NETWORK INTERFACE DEVICE AND IMPROVED ROUTING DEVICE

A configurable wireless access device is provided. Among other things, a wireless protocol may offer the use of multiple channels on a frequency spectrum. However, certain channels in certain parts of the world may be restricted, while those same channels in different geographic areas may be legal to use for wireless access device(s) and extender device(s). In examples, the wireless access device(s) may include a location transceiver, such as a global positioning satellite (GPS) transceiver, to allow the wireless access device(s) or associated systems to (a) determine the position of the wireless access device; (b) determine whether that position is within a restricted area; and (c) if so, automatically disable access to the restricted channels/bandwidth and, if not, permit access to the restricted channels/bandwidth.

BACKGROUND

As people become increasingly reliant on broadband network services, fiber-optic network connectivity, which can carry data at high speeds over long distances, is increasingly being extended to terminate at customers' premises. Fiber to the Premises (FTTP) is a form of fiber-optic communication delivery, in which an optical fiber is run in an optical distribution network from a service provider head office all the way to the premises occupied by the subscriber. In some examples, a transition box may be used on the exterior of the premises to run a drop cable to a network interface device that may be located interior to the premises.

The fiber may be terminated at the customer premises at an optical network terminal (ONT) of a network interface device. In some examples, an ONT is also referred to as an optical network unit (ONU). One or more wireless access point(s) and/or wireless extender device(s) inside of the customer premises may also be communicatively coupled to the ONT. Computing devices within the customer premises may then connect to a wireless network facilitated by the wireless access point(s) (and any wireless extender device(s)) to connect to the service provider's network. It is with respect to this general technical environment that aspects of the present application are directed.

SUMMARY

In aspects, the present application describes a wireless access device, comprising: at least one processing circuit; and memory, operatively connected to the at least one processing circuit and storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processing circuit, cause the wireless access device to perform a method. In examples, the method comprises: sensing location data for the wireless access device; providing the location data to a provider network; receiving, based on the location data, configuration information; and applying the configuration information, including automatically disabling at least one wireless channel based on the received configuration data.

In other aspects, the present application also describes a method, comprising: receiving location data regarding a location of a wireless access device; determining, from the location data, the location of the wireless access device; obtaining restricted bandwidth information, wherein the restricted bandwidth information defines at least one restricted bandwidth area; determining, based on the location of the wireless access device and the restricted bandwidth information, configuration information for the wireless access device; and providing the configuration information to the wireless access device, wherein the configuration information is configured to cause the wireless access device to automatically disable at least one wireless channel at the wireless access device.

In still other aspects, the present application also describes a method, comprising: sensing, by a wireless access device, location data for the wireless access device; providing the location data to a provider network; receiving, based on the location data, configuration information; and applying the configuration information to the wireless access device, including automatically disabling at least one wireless channel based on the received configuration data.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Among other aspects, a self-regulating wireless access device may be provided. Among other things, a wireless protocol (such as Wi-Fi 7) may offer the use of multiple channels on a frequency spectrum. However, certain channels in certain parts of the world may be restricted, while those same channels in different geographic areas may be legal to use for wireless access point(s) and extender device(s). In examples, the wireless access point(s) may include a location transceiver, such as a global positioning satellite (GPS) transceiver, to allow the wireless access point(s) or associated systems to (a) determine the position of the wireless access point; (b) determine whether that position is within a restricted area; and (c) if so, automatically disable access to the restricted channels/bandwidth and, if not, permit access to the restricted channels/bandwidth. These and other examples will be explained in more detail below with respect to the figures.

FIG.1illustrates an example environment100that may include a network interface device (NID)108, which may be coupled to mount, such as a NID bracket110(examples of which are described in detail below with respect toFIGS.2-10). In some examples, the NID108may be provided by or otherwise be associated with a network service provider116. The network service provider116may provide network access, via a network104(or combination of networks), to the NID108. For example, the network service provider116may provide wiring/cables118that enable a customer to access the network104via the NID108. The NID108may serve as an interface between the cables/wiring118provided by the network service provider116and the wiring on-premises102, and the NID bracket110may generally operate to secure the NID108to a mounting surface124(e.g., a wall, a low voltage box, a media panel) at a premises102. The premises102, for example, may be a home, a multi-dwelling unit, a business, or other location at which network access is desired.

The wiring/cables118provided by the network service provider116may include fiber-optic cable (sometimes referred to herein as fiber or fiber cable), copper cable, and/or other physical links/circuits that enable customers to access the network104via the NID108. As mentioned above, fiber cable118can carry download and upload data at symmetrical high speeds over long distances using pulses of light. With Fiber to the Premises (FTTP) network connectivity, such as shown in the example illustrated inFIG.1, feed and distribution cable118amay be run from an optical line terminal (OLT)105to a transition box106, which may be installed outside the premises102. For instance, the transition box106may be used as a termination point for the feeder cable118ato connect with a first end (not shown) of a drop cable118b. According to an example, the drop cable118bmay be run from the transition box106to the NID bracket110, on which an optical network terminal (ONT)115(e.g., embodied as the NID108) may be mounted. For example, a fiber network connection may not be able to connect to personal premises equipment (e.g., routers (e.g., wireless access point112), computing devices114). Thus, the NID108may be a network access device that comprises an ONT115. According to an aspect, the NID bracket110may be configured to receive the drop cable118b, including a second end of the drop cable118band, in some examples, excess drop cable118c. In some examples, the NID bracket110may be further configured to store the excess drop cable118cand interconnect the second end of the drop cable118band a first end of a jumper cable122that may have a second end received by the NID108in a Wide Area Network (WAN) port. In some examples, the NID108may be installed exterior to the premises102. In other examples, the NID108may be installed interior to the premises102. The NID108, for example, may be configured to transmit data received from the cable118to interior wiring (IW)126connected to the wireless access point112(e.g., a router or gateway), which can then connect to one or more computing devices114associated with the premises102.

When the NID108has been coupled to the network104(e.g., via a WAN port associated with the NID108), network access may be provided to the premises102via the wireless access point112. In some examples, the wireless access point112may be included in the NID108. For example, the NID108may have both WAN modem capabilities to connect to the network104and router capabilities for providing wired and/or wireless network access to one or more computing devices114associated with the premises102. In other examples, the wireless access point112may be a device separate from the NID108, and may operate as a mesh network device, a router or other such network device that provides wired and/or wireless (WI-FI) network access to the one or more computing devices114. An example NID108that can be incorporated in the environment100is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/569,666 titled “SMART NETWORK INTERFACE DEVICE” filed Jan. 6, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. For example, the NID108may operate as an interface between the network104provided by the network service provider116and one or more wireless access points112associated with the premises102, where the NID108may have at least one port (e.g., ethernet port) through which the wireless access point112can be communicatively coupled to the NID108via internal wiring (IW)126, such as an ethernet cable.

With reference now toFIGS.2-10, various views of an example NID bracket110are illustrated and are described.FIG.2illustrates a front-left isometric view,FIG.3illustrates a back-right view,FIG.4illustrates a front view,FIG.5illustrates a right-side view, andFIG.6illustrates a back view of the NID bracket110according to an example. As shown, the NID bracket110may be generally rectangular in shape and may include a back plate220having a plurality of sidewalls222a-d(generally,222) (e.g., a top sidewall222a, a right sidewall222b, a bottom sidewall222c, and a left sidewall222d). A front surface228of the back plate220and interior surfaces230a-d(generally,230) of the sidewalls222may define an interior housing200of the NID bracket110. A back surface232(shown inFIGS.3and6) of the back plate220and exterior surfaces234a-d(generally,234) of the sidewalls222may define the exterior surfaces of the NID bracket110. The NID bracket110may be constructed of various types of materials. In one illustrative example, the NID bracket110may be constructed of a polycarbonate or polycarbonate blend material, which, for example, may be shaped into the NID bracket110by an injection molding processing method.

In some examples, the NID bracket110may include a plurality of device attachment points204a-d(generally,204) disposed on the front side of the NID bracket110that may be used to removably affix a NID108to the NID bracket110. According to one example and as shown inFIGS.2and4, a plurality of protrusions218a-d(generally,218) may protrude inwardly from the interior surfaces230a-dof the right and left sidewalls222b,222d, and each attachment point204may extend forwardly from a front-facing surface of the protrusions218. For example, the attachment points204may be aligned with and be shaped to be slidably received by a plurality of slide tracks that may be included in the NID108. The NID108may be removably secured to the NID bracket110by sliding the attachment points204into the plurality of slide tracks, which may enclose the internal housing200of the NID bracket110. In other examples, a NID108may be attached to the NID bracket110via another attachment method. In some examples, a lock screw may further be used to further secure the NID108to the NID bracket110.

In some examples, a plurality of attachment openings208a,208b(generally,208) may be defined into the back plate220, through which a fastener (e.g., a screw) may be extended to fasten the NID bracket110to a mounting surface124. According to an example and as shown, the attachment openings208may have a cross shape, which may allow for alignment flexibility both horizontally and vertically. As described above, the mounting surface124may include a wall, a low voltage box, or a media panel. According to one example, the attachment openings208a,208bmay be positioned in the back plate220such that the attachment openings208a,208bmay align with attachment openings of a single gang low voltage box or mounting bracket that may be installed in the mounting surface124. In other examples, other attachment means may be used to attach the NID bracket110to the mounting surface124. For example, and with reference toFIGS.3,6, and9, one or more flat surfaces201a-b(generally,201) (shown inFIGS.3and6) may be formed into or otherwise provided on the back surface232of the back plate220, which may be adapted to receive a hook-and-loop fastener203a,b(generally203) (shown inFIG.9), adhesive strip, or other attachment member.

According to another example, a thickness of the back plate220and a height of the sidewalls222may be sized such that when the NID108is attached to the NID bracket110, the NID108and NID bracket110may fit within a standard sized media panel enclosure. In an illustrative example, a depth of the NID bracket110, measured from the back surface232to the top of the sidewalls222, may range from approximately 10-15 mm. In another illustrative example, the depth of the NID bracket110, measured from the back surface232to the top of the sidewalls222, may be approximately 12.5 mm.

With reference toFIGS.2,3,4,6,7,9, and10, the NID bracket110may define a cable port202through which a portion of drop cable118may enter/exit the interior housing200of the NID bracket100. In some examples, the cable port202may be disposed on the bottom sidewall222cof the NID bracket110. In other examples, the cable port202may be disposed elsewhere on a surface of NID bracket110, such as at the top222a, right222b, or left sidewalls222d, or the back plate220. As described above, the portion of cable118may include a portion of drop cable118brun from the transition box106that may be located exterior to the premises102.

In some implementations, and with reference toFIGS.2,3,4, and6, a perforation may be formed into the back plate220, which may define an alternative cable port210. The perforation may surround an area of the back plate220, which, when a force is applied to the area, may allow for the area surrounded by the perforation to be easily removed and for the alternative cable port210to be exposed. For example, in some cases, the NID bracket110may be installed on one side of a mounting surface124, and the transition box106, from which the drop fiber118bentering the NID bracket110may be received, may be located on the opposite side of the mounting surface124approximately in alignment with the NID bracket110. Thus, in some examples, the drop fiber118bexiting the transition box106may be routed through a hole in the mounting surface124and may be extended through the alternative cable port210defined in the back plate220of the NID bracket110.

In some examples, the drop cable118b(a portion of which is shown inFIG.7) may be pre-connectorized cable. For example, the drop cable118may be a pre-measured (e.g., standard) length of cable with connectors226attached to each end. The types of connectors226may vary. In an illustrative example, the connectors226may be angled physical contact (APC) fiber connectors. Pre-connectorized drop cable118bmay offer various advantages, such as installation ease and efficiency and precision and consistency of cable termination, which may ensure that the cable meets standard guidelines and required loss measurements. However, in some cases, when a distance between the transition box106and the NID bracket110is less than the length of drop cable118b, a remaining portion of the drop cable (herein referred to as excess drop cable118c) may be left over. According to an example, the NID bracket110may be configured to store excess drop cable118cin the internal housing200.

For example, and as shown inFIG.7, the interior housing200may be configured to store a length of cable118(e.g., drop cable118b, excess drop cable118c) around a reel236internal to the housing200. According to an example, the reel236may be defined by the top surface232of the back plate220and the outwardly facing (e.g., toward the sidewalls222) sides of one or more raised reel walls206a-d(generally,206) extending from the front surface228of the back plate220and forming a generally elliptical core around which the length of fiber118may be wound for storage. In some examples, the reel wall(s)206may be configured such that the core formed by the outwardly facing sides of the reel wall(s)206may have a radius that is greater than a minimum bend radius of the cable118. In the examples shown inFIGS.2and4, the NID bracket110may include a top reel wall206aextending forward from a top portion of the front surface228of the back plate220, a right reel wall206bextending forward from a right-mid portion of the front surface228, a bottom reel wall206cextending forward from a bottom portion of the front surface228, and a left reel wall206dextending forward from a left-mid portion of the front surface228. In some examples, the top reel wall206aand the bottom reel wall206cmay include one or more tabs238a-dthat may generally extend radially outward from a top surface of the top and bottom reel walls206a,206ctowards the sidewalls222, which may further define the reel236within which the drop cable118band/or excess drop cable118cmay be positioned.

In some implementations, and with reference toFIGS.2,3,4,6, and7, a perforation may be formed into the back plate220, which may define an alternative cable port210for receiving the drop cable118band excess drop cable118c. The perforation may surround an area of the back plate220, which, when a force is applied to the area, may allow for the area within the perforation to be easily removed and for the alternative cable port210to be opened or exposed. For example, in some cases, the NID bracket110may be installed on one side of a mounting surface124, and the transition box106, from which the drop cable118bentering the NID bracket110may be received, may be located on the opposite side of a wall and in approximate alignment with the NID bracket110. Thus, in some examples, the drop cable118bexiting the transition box106may be routed through a hole in and may be extended through the alternative cable port210defined in the back plate220of the NID bracket110. In some examples, the reel walls206are discontinuous. That is, one or more spaces240a-d(generally,240) may be defined between at least two reel walls206, which, when the drop cable118band any excess drop cable118bis extended through the alternative cable port210, may provide a channel through which the drop cable118bcan be further routed and wound around the reel236defined by the reel walls206.

In some examples, the NID bracket110may further include one or more secure points214a-c(generally,214) formed in the front surface228of the back plate220that may be used to help secure drop cable118band any excess drop cable118bstored in the interior housing200of the NID bracket110. According to an example, each secure point214may define an opening through which a cable tie may be extended. For example, the cable tie may be wrapped around the drop cable118band/or excess drop cable118band an end of the cable tie may be extended through the opening defined in the secure points214for securing the drop cable118band/or excess drop cable118bto the NID bracket110. In some examples, a first secure point214amay be located between the cable port202and the outward facing side of the bottom reel wall206c, a second secure point214bmay be positioned between the left206dand top206areel walls, and a third secure point214cmay be positioned between the right206band bottom206creel walls. In one example, the drop cable118bmay be run from the transition box106, extended through the cable port202, and routed by and secured to the first secure point214a. The drop cable118bmay be further routed along the outward facing side of the left reel wall206dby the second secure point214b, along the outward facing sides of the top reel wall206aand right reel wall206bby the third secure point214ctoward a coupler receptacle224, where a connector226attached to the end of the drop cable118bmay be connected to a coupler242(described below with reference toFIG.7). When the drop cable118bhas been routed past the right reel wall206band the third secure point214c, and when there is excess drop cable118cleft, the excess drop cable118cmay be wrapped, e.g., clockwise around the reel236and secured at the second214band third214cattachment points by a cable tie. Or, in another example, the alternative cable port210in the back plate220may be opened as described above, and the drop cable118bmay be run from the transition box106, through a wall, and extended through the alternative cable port210. The drop cable118bmay be further routed through an opening240defined between two reel walls206(or defined through a reel wall206) to the reel236, where the cable (and any excess drop cable118c) may be wound clockwise around the reel236to extend the end of the drop cable118bto the coupler242in the coupler receptacle224. The drop cable118band any excess drop cable118cmay then be secured to the NID bracket110via wrapping a cable tie around the cable and securing the cable to the secure points214.

