Polar Communications deploys Calix indoor ONTs

Calix, Inc. (NYSE: CALX) says that Polar Communications, an incumbent local exchange carrier (ILEC) that serves more than 12,000 subscribers in North Dakota and Minnesota, has deployed Calix 716GE-I indoor optical network terminals (ONTs) and B6 Ethernet Service Access Nodes (ESANs). The deployment covers more than 1000 homes in Cavalier, ND, with Active Ethernet technology deployed across the B6 ESAN and terminated inside the subscriber’s home on the 716GE-I. The systems are part of the Calix Unified Access portfolio.

Polar also has deployed GENBAND C15 Compact Softswitches to support the delivery of Media Gateway Control Protocol (MGCP) voice over internet protocol (VoIP) services. The ability to support MGCP services is a new feature of the Unified Access line, which complements the line’s support of SIP and H.248 for VoIP.

The ILEC also will use the Calix CMS Release 11.2 to provide a common management and provisioning system.

“Polar is extremely excited to benefit from the now expanded and truly integrated Unified Access portfolio,” said David Dunning, general manager and CEO of Polar. “The combination of being able to leverage our existing C15 Softswitch with the B6 ESAN, which we already have deployed across our network, and benefit from the unique features of the 716GE-I indoor ONT, provides an extremely powerful option for us. The real winners are our member subscribers, who receive a truly compelling broadband services experience across one of the nation’s most advanced broadband infrastructures.”

For more information on FTTx equipment and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyers Guide.