Broadband operators facing the rising costs of managing separate networks for entertainment, information, and communication services will be able to lower operating costs by implementing Scientific-Atlanta's new Prisma IP multi-service optical transport platform. This new packet-based optical transport system, which is currently in customer field trials, was introduced at the SCTE Cable-Tec Expo in Orlando, FL.
Prisma IP's unique design allows a variety of different services to share the same metropolitan area network (MAN). The platform addresses the technical and logistical challenges of deploying converged telephony, Internet-access and entertainment-quality interactive services, such as VOD, personal TV and other high-bandwidth ITV services. By delivering converged services over a single network, the Prisma IP platform is designed to meet consumer demand for increased bandwidth while enabling network operators to reduce costs, extend system reach and improve network reliability.
The Prisma IP system will be a "carrier class" optical transmission platform, capable of enabling network operators to deliver quality of service and reliability for interactive applications. Its multiple benefits will include:
* Single network for video, voice and data; simplifies operation, saves time and money
* Enables operators to offer new, differentiated data, video and voice services to expand revenue opportunities
* Supports toll-quality voice and circuit emulated services for significant savings to operators for transport of voice; eliminates the need for parallel data and voice networks
* Optimized for packet-based services such as IP and Ethernet data services, interactive entertainment-quality video services, and entertainment-quality broadcast analog and digital services
The technology behind Prisma IP is Resilient Packet Transport (RPT) RPT is the key enabler to providing multi-service aggregation and is optimized for high margin IP services, such as VPNs (Virtual Private Networks), transparent LAN, VoIP (Voice over IP), e-Commerce, streaming video, and more. RPT technology provides more efficient use of bandwidth than a voice-optimized network using SONET-based equipment. RPT is "packet optimized" to accommodate emerging packet traffic while supporting legacy TDM (Time Division Multiplex) interfaces and video interfaces over a one platform. With RPT-based platforms, you can deliver multiple services on the network at the same time, combining data, voice and narrowcast signals with the broadcast spectrum.
Applications that S-A envisions will be supported by the Prisma IP platform include:
* Broadcast Digital Video (ASI/IF modules)
* Video on Demand (ASI)
* Packet Data (10/100 GBE)
* Toll Quality Circuit Voice Service (T1/DS3)
Scientific-Atlanta also introduced its new GainMaker fiber-deep node. As cable operators launch more interactive services and the number of cable modems in use continues to grow, pushing "fiber deeper" toward cable subscribers to maximize the availability of bandwidth becomes a critical operational need. Scientific-Atlanta today announced a solution to this potential bandwidth bottleneck with the introduction of its GainMaker Fiber Deep Node.
This addition to the GainMaker broadband access platform, one of the most popular transmission systems in use by cable operators, offers MSOs a high-performance solution. It delivers cost savings through greater reach with less actives, while ensuring maximum coverage for network designs. Since the fiber deeper node uses the proven GainMaker RF module and accessories, the new node also lowers the cost of spares.
The new GainMaker Fiber Deep Node may be deployed in two ways, adding to the flexibility it offers cable operators for creating more bandwidth capacity
per user:
* Systems that already use GainMaker amplifiers (cable equipment that ensures that signal quality to subscribers is maintained regardless of the distance from the headend) can convert them to GainMaker Fiber Deep Nodes by replacing the amplifier lid with a node lid, and making a minor change to the module. Since many cable technicians are already familiar with the GainMaker amplifiers, working with the new nodes requires very little training. This simple upgrade quickly pushes fiber deeper into the cable system, expanding bandwidth availability to support interactive services. Converting the amplifier to a node instead of replacing the amplifier may enable cable operators to enjoy savings of over 30 percent compared to the cost of installing a new piece of equipment.
* In a rebuild, upgrade or new build environment, the GainMaker Fiber Deep Node is well suited to bring proven GainMaker reliability and performance to a cable system. In addition, the widespread deployment of GainMaker transmission systems enables operators to select the new node with confidence, talking advantage of the products' reputation for user friendliness.
In addition to offering cost-saving opportunities, the technical features of the new node include two or three output capability, up to 38 dB of gain, familiar optical components already used in Prisma model 6940 nodes and the same accessories as GainMaker amplifiers.
About Scientific-Atlanta:
Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. (NYSE: SFA) is a supplier of digital content distribution systems, transmission networks for broadband access to the home, digital interactive set-tops and subscriber systems designed for video, high speed Internet and voice over IP (VoIP) networks, and worldwide customer service and support. For more information, visit www.scientificatlanta.com.