With reference toFIGS.2,4, and7, in some examples, the NID bracket110may include a coupler receptacle224. For example, the coupler receptacle224may be formed into a sidewall222and may be shaped and configured to receive and securely hold the coupler242mentioned above. According to one example, the coupler receptacle224may be formed into the bottom sidewall222cand may include a pair of sides244a,244b. For example, a left side244amay be configured to receive a first flange209aof the coupler242and a right side244bmay be configured to receive a second flange209bof the coupler242. In some examples, a first protrusion246amay extend from a top wall of the left side244a, which may engage a first bore defined in the first flange209aof the coupler242, and a second protrusion246bmay extend from a top wall of the right side244b, which may engage a second bore defined in the second flange209bof the coupler242. For example, the coupler242may be snapped into the coupler receptacle224, with the pair of flanges209a,209binserted into the pair of sides244a,244band held securely by the protrusions246inserted into the bores of the pair of flanges209a,209b.

According to some examples, the coupler242may interconnect the connector226of the drop cable118bto a first connector248aat one end of the jumper cable122, which may connect to the NID108via a second connector248blocated at the other end of the jumper cable122. For example, rather than connecting the drop cable118bdirectly to the NID108, the drop cable118bmay be securely coupled to the coupler242, which may be securely held in the coupler receptacle224included in the NID bracket110. The jumper cable122may be exposed, which may be handled by the customer in various circumstances, such as to troubleshoot the NID108, remove or replace the NID108, etc. Thus, if breakage of a cable were to occur due to customer-handling, the breakage may be more likely to occur to the exposed jumper cable122, which may be a short length (e.g., approximately 6 in.) of cable, and which may be less costly to replace than the more-protected drop cable118b.

The coupler242may be one of various types of couplers. According to an example, the coupler242type may correspond with the type of connector226included on the drop cable118and the type of connector248aincluded on the jumper cable122. In some examples, the coupler242may be a Subscription Channel (SC) adapter, and in further examples, the coupler242may be an SC-APC adapter. As should be understood, that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to SC-type or SC-APC-type adapters. The coupler242, for example, may include a main body205with the pair of flanges209a,209blocated on the exterior of the main body205. The flanges209a,209bmay be configured to support the coupler242in the coupler receptacle224.

The coupler242may further include a first pair of retaining clips207a,207bdisposed on the exterior of the main body205and positioned between the flanges209a,209band the top end of the coupler242. In some examples, the coupler242may further include a second pair of retaining clips211a,211bdisposed on the exterior of the main body205and positioned between the flanges209a,209band the bottom end of the coupler242. In some examples, the retaining clips207a,207b,211a,211bmay be metal springs that may be compressed against the main body205when inserting the coupler242into the coupler receptacle224, and that may decompress and spring outward when the coupler242is seated in the coupler receptacle224(with the flanges209a,209binserted into the sides244a,244band with the protrusions246a,246bextending into the bores defined in the flanges209a,209b). For example, the first pair of retaining clips207a,207bmay abut top-facing surfaces of the sides244a,244band may provide leverage against a downward pulling force of the coupler242(e.g., such as when unplugging the jumper cable122from the coupler242). Additionally, the second pair of retaining clips211a,211bmay abut top-facing surfaces of a pair of tabs213a,213bthat may extend into the coupler receptacle224from the interior surface of the bottom sidewall222c, and that may provide leverage against a downward pulling force of the coupler242.

FIG.11illustrates a method1100for providing a NID bracket110that may secure a NID108to a mounting surface124and connect the NID108to a network104according to an example. At operation1105, the NID bracket110may be provided. For example, the NID bracket110may be formed from a piece of plastic, metal, or other material. In an illustrative example, the NID bracket110may be formed into a shape described above and shown in the examples illustrated inFIGS.2-10via injection molding from a polycarbonate or polycarbonate blend material. According to an example, the NID bracket110may include a housing200defined by the front surface228of the back plate220and the interior surfaces230of a plurality of sidewalls222(e.g., the top sidewall222a, the right sidewall222b, the bottom sidewall222c, and the left sidewall222d). In some examples, the NID bracket110may further include a plurality of attachment openings208defined in the back plate220for inserting a plurality of fasteners for removably attaching the NID bracket110to a mounting surface124. In some examples, the NID bracket110may further include the cable port202defined in a sidewall configured to receive a length of drop cable118b. In some examples, the NID bracket110may further include a reel236defined by outwardly facing sides of one or more raised reel walls238extending from the front surface228of the back plate220configured to provide a core around which a portion of the length of drop cable118bcan be wound and stored. In some examples, the NID bracket110may further include the coupler receptacle224configured to hold a coupler242adapted to interconnect a second end of the drop cable118band a first end of a jumper cable122. In some examples, the NID bracket110may further include a plurality of forward extending attachment points204for removeable attachment to a NID108to the NID bracket110for securing the NID108to the mounting surface124, wherein the second end of the jumper cable122may be received in a WAN port included in the NID108. In some examples, the NID bracket110may further include one or more other components described above.

At operation1108, the NID bracket110may be attached to a mounting surface124. In one example, screws or other fasteners may be inserted through the attachment openings208defined into the back plate220. In another example, hook-and-loop fasteners203may be attached to flat surfaces201formed into the back surface232of the back plate220and then removably attached to the mounting surface124.

At operation1110, a coupler242may be inserted into the coupler receptacle224. For example, the coupler242may be inserted into and seated in the coupler receptacle224, which may include engaging the protrusions246a,246bincluded in the coupler receptacle224with the bores defined in the flanges209a,209bof the coupler242. In one example, when inserting the coupler242, the coupler242may be aligned with the coupler receptacle224such that the flanges209a,209bmay be inserted into the coupler receptacle224below the protrusions246a,246b. This may cause the retaining clips207a,207b,211a,211bto compress against the main body205when pushing the coupler242upward toward the protrusions246a,246b, until the coupler242is seated in the coupler receptacle224, where the protrusions246a,246bmay be extended through the bores defined in the flanges209a,209band the retaining clips207a,207b,211a,211bmay be decompressed and spring outward to help secure the coupler242from movement when forces may be applied (e.g., when plugging and unplugging cable connectors226,248afrom the coupler242).

At operation1115, a length of drop cable118bmay be run between a transition box106and the NID bracket110, where, in some examples, the first end of the drop cable118bmay be interconnected with the feeder and distribution cable118aat the transition box106, and the second end of the drop cable118bmay be inserted into the interior housing200of the NID bracket110. For example, the second end of the drop cable118bmay be inserted into the cable port202or alternate cable port210and routed around the reel236defined in the housing200to the coupler242. The connector226attached to the second end of the drop cable118bmay be inserted into the top end of the coupler242. In some examples, if there is an excess length of drop cable118b, the excess drop cable118cmay be wrapped around the reel236at operation1120. Additionally, one or more cable ties may be inserted through the secure points214, wrapped around the drop cable118band excess drop cable118c, and fastened.

At operation1125, a NID108may be removably attached to the NID bracket110. For example, the attachment points204extending forward on the front side of the NID bracket110may be located and shaped to be slidably received by a plurality of slide tracks that may be included in the NID108. The NID108may be removably secured to the NID bracket110by aligning the attachment points204with the slide tracks and sliding the attachment points204into the plurality of slide tracks.

