CableLabs Aims to Blend CMAP, CESAR

CableLabs has released an updated technical report to establish a set of consensus requirements for a new device that facilitates the evolution to a converged access network architecture. The technical report is available at http://cablelabs.com/cablemodem/specifications/ccap.html.Called the Converged Cable Access Platform (CCAP), the new device is intended to integrate the functions of broadcast and narrowcast QAM modulators, as well as DOCSIS 3.0 downstream and upstream interfaces. It also includes the option to support passive optical network (PON) termination equipment in the same chassis.Upcoming specifications will include configuration and management technology for service reliability and operational efficiency. Through flexible provisioning of traditional video QAMs to DOCSIS QAMS, the CCAP is intended to enable the efficient transition from traditional video transport to IP transport of managed video services.The technical report and the architecture enabled by the CCAP represent the consensus requirements from Comcast, Cox, Time Warner Cable and other CableLabs members. The CCAP Architecture Technical Report represents a consolidation of the core interface requirements previously referred to as CMAP and CESAR.