(Telecompaper) Verizon has selected vendors to start testing NG-PON2 (next-generation passive optical network) equipment in its Innovation Lab in Massachusetts. Starting this month, Verizon will begin initial testing with equipment from Ericsson, in partnership with Calix, and from Adtran. Testing will focus on several features of NG-PON2, including tuning performance, ability to carry residential and business services on the same platform, and interoperability and conformance testing to meet Verizon ONT specifications. Verizon is assessing the technology to provide increased speeds and functionality to customers on its Fios network.