At operation1130, a first connector248aof a jumper cable122may be inserted into the bottom end of the coupler242, which may interconnect the drop cable118band jumper cable122. In some examples, a second connector248bof the jumper cable122may be inserted into the NID108in a Wide Area Network (WAN) port. Accordingly, the NID108may be connected to the network104via the jumper cable122connection to the coupler242of the NID bracket110.

FIG.12illustrates an example environment1200that may include a network interface device (NID)1208, which may be coupled to a mount, such as a NID bracket1210(examples of which are described in detail below). In some examples, the NID1208may be provided by or otherwise be associated with a network service provider. The provider network1216may provide WAN (e.g., Internet) network access, including through network1204(and/or a combination of other networks), to the NID1208. In examples, the network1204may comprise an optical distribution network comprising one or more passive optical splitters, optical connectors, and optical cables that connect the OLT(s)1205to the transition box1206and/or to the NID1208. For example, the network service provider may provide wiring/cables1218that enable a customer to access the network1204and/or provider network1216through the NID1208(and in some examples, the transition box1206). The NID1208may serve as an interface between the cables/wiring1218provided by the network service provider and the wireless access device1212or a directly wired computing device1214. The NID bracket1210may generally operate to secure the NID1208to a mounting surface1224(e.g., a wall, a low voltage box, a media panel) at a premises1202. The premises1202, for example, may be a home, a multi-dwelling unit, a business, or other location at which network access is desired.

The wiring/cables1218provided by the network service provider may include fiber-optic cable (sometimes referred to herein as fiber or fiber cable), copper cable, and/or other physical links/circuits that enable customers to access the network1204via the NID1208. As mentioned above, fiber cable1218can carry download and upload data at symmetrical high speeds over long distances using pulses of light. With Fiber to the Premises (FTTP) network connectivity, such as shown in the example illustrated inFIG.12, feed and distribution cable1218amay be run (directly or indirectly) from an OLT1205through network1204to a transition box1206, which may be installed outside the premises1202. In some examples, the OLT1205is part of the provider network1216. The OLT1205may comprise multiple OLT devices. For example, a local or central office of a provider network1216may include one or more OLT devices configured to transceive optical signals according to multiple passive optical network (PON) protocols. For example, the OLTs1205may be configured to receive and transmit both gigabyte passive optical network (GPON) signals and 10-gigabyte-capable symmetric passive optical network (XGS-PON) signals. In some examples, a central office (or edge site1217) of the provider network1216may initially comprise an OLT to transceive signals according to a first PON protocol and then later be upgraded with a new (or additional) OLT to transceive signals according to a second PON protocol. In examples discussed herein, the NID1208may operate to transceive signals at the premises1202after an upgrade of an OLT1205without requiring a new NID1208to be installed at the customer premises1202.

In examples, the transition box1206may be used as a termination point for the feeder cable1218ato connect with a first end (not shown) of a drop cable1218b. According to an example, the drop cable1218bmay be run from the transition box1206to the NID bracket1210, on which an optical network terminal (ONT)1215(e.g., embodied as part of the NID1208) may be mounted. For example, a fiber network connection may not be able to connect to personal premises equipment (e.g., routers (e.g., wireless access device1212), computing devices1214). Thus, in examples, the NID1208may be a network access device that comprises an ONT1215. According to an aspect, the NID bracket1210may be configured to receive the drop cable1218b, including a second end of the drop cable1218band, in some examples, excess drop cable1218c. In some examples, the NID bracket1210may be further configured to store the excess drop cable1218cand interconnect the second end of the drop cable1218bto the NID1208. In some examples, as explained further below, no jumper cable between the drop cable1218band the NID1208may be necessary. In some examples, the NID1208may be installed exterior to the premises1202. In other examples, the NID1208may be installed within the interior of the premises1202. In other examples, the NID1208may comprise all hardened elements that are suitable for indoor or outdoor use in extreme temperatures (e.g., I-temp standards compliant).

The NID1208, in examples, may be configured to transmit data received from the cable1218to internal wiring1226(such as an Ethernet cable) connected to the wireless access device1212(e.g., a router or gateway), which can then connect wirelessly, in examples, to one or more extender device(s)1213and/or to one or more computing devices1214associated with the premises1202. In other examples, one or more computing devices1214may be directly wired into a port of the NID1208.

When the NID1208has been coupled to the network1204(e.g., via a WAN port associated with the NID1208), network access may be provided to the premises1202via the wireless access device1212and/or extender device(s)1213. In some examples, the wireless access device1212may be included in the NID1208. For example, the NID1208may have both WAN modem capabilities to connect to the network1204(and provider network1216) and router capabilities for providing wired and/or wireless network access to one or more computing devices1214associated with the premises1202. In other examples, the wireless access device1212may be a device separate from the NID1208, and may operate as a mesh network device, a router, a gateway, or other such network device that provides wired and/or wireless (WI-FI) network access to the one or more computing devices1214.

An example NID1208that can be incorporated in the environment1200is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/569,666 titled “SMART NETWORK INTERFACE DEVICE” filed Jan. 6, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Another example NID1208is described below with respect toFIG.17. In examples, the NID1208may operate as an interface between the network1204provided and one or more wireless access points1212associated with the premises1202, where the NID1208may have at least one port (e.g., Ethernet port) through which the wireless access device1212can be communicatively coupled to the NID1208via internal wiring (IW)1226, such as an Ethernet cable.

In some examples, the NID1208may be similar to NID108. One alternative example of a NID1208is illustrated inFIG.13. In this example ofFIG.13, the NID1208has a smaller form factor and is removably attached to the NID bracket1210via connection points around an outer edge of the NID1208. For example, the NID bracket1210, as shown inFIG.13, may include multiple protrusions that cooperate with receiving elements formed in or on the NID1208to allow the NID1208to be snapped onto or off of the NID bracket1210. When the NID1208is attached to the NID bracket1210, the NID1208completes a surface over which a face plate1230(seeFIG.14) is attached to cover the NID bracket1210and the NID1208. As such, when the unitary face plate1230(see, e.g.,FIG.14) is installed, the NID bracket1210and NID1208appear as a single unit. In examples, the NID1208may include an ONT1215that is directly connectable to the drop cable1218b, the excess portion of which (1218c) may be looped around the one or more reel walls1206before being connected via a connector1227to the NID1208. In examples, the reel walls1206and other drop-cable management features of NID bracket1210may be similar to the reel walls206and drop-cable management features of NID bracket110inFIGS.1-10.

In examples, the jumper cable122, described above, can be omitted. For example, the connector1227can be secured to the NID bracket1210such that, when the NID1208is installed (e.g., snapped onto the NID bracket1210), the connector1227is automatically connected to the ONT1215of NID1208. For example, contacts of connector1227may be exposed and automatically connect to contacts of a receiving connector of the ONT1215when the NID1208is secured to the NID bracket1210. In other examples, the connector1227may be manually plugged into the NID1208after the NID1208is snapped onto the NID bracket1210.

In examples like depicted inFIG.13, because the NID1208is modularly constructed, it can be swapped out for a new or updated NID1208with relatively little labor. For example, face plate1230can be removed, the drop cable1218bcan be disconnected (if necessary), the internal wiring (e.g., Ethernet cable)1226can be disconnected, and then the NID1208can be removed by releasing the tabs on the NID bracket1210that hold the NID1208in place. A new NID1208can then be snapped into place, the two cables (drop cable1218band Ethernet cable1226) are reattached (if necessary), and the face plate1230can be snapped back into place. In examples, this procedure can easily be performed by a customer rather than the service provider being required to dispatch a technician.

In some examples, particularly if the premises1202is a multi-dwelling unit (MDU), the system1200may also include a virtual MDU switch, which can accommodate multiple (e.g.,24) NIDs1208and multiple (e.g.,24) Ethernet connections. In examples, this may allow a drop cable to terminate in multiple Ethernet connections to different customers, which are multiplexed using the switch. For example, multiple wireless access points1212can be supported to create multiple wireless networks that can be accessed by multiple computing devices1214of different customers within the same premises.

