Aurora Networks debuts a narrowcast demultiplexer, broadcast combiner with remote optical power level management
13 May 2003 Santa Clara, CA Lightwave--Aurora Networks, a manufacturer of advanced optical transport and distribution systems for broadband networks, is announcing the availability of the Optiplex II narrowcast demultiplexer, broadcast combiner. The OP3524-series module features remote optical power level management, and is the only product of its type that can be managed remotely, according to the company.
Optiplex II demultiplexes four individual optical carriers containing narrowcast signals and combines them with a common broadcast optical signal. As new video and data carriers are added to the system, or as the configuration of the network is changed, the power levels of the optical carriers can change. The optical power level management feature of the module allows power levels to be realigned remotely via SNMP interface to an element management system. Power levels can also be adjusted via the power supply display panel or through a local craft port interface. Levels can be adjusted on any individual wavelength in 0.1-dBm steps. Additionally, by combining these functions in one module, the cost and maintenance of eight optical patch cords are eliminated.
"With the Optiplex II from Aurora, broadband networks can be easily expanded by adding optical wavelengths without the need to break physical connections or install optical attenuators to realign the optical carrier power levels," said Ron Wolfe, senior product manager for CATV products for Aurora Networks. "By adding optical narrowcast carriers, Optiplex II allows multiple system operators to offer new, revenue-generating services, such as digital video, video-on-demand, high-speed data, and telephony, more easily and cost-effectively than ever before."
The Optiplex II is a hot-swappable module that occupies one half-depth slot in the Aurora CH3000 Series high-density chassis. It typically resides in a hub site, although could also be located within the headend. The product is available now. Aurora is showing the module in booth 740 at SCTE's Cable-Tec Expo 2003, held this week, May 12-14, in Philadelphia.