Vecima Networks Inc. (TSX: VCM) and Charter Communications, Inc. say they have collaborated on a lab demonstration of DOCSIS 4.0 technology that resulted in greater than 8.5 Gbps downstream and 6 Gbps upstream. The multi-gigabit transmission rates leveraged a DOCSIS 4.0 system-on-a-chip (SoC) for Remote MACPHY Device (RMD) and cable modem hardware that conforms to CableLabs DOCSIS 4.0 frequency-division duplex (FDD) specifications, they said.
The two companies assert the demonstration, which used a single reference cable modem, shows the ability to perform incremental upgrades of HFC networks to DOCSIS 4.0 FDD through fielded amplifier cascades. The technology used in the trial builds on the existing FDD approach, extending downstream and upstream to higher frequencies, Vecima and Charter added.
“This provides proof that our network is capable of offering multi-gig speeds bi-directionally,” said Joe Godas, senior vice president, network engineering and technology at Charter. “Having this technology offers an option for future improvements and continuing to evolve our leading service for years to come.”
“Vecima is excited to help lead the industry in bringing DOCSIS 4.0 to the market,” added Sumit Kumar, president and CEO at Vecima. “The HFC plant remains a huge asset for cable operators, and our recent testing validates the performance and viability of DOCSIS 4.0 and the inherent multi-gig symmetrical capacity of the cable plant.”
“I am seeing broad interest among MSOs in both DOCSIS 4.0 and 1.8 GHz. Both are game-changing innovations for cable operators. To maintain HFC’s competitive advantage in the market, D4.0 will be a critical network advancement,” commented Jeff Heynen, vice president, broadband access and home networking at Dell’Oro Group, via a press release that described the demonstration.
