Multi-user encoding for forward error correction in passive optical networks

We propose a method and hardware architecture for error-correction encoding of downstream traffic in a passive optical network. The encoder can handle multiple users using multiple error-correction codes. Our solution further allows transmission of a codeword across multiple timeslots allotted to a user. his ability to spread out the user payload allows decimation of the data processing rate at the user end, leading to lower energy consumption. Hardware emulation based on the developed design shows that our multi-user encoder consumes significantly less power than a system using conventional encoders in parallel.