HYBRID FIBRE COAXIAL
Hybrid Fibre Coaxial networks remain a cost effective and highly efficient solution for data and asymmetric video content delivery.
Furthermore existing HFC networks can be readily upgraded with dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) permitting the reduction of homes passed per segment by the multiplexing of different segments on a single fibre using different wavelengths.
This allows scarce and existing fibre to be used efficiently for narrowcast applications like telephony, data networking and VOD. IMPEQ’s dedicated team of HFC specialists need to carefully consider the special properties of not only the operator but their regional networks.
Factors included are:
• Correct scaling of the solution according to the hub size.
• DWDM does not need receivers at the hub sites, but DWDM demultiplexers to split or multiplex the signal for the set-top boxes, cable modems etc. The transmit and receive equipment can be placed into the super hub or head-end and still have the possibility to segment the HFC network.
• Network equipment must be tuned precisely to match link budgets and distance. Maximum distances are also affected by fibre dispersion limitations.
CORE AND ACCESS
Using DWDM based solutions, a wide variety of digital and analogue signals can be integrated over the same transport infrastructure and targeted by wavelength. The network gains the capability to deliver today’s advanced on- demand services while supporting legacy and future technology.