Aurora Networks unveils full-spectrum transmitters for broadcast and narrowcast services
OCTOBER 21, 2010 -- Aurora Networks, Inc. has introduced its AT3545G series full-spectrum transmitters that are designed to enable a cable network’s evolution to full QAM capabilities, including a seamless migration to future Converged Multiservice Access Platform (CMAP) deployment.
CMAP is a component of the next-generation access architecture cable operators are developing to consolidate technologies delivering narrowcast services into a single platform. The CMAP concept aims to create a converged platform to save headend space, reduce energy consumption, and cut the cost of delivering advanced services to customers.
Elements of the new transmitter series are optimized for deployment in two diverse applications. The first version, the AT3545G-xx-1-AS series C-Band DWDM transmitter, supports light (up to 260 MHz) analog channel loading plus QAM loading up to 1 GHz for delivering digital services. This transmitter also supports the CMAP initiative.
The second version of the transmitter, the AT3545G-xx-2-AS, is optimized for full analog channel loading up to 550 MHz along with QAM channel loading up to 1 GHz. This unit is optimized for node segmentation -- a technique to significantly increase bandwidth without additional fiber construction.
Other AT3545G details Aurora Networks highlights include:
- The AT3545G transmitters incorporate a user-selectable RF input gain technology that permits lower RF input levels. As cable operators further segment their networks, they may encounter an increased amount of loss in their RF management network that is used to route more QAM channels to new smaller service areas. The RF input gain technology contained within the AT3545G enables cable operators to compensate for that signal loss without having to purchase shelves of space-consuming RF amplifiers.
- These transmitters enable the transmission of full spectrum (both analog and QAM) channel loading over 50 km distances. For full spectrum QAM-only loading, the reach may top 60 km. Both applications support up to 16 wavelengths per fiber.
- As a narrowcast transmitter, the unit will support more than 120 QAMs over 40 wavelengths per fiber.
- The compact size of the AT3545G series transmitters reduces rack space requirements within headends and hubs.