The Maryland Broadband Cooperative (MdBC), a non-profit middle-mile network provider, has launched an upgrade of its 2500-fiber-mile statewide optical network using technology from Ciena (NYSE: CIEN). The network enhancement will bring 400G transport capabilities to MdBC’s more than 80 members, which include telecom companies, internet service providers (ISPs), utilities, health care facilities, universities, and state and local governments.
The upgrade will leverage Ciena’s 6500 T-Series Packet-Optical Platform and WaveLogic Ai coherent technology. MdBC will use Ciena’s Manage, Control and Plan (MCP) domain controller for coordinated multi-layer management for the new fiber network as well as an existing cell site network built on Ciena’s 5171 routing and switching platform. The network also will benefit from integrated PinPoint OTDR (optical time-domain reflectometer) capabilities from Ciena that will help discover and locate fiber cuts. Finally, Ciena Services will provide implementation services as well as maintenance and managed services.
“MdBC was founded to help address the lack of broadband access in unserved and underserved areas throughout Maryland. It’s the core of who we are,” said Drew Van Dopp, president and CEO of MdBC. “Ciena’s leading optical and network management solutions afford us greater performance and reliability to improve broadband access – and thereby digital inclusion – across every county in the state. This will help fuel economic development, jobs, education, and telehealth, improving quality of life in our rural and chronically underserved communities.”
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