. Quality: The user must verify that the ONU is reliable and performs well as required.
5. Effective Expenditure: It should be carefully checked whether it will be consistent with the demand and the budget.
How much does ONU cost?
Currently, ONU is used in homes, offices, and businesses to convert optical signals transmitted through fiber cables into electrical signals at routers. ONU price in BD starts from Tk 700 which depends on signal transfer speed, number of ports, and type. However, one has to spend more than 1,200 taka to buy a good quality WiFi ONU in Bangladesh.
