Nokia Bell Labs demos 10Gbps symmetrical over DOCSIS 3.1

Federico Guillen

Nokia Bell Labs has achieved what it says is the world’s first 10Gbps symmetrical data speed over a traditional cable access network using DOCSIS 3.1 technology.

The company said that the proof of concept of the technology, dubbed XG-CABLE, demonstrates feasibility of Full Duplex DOCSIS 3.1 laid out by CableLabs.

The XG-CABLE test used point-to-point cable topologies to deliver 10Gbps symmetric data speeds over coaxial cable using 1.2Ghz of spectrum.

According to Nokia Bell Labs, the technology can easily integrate into the CableLabs new Full Duplex DOSCIS® 3.1 concept, which is focused on providing cable operators with technology innovations that can transform the industry.

By using this technology, says the company, operators can effectively use existing HFC cables over the last 200 metres to provide hitherto unrealisable upstream speeds.

Federico Guillén, president of fixed networks, Nokia, said “The XG-CABLE proof of concept is a great example of our ongoing effort and commitment to provide the cable industry with the latest innovations and technology needed to effectively address the growing demand for gigabit services. The proof of concept demonstrates that providing 10 Gbps symmetrical services over HFC networks is a real possibility for operators; it is an important achievement that will define the future capabilities and ultra-broadband services cable providers are able to deliver.”

Robert Howald, vice-president, network architecture at Comcast Cable, said:  “While it is still early in the development of full duplex, Nokia’s XG Cable proof of concept shows that multi-Gigabit symmetrical speeds over HFC, as targeted in the CableLabs FDX initiative, are achievable. As we continue our DOCSIS 3.1 deployments this year, this development further illustrates the power and flexibility of the DOCSIS 3.1 as a tool to deliver next-generation broadband performance.”