Zhone, Fujitsu to build FTTH network for Kit Carson Electric

Fiber-to-the-x (FTTx) systems supplier Zhone Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: ZHNE) has partnered with Fujitsu Network Communications, Inc., in the development of a fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) network for Kit Carson Electric Cooperative (KCEC), which will enable gigabit broadband services for rural counties in Northern New Mexico.

Fujitsu worked with KCEC to select Zhone for its ability to meet the standards required in the FCC's National Broadband Plan: delivering affordable high-speed broadband service in excess of 100 Mbps to residents and 1-Gbps broadband service to anchor institutions like schools, hospitals, and government offices.

"As the network systems integrator, we're thrilled to have Zhone provide the last mile access solution that will give Kit Carson Electric Cooperative's members and broadband providers a reliable, resilient and high-speed fiber network with the required bandwidth to satisfy their needs," said Greg Manganello, senior vice president and head of services, Fujitsu Network Communications. "Zhone's FTTH products were selected because they met this project's selection criteria for future-proofing, security, interoperability and management."

Spanning 2,400 miles along KCEC's existing electric distribution right-of-way, the fiber-optic network will connect 29 communities comprised of roughly 24,000 households and businesses, 183 critical community institutions, and two Native American pueblos within a 2,951 square mile underserved area in the Taos, Colfax, and Rio Arriba counties in Northern New Mexico. The entire area will be serviced with a new network that will be built out in four phases, taking about two years to complete.

In addition to video, voice, and data services for consumers and anchor institutions, the fiber-optic network will also enable "smart grid" technologies for the utility operator, including substation automation (SA) and advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) technology.

Based on GPON technology, the network will be powered by Zhone's MXK access platform and zNID optical network terminals (ONTs). The company will also construct a secure network facility within its existing corporate headquarters. The first phase will include four sites with four MXKs and 1,500 zNID-GPON-4220 set to reach 5,900 homes, with a goal of reaching 19,000 homes when the project is complete.

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