Abstract: A communication system includes an interface that allows a media access controller (MAC) and an optical line termination transceiver module (TM), which have incompatible interfaces, to be connected together. The interface ensures that a clock signal and a start of frame signal have the phase relationship required by the TM, and the timing of the start of frame signal remains consistent.

Abstract: A communication system includes an interface that allows a media access controller (MAC) and an optical line termination transceiver module (TM), which have incompatible interfaces, to be connected together. The interface detects a phase relationship required by the TM, and feeds the information back to a processor and memory which places a value into the MAC to adjust the phase relationship.

Abstract: A point-to-multipoint communications network includes an optical line terminal (OLT) and a number of optical network terminals (ONTS) which each detect and remove rogue ONTs from the network. The OLT monitors transmission errors to detect the presence of a rogue ONT, and can determine the identity of the rogue. Each ONT monitors its own upstream data packets to detect the presence of a rogue, and turns itself off when a rogue is detected.

Abstract: An optical network terminal includes a sleep logic circuit that assumes responsibility for monitoring off-hook transitions after the AC main power supply has failed for a predetermined period of time. The sleep logic circuit is very low power and, as a result, allows the optical network terminal to remain active and provide lifeline support for a much greater period of time.