In examples, the NID1208may include a micro-controller and other circuitry that fully virtualizes passive optical network protocol capability (such as XGS-PON (also known as the G.987 standard)), which (among other things) allows the NID1208to have very low power requirements. In examples, the NID1208is powered via a Power over Ethernet connection to a wireless access device1212, thereby freeing up a power outlet. For example, internal wiring1226may comprise an Ethernet cable. The wireless access device1212may include a power supply that is adapted to plug into a wall outlet, as shown inFIG.14. The wireless access device1212may also be adapted to act as an Ethernet power sourcing device for the network interface device1208to which it may be connected, e.g., by an Ethernet cable. For example, the NID1208may include an Ethernet power receiver, and the internal wiring1226may comprise a high-quality Ethernet cable (E.g., CAT5e, CAT6, or greater).

In examples, the wireless access device1212comprises a wireless routing device, such as a router or gateway. The wireless access device1212may facilitate a wireless local area network (LAN) for the premises1202. In examples, one or more extender devices1213may also be utilized to extend the reach of the wireless LAN. In examples, extender device(s)1213may comprise one or more wireless booster, repeater, extender, and/or mesh router. In other examples, multiple wireless access points1212may be used in a premises1202. In examples, the wireless access point(s)1212, the extender device(s)1213, and the computing device(s)1214communicate wirelessly using a wireless protocol, such as Wi-Fi. In examples, the wireless access point(s)1212, the extender device(s)1213, and the computing device(s)1214communicate wirelessly using the Wi-Fi 7 protocol.

Among other things, a wireless protocol (such as Wi-Fi 7) may offer the use of multiple channels on a frequency spectrum. However, certain channels in certain parts of the world may be restricted, while those same channels in different geographic areas may be legal to use for wireless access point(s) and extender device(s). For example, 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi has 14 channels, but only channels 1 through 11 are legal to use in the United States in full-power mode, while channels 12-14 are not generally useable in the United States. By contrast, channels 12 and 13 are legal to use, for example, in Europe and Japan. Further, certain additional channels may be available for use, but not within a certain threshold distance from particular locations (such as airports or military bases, etc.).

In examples, the wireless access point(s)1212may include a location transceiver, such as a global positioning satellite (GPS) transceiver, to allow the wireless access point(s)1212or associated systems to (a) determine the position of the wireless access point; (b) determine whether that position is within a restricted area; and (c) if so, automatically disable access to the restricted channels/bandwidth and, if not, permit access to the restricted channels/bandwidth. A similar location transceiver may be provided in the extender device(s)1213.

For example, a wireless access device1212may periodically report its location data (e.g., current GPS position information) to the provider network1216. Provider network1216may comprise, for example, one or more wireless access control server1250the receives reported GPS positions from various wireless access points1212connected to the provider network1216. In other examples, the provider network1216may use other information to estimate the location of the wireless access point, including determining the location of the transition box1206, determining the location of the OLT1205to which the network interface device1208is connected, determining a stored address for a customer to which the network interface device1208is provisioned, etc. The provider network1216may store, or have access to, restricted bandwidth information, including geolocation information for areas in which certain bandwidth or channels are not permitted for civilian use. In examples, the provider network1216(or another system available to the provider network1216or the wireless access device1212) may then send a signal to the wireless access device1212to cause the wireless access device1212to automatically disable the use of any bandwidth or channels not currently permitted for use in the area where the wireless access device1212reported its location (or the estimated location of the wireless access device1212). For example, a wireless access control server1250of the provider network1216may send control signals to such wireless access points1212to limit their use of certain channels based on their determined locations. In examples, the disabling of the prohibited channels based on the determined location of the wireless access device1212is performed programmatically in response to the signal from the provider network1212and does not require any user interaction.

In examples, the restricted bandwidth information may include longitude and latitude information to define restricted areas, including national, state, or municipal borders, areas around sensitive/restricted locations (e.g., within 30 miles of an airport or military facility), etc. In examples, the restricted bandwidth information stored by (or available to) the provider network1216may be regularly updated as laws and/or restricted areas change. In this manner, a wireless access device1212can be equipped to operate in all available bandwidths/channels; however, depending on where the wireless access device1212is deployed, the operation of the wireless access device1212may be automatically restricted to only the bandwidth/channels allowed in that area. This is advantageous for a service provider in that the wireless access device1212automatically adapts to changing rules/restrictions without hardware changes or upgrades. Further, this permits customers to move wireless access points1212from one premises to another, while the wireless access device1212is able to self-configure for use of allowable, non-restricted bandwidth/channels at the new premises location(s). Further, adding a geolocation transceiver to the wireless access device1212permits the service provider greater visibility into the location of inventoried devices connected to its network.

As discussed, in examples, the NID1208may comprise relatively low-cost hardware and minimal memory and processing capability by moving management, control, and certain services normally performed by the NID1208to a cloud-based environment. For example, the provider network1216may include multiple edge sites (also referred to as edge networks or edge clouds)1217. In examples, edge sites1217may be geographically dispersed and include computing and storage resources and services that are geographically or logically near computing devices requesting such services. For example, the NID1208may be configured to communicate with the edge site1217that is geographically or logically closest to it within the provider network1216in order to reduce latency and unnecessary traffic across provider network1216. In examples, the OLT1205may be located within an edge site1217.

In examples, each edge site1217may include an edge orchestrator and a virtual NID (also referred to as a virtual CPE), which may operate as the digital twin of the NID1208. In examples, the NID1208may operate relatively low-consumption microservices that provide information from the NID1208back to the edge site1217. The edge orchestrator may comprise a software-defined network (SDN) controller that operates to pull such information from the NID1208and/or the virtual NID at edge site1217and provide it to other devices or services (e.g., a core network orchestrator). For example, the NID1208and/or virtual NID at edge site1217may report any number of operating parameters, such as inventory information, device status, performance, statistics, events, faults, log data, alarms, network topology data, etc. The edge orchestrator may also be configured to implement any configuration changes at the NID1208or the virtual NID. Further, the edge orchestrator may coordinate any testing of configuration changes on the virtual NID or NID1208prior to implementing them. In examples, in order to add additional capacity to the NID1208(such as additional RAM or other memory, or certain applications or services), those resource can be added more cheaply and quickly to the virtual NID at the edge site1217than to the NID1208.

In examples, the majority of processing takes place the virtual machines resident at the edge site(s)1217, rather than at the NID1208. This allows for a massive number upgrades, updates, security patches, etc. to be rolled out in a very short amount of time because the edge site(s)1217are readily accessible to the administrators of the provider network1216, and the virtual machines can be vendor agnostic (not tied to the firmware or other restrictions of the particular vendor(s) of the customer premise equipment, such as NID1208). In examples, the virtual NIDs of the edge site(s) can be architected to automatically report their operating parameters, rather than having to poll NIDs1208using a different protocol for each vendor of the NID1208.

In addition, the information that is reported by the NID1208and/or the virtual NID may be fed to an artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) platform1255. The AI/ML platform1255may use information from both the virtual machines of the edge site(s)1217and telemetry data from the NID1208(or other customer premise equipment) in order to predict and/or monitor the effects of configuration changes on the networks and equipment of provider network1216as a whole, or of any portion thereof. In addition, the edge orchestrator (e.g., SDN controller) of edge site1217can be used to dynamically provision and/or reconfigure the NID1208, or other customer premise device(s), as needed. For example, the edge orchestrator (e.g., SDN controller) of edge site1217can be used to dynamically provision and/or reconfigure the NID1208to operate in a different PON mode (e.g., according to a different PON protocol), as needed and as explained below.

FIG.15depicts an example method1500according to aspects of the present application. In examples, some or all of the operations of method1500may be performed by one or more wireless access control server, such as the wireless access control server1250ofFIG.12.

