KDDI uses Nokia G.fast platform to roll out au Hikari MDU Type G services
Nokia says it has supplied G.fast technology to KDDI as a means to enhance broadband connections to customers in multiple dwelling units (MDUs) in Japan. KDDI will use G.fast to offer its 'au Hikari MDU Type G' services, which will deliver combined uplink and downlink speeds of 830 Mbps using in-building copper cabling.
Nokia says it is the only company who can supply G.fast systems that are compatible with Japan’s version of VDSL. This compatibility enables KDDI to streamline its transition from VDSL/VDSL2 to G.fast, particularly in hybrid networks. "G.fast continues to be a preferred choice for operators seeking to deliver gigabit broadband services to MDUs as it eliminates many of the issues found with FTTH deployments such as building types and access. However, in Japan, deploying G.fast can be just as challenging as fiber due to the unique VDSL ecosystem and standards in place,” explained Teresa Mastrangelo, principal analyst at Broadband Trends, via a Nokia press release. “As one of the few vendors capable of supporting both the global and local Japanese VDSL standard, Nokia has been able to help KDDI capitalize on the benefits of G.fast and seamlessly scale and migrate their network with minimal disruption. This win is another great example for how G.fast technology is being used to quickly address customers need for greater broadband speeds."
"KDDI already provides 10-Gbps service for our 'au Hikari' FTTH customers, but the speed we can provide has been limited to 100 Mbps service for MDUs where fiber is difficult to deploy,” added Shigenari Saito, administrative officer, general manager, Network Technology Development Division, Technology Sector, at KDDI. “Nokia's G.fast solution enables us to connect existing 100-Mbps users and new G.fast users under the same DPU (distribution point unit). This gives us the flexibility and economical path to meet the customer's demands for higher speed. Our decision to deploy Nokia G.fast is based on our long-term relationship; Nokia continues to be our long-term partner for delivering technology innovations."
Nokia asserts that there are approximately 5-6 million VDSL2 users in Japan that will need to migrate to G.fast.
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