Profitable areas in large-scale FTTH network optimization

We present an optimization platform for Fiber-to-the-Home network design. The platform is capable of minimizing the capital expenditures (CAPEX) of network deployment by optimizing locations of optical equipment, signal splitters and cable cabinets, optimizing cable routes and types of cables as well as the number and types of optical cards and splitters. We present the architecture of the platform, the design process it implements, and the algorithms it deploys. The platform is used to indicate the parts of the design process that require complex optimization with dedicated algorithms and those that can be left to appropriately crafted engineering rules. We indicate that while keeping the computation time acceptable, much of the CAPEX savings can be obtained when locations of optical equipment are thoroughly optimized, cable routes are determined with plain engineering rules, and finally, signal splitting patterns are optimized carefully to lower the fiber count and thus the cost of cables.