In this example, the method begins with operation1505, where location data for a wireless access device is received. In some examples, the location data may comprise location data (e.g., longitude and latitude coordinates) from a global positioning satellite (GPS) transceiver of the wireless access device. In other examples, the location data may comprise location data for a device to which the wireless access device is operatively connected, such as NID1208, transition box1206, OLT1205, etc. Further, in some examples, the receiving of the location data may comprise querying, by a wireless access control server of a provider network, the wireless access device for the location data and receiving such location data in response to such query. In some examples, the query may be triggered by the wireless access device being connected to the provider network (e.g., by being operatively connected to NID1208, or otherwise.

Flow proceeds to operation1508, where the location of the wireless access device is determined based on the location data. For example, operation1508may comprise extracting longitude and latitude information from a message received from the wireless access device. In other examples, operation1508may comprise estimating a location of the wireless access device from stored location data associated with one or more other network elements to which the wireless access device is operatively connected.

Flow proceeds to operation1510, where restricted bandwidth information defining a restricted bandwidth area is obtained. In examples, the wireless access control server1250may store, or have access to, the restricted bandwidth information. The restricted bandwidth information may include, in examples, the longitudinal and latitudinal boundaries of a restricted area and an identification of the one or more channels over which wireless communication is prohibited. For example, the restricted bandwidth information may define a restricted area in which an airport is located and bandwidth ranges in which private communications are prohibited while within the restricted area. The wireless access control server1250may also store information mapping restricted bandwidth information to defined channels for certain wireless standards (such as WiFi) to determine which wireless channels of a wireless access device would be prohibited from being operated within the restricted area.

Flow proceeds to operation1515, where configuration information is determined for the wireless access device. In some examples, a determination is made whether the location of the wireless access device is within a restricted area. If not, then the configuration information may include no limitations on the wireless channels that are eligible to be used, or a null set of configuration information may be determined. If the wireless access device is determined to be located within a restricted area, however, the configuration information may include instructions to disable any wireless channels that are prohibited from being used within the determined restricted area.

Flow proceeds to operation1520, where the configuration information is sent to the wireless access device. In the depicted example, the configuration information includes instructions to cause the wireless access device to disable at least one wireless channel that the wireless access device would otherwise be configured to be capable of using. In examples, the disabling of the restricted channel(s) happens automatically, without requiring user intervention, so that the wireless access device can remain compliant with any restrictions known to the service provider.

Flow proceeds to operation1525, where updated location data is received. In examples, if the wireless access device is disconnected in a first location and reconnected in a second location (e.g., the owner of the wireless access device has moved to a new home or business location), then new location data may be received. In some examples, the generation of location data may be triggered upon startup of the wireless access device, or upon determining that a wireless access device has been connected to the provider network in a new location (e.g., connected to a different NID1208, transition box1206, or OLT1205, etc.). Updated location data can be generated and received in a manner similar to operation1505.

Flow proceeds to operation1530, where an updated location for the wireless access device and updated configuration data are determined. Operation1530may comprise similar operations as operations1508,1510, and1515, among other possibilities.

Flow proceeds to operation1535, where updated configuration information is provided to the wireless access device. For example, the determined updated location of the wireless access device may result in a change to the configuration information. For example, where the initial configuration information may have caused a first channel to be disabled due to the initial location of the wireless access device, the wireless access device may have been moved to a second location that is not within a restricted area. In this instance, the first channel that was previously disabled may be re-enabled automatically by the implementation of the updated configuration information. Or, in other examples, the update in determined location may cause updated configuration information to be generated that disables at least one additional channel than was originally disabled.

In examples, some or all of the operations of method1500may be repeated for additional wireless access devices. For example, a second wireless access device that is in a different location from the first wireless access device may receive different configuration information (causing disabling of a different selection or number of channels than the configuration information for the first wireless access device).

FIG.16depicts an example method1600according to aspects of the present application. In examples, some or all of the operations of method1600may be performed by one or more wireless access devices, such as the wireless access device1212ofFIG.12.

In this example, the method begins with operation1605, where location data is sensed by a wireless access device. For example, the wireless access device may include a GPS transceiver that is configured to sense longitude and latitude of the wireless access device. In other examples, operation1605may comprise determining location data based on determining a connection to an optical network terminal and determining a location of the optical network terminal.

Flow proceeds to operation1610, where location data is provided to a provider network. For example, the wireless access device may transmit the location data to a wireless access control server at the provider network. As discussed, this may be performed as part of a startup procedure when the wireless access device is first turned on and/or connected to a provider network (e.g., through a NID). In other examples, the location data may be provided to a computing module or system on the wireless access device itself. That is, the wireless access device may be configured to self-regulate even without being instructed to do so by the provider network. For example, the wireless access device may store coordinates for restricted geographic areas and generate its own configuration data based on whether the sensed location data is within a restricted area. For example, the wireless access device may be periodically updated by the provider network with any changes to coordinates for restricted geographic areas, but otherwise the method1600may be performed without interaction with the provider network, in some examples.

Flow proceeds to operation1615, where configuration information is received that is based on the location data. As discussed, in some examples, the wireless access control server may use the location data from the wireless access device to determine whether the wireless access device is located within a restricted geographic area. The configuration information may be based on that determination and include instructions of whether (and how) to disable certain wireless channels of the wireless access device to avoid using prohibited bandwidths in the wireless access device's current location. As discussed, this operation1615may also be performed by the wireless access device itself.

Flow proceeds to operation1620, where the configuration information is applied to automatically disable at least one wireless channel of the wireless access device. For example, if indicated by the configuration information received at operation1615, the wireless access device may disable one or more channels that the hardware and software configurations of the wireless access device might otherwise permit. In example, such disabling may occur programmatically and without user intervention.

Flow proceeds to operation1625, where updated location data is sensed. In examples, operation1625may comprise similar operations to operation1605and may sense updated location information for the wireless access device after such device is reconnected in a different location, upon restarting of the device, or otherwise.

At operation1630, the updated location data may be provided. For example, operation1630may include similar operations as operation1610, but based on the sensed updated location data.

Flow proceeds to operation1635, where updated configuration information is received. As discussed, the updated configuration information may be different from the initial configuration information depending on whether the updated location is (or is not) within an area with a similar set of restrictions as the initial location.

Flow proceeds to operation1640, where the updated configuration information is applied. As discussed, the application of the updated configuration information may result in the automatic re-enablement of a previously disabled channel and/or in the disabling of one or more additional channels.

FIG.17depicts internal components of an example of NID1208. In the example depicted inFIG.17, the NID1208may accommodate the receipt and transmission of optical signals according to multiple standards in a single customer premises device. For example, the NID1208may be configured to receive and transmit both gigabyte passive optical network (GPON) signals and 10-gigabyte-capable symmetric passive optical network (XGS-PON) signals in a single device. This permits the network service provider, among other things, to deliver one NID1208to any customer premises, whether or not the particular customer premises is currently being served by an OLT providing GPON service or XGS-PON service. As a network is upgraded (e.g., from GPON service to XGS-PON service), the network service provider can connect the customer premises to an OLT providing the upgraded service (e.g., XGS-PON) and then programmatically alter the NID1208to transceive signals according to the upgraded standard without requiring a new NID1208to be delivered or installed at the customer premises.

In the depicted, nonexclusive example ofFIG.17, the NID1208may be connectable to fiber optic cable1218(seeFIG.12) via an optical splitting apparatus (OSA)1702. In a downstream direction, OSA1702may include circuitry to receive an optical signal from the provider network1216via fiber optic cable1218, and divide the signal based on its wavelength before forwarding the divided signals to different laser drivers (e.g., first laser driver1704and second laser driver1706). In an upstream direction, OSA1702may also be configured to receive signals from different laser drivers (e.g., first laser driver1704and second laser driver1706) at different wavelengths and output a combined signal on fiber optic cable1218.

