Part 2: You Say You Want an Evolution?

DOCSIS® 4.0 has a wealth of advantages, from its dramatically increased spectrums to symmetrical, multi-gigabit speeds supporting 10G downstream and 6G upstream throughputs. But perhaps its primary advantage is flexibility; there are many roads that lead from current DOCSIS 3.1 networks to a DOCSIS 4.0 future. Yet, while navigating these byways, many cable operators may ask which direction will best lead them to their DOCSIS 4.0 destination at their own pace and on their own terms.

CommScope has taken a multi-faceted, “agnostic” approach to supporting DOCSIS 4.0. With our full portfolio of Extended Spectrum DOCSIS (ESD) and Full Duplex DOCSIS (FDX) products and solutions, we’re in a unique position to help guide cable operators down whichever DOCSIS 4.0 path they choose. As an industry leader in DOCSIS 4.0 solutions, CommScope can support a cable operator’s network transition based on the customer’s desired time frame and budget.

With that in mind, we’ve designed our ESD line of 1.8 GHz nodes to operate seamlessly in current 1.2 GHz mid- or high-split networks, so that cable operators can prepare for a full transition to DOCSIS 4.0 network operation in the future without major disruptions to their current services. By installing a 1.8 GHz node into their networks today, cable operators can prepare for the future by installing a product that provides a starting point for a full DOCSIS 4.0 network upgrade, without the need for future forklift. Then, at a future date, they can begin full DOCSIS 4.0 implementation as dictated by network traffic and consumer demands.

A key advantage to replacing a current 1.2 GHz node with an ESD model is the simplicity and flexibility of the upgrade process. CommScope’s 1.8 GHz nodes support two common 1.2 GHz operating scenarios with minimal expenditures of time, capital and labor, while continuing to support current 1.2 GHz RF operating levels. ESD nodes can be shipped with a factory installed RxD module that fully supports 85/102 MHz or 204/258 MHz splits in DAA networks.

Alternatively, cable operators can choose to simply upgrade the RF modules in their existing nodes to modules with 1.8 GHz capability, while utilizing current 1.2 GHz receivers and transmitters for operation in existing HFC networks. In either scenario, the DAA module or existing analog/digital optical modules will support current system levels to maintain existing network operation, while setting the stage for the installation of next-generation DOCSIS 4.0 DAA modules to support full 1.8 GHz DOCSIS 4.0 operation.

As cable operators transition from DOCSIS 3.1 to DOCSIS 4.0 network architectures, an ESD node operating in an HFC network can be reconfigured by simply removing the optical modules, replacing them with 1.8 GHz RxD modules and adjusting operating levels as needed to support 1.8 GHz RF levels. For ESD nodes operating in a DOCSIS 3.1 DAA network, the only change needed would be reconfiguring the attenuation and equalization, again in support of 1.8 GHz RF levels. Additionally, ESD nodes have been engineered with field-swappable, pluggable diplex filters to ensure that any future RF split changes are much easier to implement, a feature which makes the transition from 1.2 GHz splits to 1.8 GHz ESD splits fast, easy and economical.

Another significant time-, cost- and labor-saving feature of CommScope’s 1.8 GHz nodes is a “smart” set-up feature. This feature allows field technicians to setup operating levels and slope or segment an ESD node electronically, either directly from the node via a PC or remotely from the headend after incorporating a CommScope DAA solution. The latter ability is especially attractive, as it eliminates truck rolls if the node needs to be re-segmented or if RF levels need adjustment at any point after the node is installed and activated.

CommScope’s ESD nodes continue the company’s tradition of innovative, cutting-edge solutions for evolving and optimizing traditional HFC networks, while looking forward to the revolutionary capabilities of full DOCSIS 4.0 operation supported by DAA technology. From the headend to the home, CommScope offers a full portfolio of solutions that enable cable operators to take advantage of today’s—and tomorrow’s—network solutions.

CommScope offers a full, end-to-end portfolio of DOCSIS 3.1 and DOCSIS 4.0 products and solutions inside and outside plant operation. For further information about 1.8 GHz ESD nodes, contact your CommScope Sales Representative.

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