Free Space Optical Technology as an alternative Last-Mile Solution: A Techno-Economic Analysis

In this paper, a techno-economic evaluation of the business prospects of Free Space Optical (KSO) technology as an alternative last mile solution is carried out and compared to Fiber-to-the-Home/Office (FTTH) and Fiber-to-the-Cabinet (FFTC). The analysis is based on the results from the TONIC tool which takes into account network topology, area characteristics, service demand and price evolution forecasting and calculates key economic figures-of-merits. The results reveal that FSO technology could provide a viable alternative in cases where the existing duct availability is limited and scenarios with either FTTH or FFTC have negative or less favourable business prospects.