First laser driver1704may receive downstream signals optical signals within a first wavelength band from OSA1702, while second laser driver1706may receive optical signals within a second wavelength band (different from the first wavelength band) from the OSA1702. For downstream data transfer (from the provider network through OSA1702), the first laser driver1704and second laser driver1706may include circuitry to convert the optical signals to electrical signals to be outputted to the receiving multiplexer1708. In examples, the first laser driver1704and second laser driver1706may include one or more high-speed photo diodes or transistors to receive the optical signal and output a radio-frequency (RF) electrical signal output.

For upstream data transfer, the first laser driver1704may be configured to convert an electrical signal received from the transmitting demultiplexer1708and convert the electrical signal to an optical signal within the first wavelength band. Such signal is then transmitted to the OSA1702and then to the provider network on optical cable1218. Similarly, for upstream data transfer, the second laser driver1706may be configured to convert an electrical signal received from the transmitting demultiplexer1708and convert the electrical signal to an optical signal within the second wavelength band. Such signal is also then transmitted to the OSA1702and then to the provider network on optical cable1218. Both of the first laser driver1704and second laser driver1706may include laser diodes to emit light at a specific wavelength. The electrical signal is used to modulate the intensity of the laser light, which in turn encodes the data onto the optical signal.

In examples, the first and second wavelength bands are specific to particular PON protocols, such as GPON or XGS-PON. For example, GPON employs a downstream wavelength of 1480-1500 nm and an upstream wavelength of 1290-1330 nm, while XGS-PON employs a downstream wavelength of 1575-1580 nm and an upstream wavelength of 1260-1280 nm. In examples, the OSA1702may split out downstream signals within the wavelength band associated with GPON and transmit those to the first laser driver1704, while sending signals within the wavelength band associated with XGS-PON to second laser driver1706. In an upstream data transfer, the laser driver that is specific to a particular PON protocol that is currently being employed may be chosen (e.g., by sending a signal to the transmitting demultiplexer1710to output the electrical signal received from processing circuit1712to the correct laser driver1704,1706for that PON protocol).

Processing circuit1712may comprise one or more computing devices, such as a system-on-a-chip, comprising at least one processor and associated memory, storage, and communications ports and connectors. For example, processing circuit1712may comprise some or all of the operating environment described with respect toFIG.20.

In examples, processing circuit1712may be powered by power system1714, which may comprise one or more power cables, transformers, or other power-management circuitry to permit the processing circuit1712and the NID1208to receive and utilize sufficient power to function.

Processing circuit1712may also be operatively connected to a first user port1716and a second user port1718. In examples, user ports1716and1718are Ethernet ports that permit the NID to be connected by a wired connection to one or more client devices and/or wireless access devices, such as wireless access device1212(e.g., a router). In some examples, the first and second user ports1716and1718may be identical. In other examples, the first user port1716may comprise a standard Ethernet port that permits data transmission speeds of up to one gigabit, while the second user port1718may comprise a 10-gigabit Ethernet port (including, e.g., a 10G physical layer (PHY) to permit the increased speed). For example, if a user previously using GPON service was switched to an XGS-PON service and subscribed to a data plan allowing up to 10G speed, the Ethernet cable connecting the user device (e.g., wireless access device1212or computing device1214) may need to be switched from the first user port1716to the second user port1718; however, the NID1208would not need to be replaced, as discussed herein.

As discussed, the processing circuit1712may include (or be operatively connected) to one or more storage systems, such as secure flash memory1720, non-volatile memory1722, and random-access memory1724. In some examples, the user of secure flash memory1720may enable a one-time authentication process to be performed and before the secure flash memory disables itself (to prevent later customer authentication). In examples, the non-volatile memory1722may store application code, operating system(s), and instructions to permit the processing circuit1712to perform certain routing and other functions, and the RAM1724may provide operating memory for the processing circuit1712to temporarily store data, among other things. The processing circuit may also be operatively connected to a debugging port1726(to allow a technician to hard-wire connect for debugging purposes), a reset button1730(to allow a hardware reset of the processing circuit), and status light emitting diodes1730(to signal the current status of one or more functions of the NID1218to a user).

In examples, the processing circuit1712may comprise multiple operating systems and/or application program modules to allow it to operate receiving, processing, and routing data according to multiple PON protocols, such as GPON and XGS-PON. For example, the first and second PON protocols may differ in how data is encoded (e.g., differences in header syntax, frame rate, frame processing, etc. As such, in some examples, the processing circuit may operate in a particular PON mode based on a signal received from the provider network. For example, the processing circuit1712may receive a signal (e.g., a packet) addressed to the NID1218. As such, rather than routing the packet through one of the user ports1716,1718to the wireless access device1212, the packet may include an indication that the processing circuit should operate in a first mode (e.g., according to a first PON protocol) or a second mode (e.g., according to a second PON protocol). If more than two PON protocols are supported by the NID, then additional modes are possible and contemplated. For example, a third laser driver could be added that is specific to the wavelength range of a third PON protocol, among other possibilities.

The indication of the mode in which to operate may, in examples, cause the processing circuit1712to take several actions. First, the processing circuit may switch between operating system(s) and/or application program(s) that are specific to the PON protocol corresponding to the selected mode. That is, if the difference in PON protocol requires different upstream and/or downstream processing by the processing circuit1712than it was then providing, it will switch to the appropriate operating system and/or application(s) necessary for the new PON protocol.

Further, the processing circuit will instruct the receiving multiplexer1708and transmitting multiplexer1710which path to turn on. For example, if the NID1208was previously operating in the first PON protocol (e.g., GPON), but the processing circuit1712receives an indication from the provider network (e.g., via optical cable1218) that it should switch to the second PON protocol (e.g., XGS-PON), then the processing circuit will signal the receiving multiplexer to switch to transmitting the downstream signal received from the second laser driver1706to the processing circuitry1712. Similarly, the processing circuit will (in this example) cause the transmitting demultiplexer1710to stop transmitting the upstream electrical signal received from the processing circuit1712to the first laser driver1704and start transmitting the upstream electrical signal received from the processing circuit1712to the second laser driver1706.

In this manner, a network provider that switches (e.g., in an end office or edge computing location) the connection of optical cable1218from an OLT operating according to the first PON protocol to an OLT operating according to the second PON protocol need only send a signal for the NID1208to switch modes. No replacement of the NID1208, which means that the customer may enjoy the upgraded service immediately and without being required to perform or schedule any equipment replacement.

FIG.18depicts an example method1800according to aspects of the present application. In examples, one or more of the operations of method1800are performed by a network interface device, such as NID1208. In the depicted example, at operation1805, a first configuration signal is received from a provider network indicating that the NID should operate according to a first PON protocol. For example, an OLT, such as OLT1205, may send a first configuration signal to the NID1208via optical cable1218. The first configuration signal may include a code or instruction that is interpreted by the NID1208(e.g., according to an agreed upon protocol) as an instruction to operate the NID1208in a first mode (e.g., according to a first PON protocol, such as GPON). In some examples, the first configuration signal may comprise a downstream optical signal. In some examples, the absence of an instruction or signal to operate in a second mode (e.g., according to a second PON protocol, such as XGS-PON) may be considered a first configuration signal that the NID should operate according to the first PON protocol. For example, the NID1208may be programmed to operate according to first PON protocol as a default setting.

Flow proceeds to operation1810, wherein a first transmitting demultiplexer may be caused, in response to the first configuration signal, to transmit an upstream electrical signal comprising upstream data to a first laser driver. For example, the processing circuit1712may instruct transmitting demultiplexer1710to send the upstream electrical signal from the processing circuit1712(e.g., which was received via one of the user ports1716,1718) to the first laser driver1704rather than the second laser driver1706.

Flow proceeds to operation1815, where the first laser driver converts the upstream electrical signal to a first optical signal at a first wavelength associated with the first PON protocol. For example, when operating in the first mode, the NID1208is configured to send upstream data according to the first PON protocol. As such, the first laser driver is tuned to encode the data from the upstream electrical signal onto an optical signal at a wavelength within the designated wavelength range for the first PON protocol (e.g., 1290-1330 nm for a GPON implementation).

