Triquint intros broadband return path amplifier for DOCSIS 3.0 channel bonding

TriQuint Semiconductor, Inc. (NASDAQ: TQNT) has introduced three new devices for CATV infrastructure and fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) applications, including what it claims is the industry’s first amplifier supporting return path DOCSIS 3.0 channel bonding with 5 to 300 MHz bandwidth. This capability can ensure long-term competitiveness and help to “future proof” incumbent cable-TV systems, the company says.

Channel bonding is a method for substantially increasing two-way data throughput in cable TV networks (see “To digital and beyond!”). This technology can help cable operators to meet customers’ current and future needs through economically scaled system upgrades. Triquint says that existing silicon and previous GaAs-based semiconductors used to enable channel bonding do not match the bandwidth and output capability of its new devices.

TriQuint’s TAT3814 simplifies return path system designs by integrating 36 dB of gain and 20 dB of automatic gain control (AGC) attenuation in a single 6x6-mm surface-mount package. It is ideally suited for cable modem, DOCSIS set-top gateway (DSG), set-top box (STB), as well as optical node and new combined line extender/optical node applications. With it, cable operators can offer high-speed data capabilities that are competitive with FTTP systems.

“TriQuint’s new return path amplifier demonstrates how we leverage our state-of-the-art technology. We base our solutions on customer needs. Not only does the TAT3814 help cable operators expand service offerings, it also sets the stage for future network upgrades. This is truly a device that helps them reach further and faster while gaining a competitive marketplace advantage,” said James L. Klein, TriQuint vice president and general manager for infrastructure and defense products.

TriQuint says the new TAT3814 is production released; it is sampling now along with other CATV/FTTP products that were introduced at the SCTE Cable-Tec Expo in Orlando, FL, October 17—19.

The other new products include two new high-performance 12-V infrastructure power doublers: the TAT2801 and TAT8801A1H. Both are targeted at line extender output amplifier and distribution node amplifier designs. Triquint says the TAT2801 provides exceptionally high output and linearity for DOCSIS 3.0 Edge QAM and cable modem termination system (CMTS) applications. It has the highest linearity of the two new doublers. The TAT8801A1H is designed to meet most line extender output level requirements through its optimized performance and low power consumption.

TriQuint also announced that its FTTP video receiver entered full production last quarter. The TAT6281 integrated video receiver – introduced at the 2012 ANGA Cable Show – uses the same topology as TriQuint’s TAT6254 family, which includes PIN diode attenuation for consistent operation. It supports low-noise analog interface to optical triplexers in single family unit (SFU) FTTP applications.

For more information on FTTx/access systems and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide.