Nokia announced tests that showcased that it is possible to achieve 10 Gbps symmetrical data speeds using traditional Hybrid Fiber Coax (HFC) cable plant. Using a prototype technology called XG-CABLE that is based on unique access technology innovations and applications developed by Nokia Bell Labs, the test demonstrates how existing cable systems can be used to deliver symmetrical ultra-broadband access services.
Demonstrating for the first time that the concept is valid and achievable, the XG-CABLE test used point-to-point cable topologies to deliver 10 Gbps symmetric data speeds using 1.2 Ghz of spectrum on coaxial cable.
According to Nokia, achieving ‘symmetrical’ services – where the network can simultaneously support 10 Gbps data speeds for both uploading and downloading content – is a major breakthrough for the cable industry, expecially to meet the need for high-speed upload services such as HD video uploads, real-time gaming, live streaming video and virtual or augmented reality.
Still considered a proof of concept, XG-CABLE can easily integrate into the CableLabs new Full Duplex DOSCIS® 3.1 concept, claims Nokia.
Federico Guillén, President of Fixed Networks, Nokia
The proof of concept demonstrates that providing 10 Gbps symmetrical services over HFC networks is a real possibility for operators; it is an important achievement that will define the future capabilities and ultra-broadband services cable providers are able to deliver.
Dr. Robert Howald, Vice President, Network Architecture at Comcast Cable
While it is still early in the development of full duplex, Nokia’s XG Cable proof of concept shows that multi-Gigabit symmetrical speeds over HFC, as targeted in the CableLabs FDX initiative, are achievable.
