CommScope has unveiled three additions to its Distributed Access Architecture (DAA) portfolio, including its first platforms to support Remote MACPHY. The new hardware includes the EN6000n RD2322 2x2 RxD that can support both Remote PHY and Remote MACPHY deployments, the E6000r High Density (HD) R-PHY Shelf and the OM6-RPD-112, a variant to the company’s E6000n Remote PHY Device that can support 1x2 operation in the OM6000 fiber node.
The RD2322 2x2 RxD can support an evolution from Remote PHY to Remote MACPHY (via software and configuration changes) as well was direct Remote MACPHY deployments, says Kevin Keefe, senior vice president and segment leader, Broadband Networks, at CommScope. The RxD is trialing this quarter; Keefe expects deployments to begin in the first quarter of 2021. The unit pairs well with the company’s NC4000 and Opti Max OM41x0 series of optical nodes.
Keefe says the COVID-19 pandemic could influence the adoption of Remote MACPHY. While operators who have already embarked on a Remote PHY strategy could extend their deployments, those who were still in the lab and field trial phases with potential suppliers likely saw those efforts interrupted due to travel and other restrictions. The pause has helped Remote MACPHY technology development advance to a test and trail ready status as well, Keefe says – which could lead to more operators taking a serious look at it.
Returning to the new products, the E6000r High Density (HD) R-PHY Shelf for 1RU headend and hub sites can hold up to eight 1x2 RPDs. CommScope believes operators will use it to quickly increasing service group density and digital fiber network extension.
Finally, the OM6-RPD-112 RPD supports 1x2 operation for the OM6000 fiber node, doubling the upstream service group density.
CommScope will showcase the new entries as well as the rest of its DAA portfolio as part of this year’s SCTE Cable-Tec Expo Virtual Experience.
