Cisco unveils CMTS modules with CCAP in mind

Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) has unveiled a new high-density line card and a high-performance processing engine for its Cisco uBR10012 Universal Broadband Router (uBR10K) and Cisco Cable Modem Termination System (CMTS). The new products will help cable MSOs evolve toward Converged Cable Access Platform (CCAP) architectures, Cisco asserts.

CCAP is a CableLabs-defined set of specifications that aims to enable cable operators to migrate their networks to a more IP-friendly state. CCAP combines new CMTS and edge QAM technologies in a way that cable MSOs expect will reduce rack space and power requirements and accelerate the transition to an all-IP network (see "Paving the path to IP with CCAP").

Cisco says its new Performance Routing Engine (PRE5) and 3 Gigabit Shared Port Adapter (3GSPA) effectively double the number of downstream channels the uBR10K can support -- from 576 to 1,152 -- without additional rack space. That translates to a total chassis capacity of more than 40 Gbps, Cisco says. The new modules will enable cable MSOs use their current uBR10K platforms to adopt an incremental deployment approach to using more ports via a pay-as-you-grow business model.

Trials of the PRE5 and 3GSPA should begin in the first quarter of next year, Cisco says.

"Multiservice convergence for DOCSIS and video networks requires significant operational preparation and readiness,” comments Mark Palazzo, VP and general manager, Cable Access business unit at Cisco. “Cisco has been working closely with its cable service provider customers to offer a modular CCAP approach to getting them there with exactly what they need right here, right now, and to transition over time. We are doubling downstream capacity with the existing chassis by upgrading it with these two new modules. We are committed to helping our customers maximize their investment by not adding rack space or equipment -- and with no training required."

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