ROADM-based switched ring architecture optimizes DWDM networks for video, IP services

June 8, 2005 Chicago, IL -- OpVista, a provider of DWDM networks, has introduced its ROADM-based Switched Ring Architecture (SRA). The company says its SRA enables service providers, including cable MSOs, telcos, and CLECs, to build regional optical transport networks with the reconfigurability, scalability, and traffic pattern flexibility required for advanced video and IP services.

According to the company, the SRA consists of two elements: ROADMs based on a broadcast and select architecture providing "point and click" reconfigurability, and a switched ring network accommodating "any-to-any" traffic patterns with full protection switching.

The company says the SRA builds on its successful deployments of ROADM-based DWDM transport networks at major cable MSOs, supporting large-scale video on demand (VoD) systems as well as IP services for business and residential customers. The company says the platform suits providers deploying services which demand high bandwidth and easy reconfiguration for variable traffic patterns. The company says the SRA is also ideal for telcos deploying FTTP and FTTN networks for triple-play IPTV, VoIP, and high-speed Internet services to subscribers.

"Not only can SRA provide a new, highly flexible transport network for telcos, but since its optical elements are based on the standard ITU grid, an OpVista SRA network can be deployed behind a carrier's existing SONET or older conventional DWDM network," explians Winston Way, CTO of OpVista, "This provides an important measure of reconfigurability and flexibility to their existing equipment."

"OpVista is one of the few startups that have managed to land Tier 1 service operator business that it can publicly reference on its own, without the benefit of a Tier 1 vendor partner, and that says a lot," adds Dave Dunphy, principal analyst of optical infrastructure at Current Analysis. "The VoD capabilities that helped them drive early traction in MSOs and gain valuable experience there will be of interest in the traditional telecom service markets as well."

The SRA is on display at the company's booth #38081 at Supercomm 2005.