Overview
IEC 62148-6:2020 defines the physical interface for ATM-PON transceivers used in asynchronous transfer mode passive optical networks (ATM‑PON) as recommended by ITU‑T G.983.1. This second edition (2020) replaces the 2003 edition and provides a technical revision that resolves type inconsistencies in Clause 4 and updates references. The standard specifies the mechanical, optical and electrical interfaces needed for mechanical interchangeability of optical transceivers at the printed circuit board (PCB) and panel level.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope: Physical interface specification for optical transceivers in ATM‑PON systems (ONU modules), focusing on mechanical interchangeability and PCB mounting.
- Module form: Defines a 24‑pin through‑hole package designed as a pigtail-type transceiver (Type 3) with direct solderable electrical terminals.
- Electrical interface:
- Pin numbering and layout (see Figure 1 in the standard) for top-view with pins underneath.
- Pin function definitions for transmitter and receiver sections (Tables 1 and 2). Key pins include Tx V / Rx V (power), Grounds, Data in/out (p/n), Clock in/out (p/n), Bias control (optional), Shut down, and Rx alarm.
- Basic functional assignments only - signaling and protocol specifics referenced to ITU recommendations.
- Optical interface:
- Pigtail interface compatible with fibres defined in IEC 60793-2, ITU‑T G.652 and G.657.
- If pigtails are terminated with connectors, applicable connector standards are IEC 60874 and IEC 61754.
- Mechanical details:
- Case outline and footprint drawings (Figures 2 and 3) with dimensional limits to support PCB layout and panel mounting.
- Normative references: Includes IEC 62148‑1 (general guidance), various IEC optical fibre/connector standards, and ITU‑T recommendations.
Practical applications
- Ensures mechanical and basic electrical interchangeability of ATM‑PON ONU transceivers across suppliers.
- Used by optical transceiver and module manufacturers for product design, PCB footprinting and mechanical specifications.
- Guides system integrators, OEMs and network equipment vendors when specifying ONU modules for ATM‑PON systems.
- Supports test labs and conformity assessment bodies in verifying physical and pin‑assignment compliance.
Who should use this standard
- Fibre‑optic transceiver designers and hardware engineers
- Access network equipment manufacturers (OLT/ONU vendors)
- PCB layout engineers and mechanical designers
- Standards and compliance professionals in telecom and optical access networks
Related standards
Keywords: IEC 62148-6:2020, ATM-PON transceivers, optical transceivers, physical interface, pigtail interface, 24-pin package, ITU G.983.1, ONU, OLT, fibre optic standards.