Cable operators Comcast and Charter Communications are both exploring new Distributed Access Architecture (DAA) technologies that will allow them to flexibly deploy fiber using the same nodes and management systems as their cable assets. comcast took a big step toward realizing this vision, joining Harmonic and others to touting a virtual Broadband Network Gateway (vBNG) trial that successfully connected live fiber customers in Denver.
The trial includes three main components: the aforementioned vBNG, the Remote OLT (R-OLT) and Comcast's virtualized Cable Modem Technology System (vCMTS) platform, called Cable OS. The R-OLT is located in the node and allows operators to plug 10G EPON fiber connections into the same infrastructure used for cable introduction. vBNG is a virtualized network feature deployed in vCMTS.
It is well known that Comcast has already deployed fiber for end users in the network. So why is this important?
Well, Elad Nafshi, executive vice president and chief network officer at Comcast Cable, said that previously, fiber was deployed using older radio frequency over glass (RFOG) and OLT technologies. Using the new vBNG and R-OLT technologies connected to its vCMTS will allow it to consolidate the management of cable and fiber assets into one system.
"This seamless management system enables and empowers us to deliver multi-gigabit symmetric services across our network, regardless of the type of line connecting our customers," he explained.
Nafshi added that Comcast decided to launch a field customer trial of R-OLT and vBNG technologies because it felt they were mature enough to meet its performance and quality standards.
"The goal of the live subscriber trial is to validate the platform's performance under realistic conditions and verify our operational readiness to install, service and support our customers. We are very pleased with the results to date," he said, adding that the operator now looks forward to expanding the deployment of the technology.
Although Comcast did not provide an exact date, it said the trial is taking place in late 2022. nafshi named Harmonic as one of "several companies" participating in the test, and Harmonic is working with the carrier to develop its vCMTS.
The mention of Harmonic is notable because Comcast alone drove nearly half of the provider's revenue in the fourth quarter of 2022. In addition to vCMTS, Jeff Heynen, vice president of Dell'Oro Group, recently told Fierce Harmonic that it also provides Remote-PHY hardware to Comcast.
Cable giant Charter has also said it plans to deploy R-OLT technology for on-demand fiber deployment, but has not yet announced any field trials.