Also in response to the first configuration signal, at operation1820, a receiving multiplexer is caused to transmit a downstream electrical signal comprising downstream data from the first laser driver to the processing circuit. As discussed, when OSA1702receives a downstream optical signal within a wavelength range associated with the first GPON protocol, the OSA transmits that downstream optical signal to the first laser driver1704, which converts the downstream optical signal to a first downstream electrical signal. The first laser driver transmits the first downstream electrical signal to the receiving multiplexer1708. When operating in the first mode, the processing circuit1712may signal the receiving multiplexer to forward the downstream electrical signal being received from the first laser driver1704rather than the second laser driver1706.

At operation1825, the processing circuit may extract downstream data from the first downstream electrical signal according to the first PON protocol. In examples, the NID1208may receive downstream data for all NIDs that are connected to the upstream OLT. In examples, the first PON protocol may define virtual ports that are assigned (according to the first PON protocol) to the NID1218. The processing circuit may extract downstream data associated with the virtual ports assigned to it.

At operation1830, the first optical signal is forwarded to the provider network. For example, the first optical signal from the first laser driver1704is transmitted by the OSA1702via the optical cable1218to the provider network (e.g., through the OLT). and forward such downstream data to one or more of the user port(s)1716,1718. Further, at operation1835, the downstream data extracted by the processing circuit may be transmitted through at least one user port. For example, the processing circuit1712may transmit the downstream data via one or more of the user ports1716,1718to a user computing device1214or wireless access device1212.

FIG.19depicts another example method1900according to aspects of the present application. In examples, some or all of the operations of method1900may be performed by a network interface device, such as NID1208. Further, the operations of method1900may occur following the operations of method1800.

At operation1905, a second configuration signal is received from the provider network indicating that the NID should operate according to a second PON protocol. For example, a NID1208that was previously operating according to a first PON protocol (e.g., GPON) may receive a signal from the upstream OLT1205indicating that the NID1208should now operate according to the XGS-PON protocol. This may occur, in examples, when an XGS-PON protocol service becomes available at the OLT1205.

Flow proceeds to operation1910, where the transmitting demultiplexer is caused, in response to the second configuration signal, to transmit the upstream electrical signal to the second laser driver1706rather than the first laser driver1704. As discussed, the second laser driver may be tuned to operate at a wavelength associated with the second PON protocol, such as XGS-PON. As such, the processing circuit1712, in response to receiving the second configuration signal, may signal the transmitting demultiplexer to begin sending the upstream electrical signal to the second laser driver1706.

Flow proceeds to operation1915, where the second laser driver converts the upstream electrical signal to a second optical signal at a second wavelength associated with the second PON protocol. For example, as discussed, the upstream wavelength associated with the second PON protocol may be different from the upstream wavelength associated with the first PON protocol, and the second laser driver may be tuned to convert an electrical signal to a wavelength appropriate for the second PON protocol.

Flow proceeds to operation1920, where, also in response to the second configuration signal, the receiving multiplexer is caused to transmit a second downstream signal comprising downstream data from the second laser driver to the processing circuit. For example, as discussed, when operating in the second mode (using the second PON protocol), the downstream optical signal will be directed from the OSA1702to the second laser driver1706, which will convert the downstream optical signal to a second downstream electrical signal, which is then transmitted to the receiving multiplexer1708. The receiving multiplexer may receive a signal from the processing circuit to start transmitting the second downstream electrical signal from the second laser driver to the processing circuit, rather than the first downstream electrical signal from the first laser driver.

Flow proceeds to operation1925, where the processing circuit extracts the downstream data from the second downstream electrical signal according to the second PON protocol. For example, the second PON protocol may define different virtual ports that are assigned to the NID1208than the first PON protocol. The processing circuit1712may extract the downstream data associated with the virtual ports assigned according to the second PON protocol, among other processing of the downstream data.

Flow proceeds to operation1930, where the second optical signal is transmitted to the provider network. For example, the second optical signal of upstream data produced by the second laser driver may be transmitted via the OSA1702to the provider network via optical cable1218.

Further, at operation1935, the downstream data may be transmitted via at least one user port to at least one user device. For example, the processing circuit1712may transmit the downstream data to user computing device1214, wireless access device1212, or another device via one or more user ports1716,1718.

FIG.20depicts an example of a suitable operating environment2000that may be used to implement any of the network interface device108,1208, wireless access device112,1212, edge site(s)1217, or other computing devices within the systems discussed herein. In its most basic configuration, operating environment2000typically includes at least one processing circuit2002and memory2004. The processing circuit may be a processor, which is hardware. Depending on the exact configuration and type of computing device, memory2004(storing instructions to perform the methods disclosed herein) may be volatile (such as RAM), non-volatile (such as ROM, flash memory, etc.), or some combination of the two. This most basic configuration is illustrated in FIG.20by dashed line2006. The memory2004stores instructions that, when executed by the processing circuit(s)2002, perform the processes and operations described herein. Further, environment2000may also include storage devices (removable2008, or non-removable2010) including, but not limited to, solid-state, magnetic disks, optical disks, or tape. Similarly, environment2000may also have input device(s)2014such as keyboard, mouse, pen, voice input, etc., or output device(s)2016such as a display, speakers, printer, etc. Additional communication connections2012may also be included that allow for further communication with LAN, WAN, point-to-point, etc. Operating environment2000may also include geolocation devices2020, such as a global positioning system (GPS) device.

Examples of the disclosure may also be practiced in an electrical circuit comprising discrete electronic elements, packaged or integrated electronic chips containing logic gates, a circuit utilizing a microprocessor, or on a single chip containing electronic elements or microprocessors. For example, examples of the disclosure may be practiced via a system-on-a-chip (SOC) where each or many of the components illustrated inFIG.20may be integrated onto a single integrated circuit. Such a SOC device may include one or more processing units, graphics units, communications units, system virtualization units and various application functionality all of which are integrated (or “burned”) onto the chip substrate as a single integrated circuit.

When operating via a SOC, the functionality, described herein, may be operated via application-specific logic integrated with other components of the operating environment2000on the single integrated circuit (chip). The disclosure may also be practiced using other technologies capable of performing logical operations such as, for example, AND, OR, and NOT, including but not limited to mechanical, optical, fluidic, and quantum technologies.

As used herein, the word “or” is inclusive, so that, for example, “A or B” means any one of (i) A, (ii) B, and (iii) A and B. The term “processing circuit” is used herein to mean any combination of hardware, firmware, and software, employed to process data or digital signals. Processing circuit hardware may include, for example, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), general purpose or special purpose central processing units (CPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), graphics processing units (GPUs), and programmable logic devices such as field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). In a processing circuit, as used herein, each function is performed either by hardware configured, i.e., hard-wired, to perform that function, or by more general-purpose hardware, such as a CPU, configured to execute instructions stored in a non-transitory storage medium. A processing circuit may be fabricated on a single printed circuit board (PCB) or distributed over several interconnected PCBs. A processing circuit may contain other processing circuits; for example, a processing circuit may include two processing circuits, an FPGA and a CPU, interconnected on a PCB.

The description and illustration of one or more aspects provided in this disclosure are not intended to limit or restrict the scope of the disclosure as claimed in any way. The aspects, examples, and details provided in this disclosure are considered sufficient to convey possession and enable others to make and use the best mode of claimed disclosure. The claimed disclosure should not be construed as being limited to any aspect, example, or detail provided in this disclosure. Regardless of whether shown and described in combination or separately, the various features (both structural and methodological) are intended to be selectively rearranged, included or omitted to produce an embodiment with a particular set of features. Having been provided with the description and illustration of the present application, one skilled in the art may envision variations, modifications, and alternate aspects falling within the spirit of the broader aspects of the general inventive concept embodied in this application that do not depart from the broader scope of the claimed disclosure.