SCTE Standards has announced the inauguration of the SCTE Standards Smart Amplifier project, an effort to create standards for smart amplifier communications. Doug Jones, principal architect at CableLabs, will chair the group charged with the task.
The standards will cover communications with next-generation amplifiers for all DOCSIS networks, such as standalone amplifiers connected only by coaxial cable and launch amplifiers inside node housings, including those based on upcoming DOCSIS 4.0 FDD and FDX technologies. Applications covered by the standard also will include all required monitoring and control communications with an amplifier, whether accessed over the HFC control plane or locally via direct wired or wireless connection.
Service providers backing the effort include Charter Communications, Inc., Comcast Cable, Cox Communications, Inc., and Shaw Communications. A significant number of technology suppliers will be involved as well, including:
- Amphenol Broadband Solutions
- Antronix, Inc.
- Applied Optoelectronics, Inc.
- ATX
- Belden Inc.
- Broadcom Limited
- CableLabs
- CommScope, Inc.
- Electroline Equipment Inc.
- Qorvo
- Technetix
- Teleste Intercept
- Vecima Networks.
