ADTRAN, Deutsche Telekom lab test next-generation G.fast

ADTRAN, Inc. (NASDAQ: ADTN) says it has collaborated with Deutsche Telekom (DT) to begin lab trials of next-generation G.fast technology. The advancements, based on recently ratified ITU-T recommendations, include the use of 212 MHz spectrum and coordinated dynamic time allocation (cDTA). The upgrades help enable support of symmetrical gigabit broadband as well as improves G.fast's performance on copper cabling, including coax.

Use of the new 212-MHz specification doubles the usable spectrum for G.fast transmissions, ADTRAN points out. The systems house has supplied what the company asserts is the first commercially available distribution point unit (DPU) to support 212-MHz operation. The unit also supports cDTA, which ADTRAN says can improve G.fast performance in the upstream by 4X to 5X. DT is looking at G.fast to support fiber to the building (FTTB) applications, where the service provider would run fiber to multiple-dwelling units (MDUs) or multiple-tenant business sites, then use existing in-building wiring for the connections to individual customers.

"Operators in highly competitive, dense urban or urban environments are challenged to extend gigabit services due to the time and cost that can be associated with pure play FTTH techniques," said Jay Wilson, senior vice president at ADTRAN. "With G.fast innovation, operators, such as DT, can significantly accelerate Gigabit Society goals by launching gigabit services over their existing infrastructure dramatically reducing subscriber disruption."

ADTRAN has offered dynamic time allocation capabilties since last fall, including a pre-ratification version likely based on technology from Sckipio (see "ADTRAN offers G.fast with Dynamic Time Allocation"). As of this past January, the company said it had participated in more than 60 G.fast trials (see "ADTRAN: We have more than 60 G.fast trial customers").

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