Tim, I haven't read anything about the BAY/Lancity news, so no comments.
Regarding C-CORs mini node, it's compatible with any hybrid fiber coax architecture. They already have a larger optical node product that is used by Lucent in their end-to-end HFC system that is sold to SNET (Southern New England Telecomm in Connecticut).
Would the mini fiber node in a passive HFC design support VOD and any other two way telecommunications services? Sure, these services and any thing else that a HFC network supports can be supported by a passive HFC network with mini nodes. 100% telephone subscriber base, analog video, digital broadcast and interactive and cable modem all over an integrated system.
As far as a comparison with FTTC, the mini node concept is a radio frequency based FTTC system that gets fiber to within less than 1000' of the customer. But fiber alone is not the key. With passive HFC, the mini node is the only active device between the customer premises and the central office. There is no big fiber node cabinet loaded with electronics that no one wants in their front or back yard. Its easy to build and maintain. There's no big bucks ATM and line cards to worry about. Sure, BBTK's version of FTTC/Switched Digital Video is great, but it has too many active elements. There is a giant cabinet full of electronics in the neighborhood and another pedestal loaded with active line cards at the curb. And it doesn't provide plain old analog cable TV unless each TV in the house has a digital set top box - no small change. All in all, there is no one right answer. Some people think that all TVs will be digital in a few years anyway and that there will be no need to support analog TV. Well, many people said that copper pairs will disappear in a few years, but they too are a bit over stating the reality. I think HFC architecture can be good if it is designed right from the start. Both HFC and SDV have their advantages and disadvantages. What I look for is a truly integrated full service network that has the fewest active elements in in that does not need a lot of routine maintenance. Something as simple as plain old copper pairs from the central office to the home, but with enough bandwidth for any service that customers want and are willing to pay for. Ray J. |
