Broadband

SCTE launches smart amplifier communications standards effort

Dec. 20, 2021

SCTE Standards has announced the inauguration of the SCTE Standards Smart Amplifier project, an effort to create standards for smart amplifier communications. Doug Jones, principal architect at CableLabs, will chair the group charged with the task.

The standards will cover communications with next-generation amplifiers for all DOCSIS networks, such as standalone amplifiers connected only by coaxial cable and launch amplifiers inside node housings, including those based on upcoming DOCSIS 4.0 FDD and FDX technologies. Applications covered by the standard also will include all required monitoring and control communications with an amplifier, whether accessed over the HFC control plane or locally via direct wired or wireless connection.

Service providers backing the effort include Charter Communications, Inc., Comcast Cable, Cox Communications, Inc., and Shaw Communications. A significant number of technology suppliers will be involved as well, including:

Amphenol Broadband Solutions
Antronix, Inc.
Applied Optoelectronics, Inc.
ATX
Belden Inc.
Broadcom Limited
CableLabs
CommScope, Inc.
Electroline Equipment Inc.
Qorvo
Technetix
Teleste Intercept
Vecima Networks.

About the Author

Stephen Hardy | Editorial Director & Associate Publisher

Stephen Hardy is editorial director and associate publisher of Lightwave and Broadband Technology Report, part of the Lighting & Technology Group at Endeavor Business Media. Stephen is responsible for establishing and executing editorial strategy across the both brands’ websites, email newsletters, events, and other information products. He has covered the fiber-optics space for more than 20 years, and communications and technology for more than 35 years. During his tenure, Lightwave has received awards from Folio: and the American Society of Business Press Editors (ASBPE) for editorial excellence. Prior to joining Lightwave in 1997, Stephen worked for Telecommunications magazine and the Journal of Electronic Defense.

Stephen has moderated panels at numerous events, including the Optica Executive Forum, ECOC, and SCTE Cable-Tec Expo. He also is program director for the Lightwave Innovation Reviews and the Diamond Technology Reviews.

He has written numerous articles in all aspects of optical communications and fiber-optic networks, including fiber to the home (FTTH), PON, optical components, DWDM, fiber cables, packet optical transport, optical transceivers, lasers, fiber optic testing, DOCSIS technology, and more.