Texas Co-Op Poka Lambro to upgrade fiber network with Ribbon-ECI optical transport systems

April 7, 2020
Ribbon-ECI will supply elements of the Apollo packet-optical transport portfolio that will be deployed on Poka Lambro’s existing XDM fiber network.

Ribbon Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: RBBN) and its new acquisition, ECI Telecom Group Ltd. (together, Ribbon-ECI; see Ribbon-ECI unveils 400 Gigabit Ethernet blades after acquisition closes) say they will supply optical transport systems to Poka Lambro Telephone Co-operative in West Texas for a fiber-optic network upgrade.

Ribbon-ECI will supply elements of the Apollo packet-optical transport portfolio that will be deployed on Poka Lambro’s existing XDM fiber network. The systems include the Apollo 9603 and 9608 next-generation transponders, which will bring 100-Gbps capabilities to the network. Both the new and previously fielded systems leverage Ribbon-ECI’s LightSOFT Network Management System.

Founded more than 70 years ago, Poka Lambro provides local telephone services, long-distance connectivity, and high-speed internet services to customers across the Texas Panhandle. Its footprint covers 4200 square miles. “Western Texas is home to some of the strongest agri-business in the U.S., and its communities require consistent, reliable connectivity,” explained Mike Jarret, vice president of outside operations at Poka Lambro. “With Ribbon-ECI’s optical technologies and remote network management tools, we can ensure our customers experience unwavering connectivity while reducing our truck rolls across the region. Without a doubt, we feel equipped to meet the demands of our customers and deliver exceptional service both today and well into the future.”

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About the Author

Stephen Hardy | Editorial Director and Associate Publisher, Lightwave

Stephen Hardy is editorial director and associate publisher of Lightwave and Broadband Technology Report, part of the Lighting & Technology Group at Endeavor Business Media. Stephen is responsible for establishing and executing editorial strategy across the both brands’ websites, email newsletters, events, and other information products. He has covered the fiber-optics space for more than 20 years, and communications and technology for more than 35 years. During his tenure, Lightwave has received awards from Folio: and the American Society of Business Press Editors (ASBPE) for editorial excellence. Prior to joining Lightwave in 1997, Stephen worked for Telecommunications magazine and the Journal of Electronic Defense.

Stephen has moderated panels at numerous events, including the Optica Executive Forum, ECOC, and SCTE Cable-Tec Expo. He also is program director for the Lightwave Innovation Reviews and the Diamond Technology Reviews.

He has written numerous articles in all aspects of optical communications and fiber-optic networks, including fiber to the home (FTTH), PON, optical components, DWDM, fiber cables, packet optical transport, optical transceivers, lasers, fiber optic testing, and more.

You can connect with Stephen on LinkedIn as well as Twitter.

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