Innovative Network Design: Meeting the Challenges of Deploying 1.8–3.0 GHz Networks
September 13th, 2024 by admin
By: Neil Tang, President and CEO, Antronix Inc.
As the demand for faster, more reliable internet grows, operators face increasing pressure to stay ahead of the curve. The migration to higher-frequency networks, such as 1.8 GHz and eventually 3.0 GHz, is essential for future-proofing Hybrid Fiber-Coaxial (HFC) networks. Operators are turning to solutions like 1.8 GHz and Full Duplex DOCSIS (D4.0) to enhance broadband speeds, improve network efficiency, and keep up with the rapid rise in internet traffic. Here’s a look at the driving factors behind these decisions and the key challenges facing the industry.
Operators are Opting for 1.8 GHz or Full Duplex DOCSIS (D4.0)
The competition to provide superior internet service is fiercer than ever. With approximately 85% of U.S. households having access to high-speed internet through coaxial cable, operators are looking for ways to remain competitive in a market where fiber-to-the-home is seen as the gold standard for speed and reliability. However, it is important to note that there are ways to achieve comparable speeds even without fiber or upgrading to D4.0. Moreover, operators with D3.1 networks with high-split systems can offer exceptional speed and reliability while utilizing existing coaxial infrastructure.
This allows for targeted upgrades with lower construction costs, giving operators a competitive edge without the need for complete overhauls. Additionally, D4.0 offers smart network monitoring capabilities and the ability to manage greater bandwidth, making it a practical solution for the near future.
What is next?
While 1.8 GHz is the current focus for many operators there is an option of 3.0 GHz networks. According to ITU data, global internet traffic has grown by an average of 22% annually, and in the U.S., broadband traffic continues to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 16%. Emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and the Metaverse have the potential to dramatically increase data consumption.
The SCTE-developed specifications for 1.8 GHz products take future growth into account, allowing for bandwidth upgrades to 3.0 GHz without needing to replace passives in the network. This forward-thinking approach ensures that operators can scale as needed without costly network overhauls, making 3.0 GHz networks a feasible solution.
Tier 1 MSOs Leading the Charge, but are they?
As expected, Tier 1 Multiple System Operators (MSOs) are at the forefront of this technology shift. These major players are likely to lead the industry in upgrading to 1.8 GHz and D4.0, driven by their ability to scale more quickly and absorb the initial costs of implementation. Over time, economies of scale will enable the broader industry to adopt these technologies and roll out upgrades as necessary. However with new funding and decisions to be made at Tier 2 and 3 operators, may end up adopting the more advanced HFC networks sooner than expected.
No One-Size-Fits-All Network Design
Network design is not a cookie-cutter process. Every system is unique, and the right solution depends on various factors, including whether the network is greenfield or brownfield, and whether it serves urban or rural areas. For greenfield projects, fiber is often the preferred solution, but in brownfield networks, upgrading the existing HFC infrastructure with a 1.8 GHz solution is often the most cost-effective approach. Each decision must consider the existing topology and the specific needs of the operator and its customers.
Key Network Design Considerations for Vendors Like Antronix
When designing networks to support 1.8 GHz and beyond, several key factors must be considered:
- Tilt:
Coaxial cable experiences more signal loss at higher frequencies, such as 1.8 GHz. This means line amplifiers need more power to boost the signal. Engineers must address tilt, or the uneven signal response across frequencies, to ensure optimal performance. Various equalization solutions are available to address this concern.
- Diplex Splits:
As operators move to more upstream bandwidth, various diplex splits are available in FDD networks. The decision to migrate from a 5-42 MHz upstream band to a higher bandwidth upstream like mid split, high split or ultra-high split will take away valuable bandwidth previously allocated to the downstream. Upgrading to 1.8 GHz allows for ultra-high capacity for both the upstream and downstream.
- Booster Amps:
Due to the higher signal loss at 1.8 GHz, booster amplifiers may be needed in longer spans to provide nominal gain. The challenge is that line amplifiers are constrained by the maximum power output of current silicon technology, making booster amps a critical part of the network solution.
Multi-Taps and Plug-In Design Changes
When booster amplifiers are introduced, the multi-taps placed after them must be carefully selected to ensure that signal levels are maintained at the home. Multi-taps come with customizable plug-in conditioning filters that can optimize the frequency response and manage tilt, making them essential for fine-tuning network performance.
Balancing Upfront and Deferred Costs
For operators looking to make network upgrades, there’s always a balance between upfront costs and deferred costs. Upgrading HFC networks can be more economical than overhauling existing infrastructure, depending on the operator’s long-term rollout strategy. Targeted upgrades using 1.8 GHz or D4.0 solutions allow for a phased approach, spreading costs over time while delivering immediate performance benefits. Operators must weigh the cost of maintaining legacy infrastructure against the long-term benefits of future-proofing their networks.
How Antronix is Addressing Network Design Challenges
At Antronix, we are developing solutions that directly address the challenges of deploying 1.8 GHz and preparing for future upgrades. With our partners at Teleste Intercept, our portfolio, includes amplifiers, multi-taps, and equalizers, all of which are designed with flexibility and scalability in mind, ensuring that operators can seamlessly transition to higher frequencies while maintaining network performance and reliability.
What to Expect at SCTE Tech Expo 2024
Looking ahead, SCTE Tech Expo 2024 will undoubtedly highlight many of these themes. We expect to see a continued focus on future-proofing networks, leveraging new technologies, and addressing the unique challenges of higher-frequency deployments. The event will be an opportunity to share insights, explore innovative solutions, and prepare for the next wave of network evolution. Please come see us at booth #909.
In conclusion, deploying 1.8–3.0 GHz networks presents both challenges and opportunities for operators. With the right strategies, partnerships, and technologies, these upgrades will position the industry to meet the demands of tomorrow’s digital landscape, all while maintaining the flexibility to grow as new technologies emerge.
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